Why a planned home birth? - Deborah's birth story
3 and a half years ago under the care of the NHS, I received regular visits from the same midwife & had an uncomplicated pregnancy, until 2 weeks prior to the due date. A premature rupture of membranes occurred. With a supportive midwife (Chrissy) my husband & I decided that we would let the baby arrive naturally, not accepting the standard practice of being induced within a timeframe.
Carefully monitoring the fetal movements & heartbeat we patiently (or not so patiently) waited. I went for reflexology, massage, long walks trying to encourage the onset of labour all to no avail. Finally after 7 days, I went into labour naturally at home, (however the NHS allow holidays & Chrissy was away) those now offering care were keen for me to be in the comfort of a ‘sterile hospital room’ for the birth & I felt pressured to follow the standard of practice. Within 20 minutes of arriving at hospital a healthy 7.12oz baby boy was born during a mobile delivery.
With the discovery in 2008 that I was pregnant, I knew that I wanted a home birth if possible. Knowing that Chrissy was now working independently, we got in contact. Having someone to listen & explain all available options, without the constraint & prejudice of the ‘institutionalization of the standard practice’ was important.
Regular visits by the same midwife, set at mutually convenient times, unbiased discussion of options & reassurance were part of every conversation. You were taking to someone who knew your name, didn’t have to read the notes of the last team member to know what was happening & was working with your plans. That was reassuring.
A water birth was discussed. While our home was being built, we were living in temporary accommodation, yet there was just enough room for the pool!
Chrissy would respond quickly to any message and even quicker when delivery was imminent. Chrissy arrived & within a couple of hours of labour our 9.14oz baby girl arrived, with no complications or problems. Being at home we could be together as a family from the very beginning, I could nurse our new arrival & cuddle our son at the same time, helping them to establish a relationship (see attached picture).
The following days were relaxed & comfortable, visitors could come on our schedule & yes the support of the same midwife continued. I am sure the relaxed birth & environment has contributed to the contented, peaceful baby we are enjoying getting to know.
Kind Regards
Deborah