2. Introduction Midwives deliver babies in a variety of settings. The three main places they work are in hospitals, in birthing centers, and in homes. There are advantages and disadvantages to each and every couple must decide, with their midwife, what is the best option for themselves.
3. Background From ancient times women have given birth in places other than hospitals. “Before 1900 giving birth in a hospital was a rare exception” (Varney, 535). Currently, in America giving birth outside of the hospital are the exception. However, since midwives can work in both settings, you can still have one attend your birth wherever you choose.
4. Hospital Birth with a Midwife Since the year 1970 99% of American births took place in hospitals (Varney).
5. Birthing Center Birth with a Midwife There are government regulations for birth centers, though these do not mean that all birth centers are alike. They vary in the amount of technology used, association with hospitals, and how they are run, not to mention amenities and specific services offered. (Varney)
6. Home Birth with a Midwife This setting provides the couple with a great deal of control over their environment and the birth process. It is important to consider the pros and cons of an at home birth. This location is not the best fit for every couple/birth.
7. Home Birth with a MidwifeCouples should consider these factors when deciding if a home birth is right for them Normality of pregnancy Previous hospital experience Availability of alternatives both in and out of hospital Availiability of their preferred health care provider in different birth settings Safety for the woman in out of the hospital Safety for the baby in and out of the hospital The likelihood that they will be able to get what they want in another setting (hospital or out of-hospital birth center) Amount of control of the situation they perceive they will have Degree of participatory decision making they perceived they will have Smells, noise, and cleanliness of the setting Their desire to be at home in familiar surroundings The trust they both have in the woman’s body (Varney, 539-540)
8. Reference List Varney, H., (1997). Varney's Midwifery. Sadbury, Massachusetts: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
