Childbirth

Birthing Choices - Locations

Giving birth in a hospital is not the only setting to choose from. The approaching of the 21st century brought different alternatives for different activities and areas of the human knowledge, including pregnancy and the possibility to give birth in a more natural setting. There are however other choices, all of them with advantages and disadvantages.

If you have not decided yet, or if you want to change your mind, analyze every option making a careful, thought out decision, based on considerations other than your insurance coverage or personal finances. Consider your partners opinion as well, and the emotional reason you both may have chosen one option over another, even deciding different options for different births in the future.

Hospitals are the most commonly chosen setting, particularly when your physician is an obstetrician, gynecologist or family practitioner, who will attend and provide you with care during your stay to give birth, although the increasing number of midwives attending at hospital settings gives you another option for your labor and delivery.

If you are concerned about technology and professionals backing up childbirth, this is the option that will more likely make you feel more comfortable and relaxed, in case something could go wrong during delivery. However, it is advisable to research before selecting a hospital and then take a tour before your due date to learn more about laboring techniques, staff in the delivery room, policies and guidelines, newborn procedures and video camera facilities.

Following hospitals, birthing centers are the second option for many pregnant women since the first birthing center was opened in the United States , back in 1974. The goal of these centers is to offer a "homelike" setting but closer to hospital facilities in case of any complications. It is more likely to receive attention from certified midwives, who are often the sole care providers at a birthing center.

Some birthing centers are located inside hospitals, where an obstetrician can also make deliveries. The difference with the hospital setting is that birthing centers have fewer guidelines and restrictions to follow, allowing you to choose laboring decisions. These centers are recommended for low risk pregnancies and for women who want to give birth with little interventions.

Home birth is the older method and ironically, the most popular during recent years. Centuries long ago, women had their babies in their home, and they keep having them today. Many women feel more relaxed giving birth in their own environment, but this comfort carries extra responsibilities, including prenatal education for the couple.

You need to know what to do if a problem arises, consenting to be transported to the hospital in case of a complication although this delivery is usually assisted by a midwife. Only go for this option if you have a low risk pregnancy with no labor complications expected.