Busting Myths About Out of Hospital Births: What You Need to Know"

As a birth professional, I've often encountered the misperception that midwives who don't work in hospitals are less qualified or ill-equipped to handle births. Midwives - licensed midwives, home birth midwives, certified professional midwives – are trained professionals who go through rigorous schooling and apprenticeships before they ever step foot at your doorstep to assist in your birthing journey.

Let's talk about the three major misconceptions about home births and how understanding the true capabilities of these amazing women can empower pregnant families.

First, there's this notion that home births are dangerous. That couldn't be further from the truth. Midwives typically arrive prepared for every situation within their scope of care. They come armed with oxygen for emergencies, fluids for hydration and Pitocin to aid with bleeding management if necessary. And yes, many also carry herbs and tinctures as alternative remedies for  a more holistic approach. 

Second, there's an assumption that these women aren't equipped with essential medical knowledge like CPR among others – another falsehood! In fact, their extensive training ensures they're well versed in emergency procedures as well as holistic practices making them an invaluable asset during your birthing journey. Midwives are trained in CPR and Neonatal Resuscitation and understand normal birth so that if the need to transport arises it can usually be done with grace.

Finally, let’s address the misconception that these women don’t know what they’re doing because they choose not to operate within traditional hospital settings. In reality, their choice reflects a commitment to offering personalized care in comfortable environments where birthing parents feel safer and more comfortable. 

Having a trained professional provide support throughout pregnancy is invaluable; it makes you feel confident knowing you're making informed decisions about your body and baby’s health based on expert advice tailored specifically for you! Visits with midwives tend to last between 30-120 minutes depending on what needs to be covered in comparison to 15 minutes in more allopathic settings.

Birthing at home or in a birth center can feel scary because it is unfamiliar and frankly our culture has not helped. After 16 years as a birth worker I have seen births in all settings and the most laid back is at home. If that is too much you can consider concurrent care or having a montrice where you are still seeing your OB and planning a hospital birth but most of your visits are with a midwife; many families make this choice for various reasons and love it! Just know you have options and talking to a midwife will at least give you more information about what is available to you.