Author: Freeze, Rixa Ann Spencer

Source: Expert Review of Obstretrics and Gynecology, Volume 5, Number 3, May 2010 , pp. 283-299(17)

Publisher: Expert Reviews

Abstract:

Home birth is highly controversial and divisive. Medical organizations oppose the practice, while other maternity-related organizations (nursing, midwifery, public health, consumer advocacy, doula and childbirth education) uphold home birth as a safe, reasonable choice for healthy pregnant women. Individual physicians and midwives have more complex perspectives on home birth than their professional organizations. Women choose home birth primarily for safety. In addition, they also have had negative hospital experiences, desire low intervention rates, trust birth and want a familiar, safe environment. Public opinion centers on four main issues: safety, choice, women's experiences and critiques of maternity care. Ironically, medical opposition to home birth compromises safety. After reviewing current attitudes towards and research about home birth, this article discusses how discarding the status quo of hostility and mutual distrust in favor of a pragmatic, autonomy-based approach that fosters communication and respect would make home birth a safer choice.

Keywords: home birth; midwifery; patient transfer; pregnancy; safety; United States

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1586/eog.10.22

Affiliations: 1: 415 W. Main St., Crawfordsville, IN 47933, USA., Email: rixa.freeze@gmail.com

Publication date: 2010-05-01

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• Expert Review of Obstetircs and Gynecology provides a unique forum for critical and cutting-edge assessments in this diverse therapeutic area. With rigorous editorial policies, this timely publication is dedicated to complete and comprehensive coverage of key issues in women's healthcare.
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