Alternatives to Giving Birth at the Hospital
If your due date is approaching, it is important that you and your partner come up with a birth plan based on your needs. Here are some great options for where and how to give birth that are different than the traditional hospital birth.
Home Birth
Home births are a great option for low risk pregnancies, as well as for mothers who want to complete this life changing event in the comfort of their own home. Familiar surroundings can drastically reduce anxiety. Home births can also save money and the stress of transport to and from the hospital. However, if you want to do a home birth, it is vital to have a contingency plan in case there is an emergency that requires medical intervention.
Birth Center
Sometimes it is better for your situation to have access to a midwife at a birth center or other place that is specifically designed for new mothers. To find a birth center in your area, use a simple internet search, such as “tampa bay birth center.” This way, you can access reviews of the different establishments that are close to you and see which one fits you and your partner’s needs the best.
Water Birth
A water birth involves the mother sitting in a pool or bathtub, and can sometimes be a more comfortable way of bringing your baby into the world. Water birth has also been shown to speed up labor and lower the pain of contractions, which can be a major stressor during the labor process. Spending any amount of time in the water is beneficial for the process, and it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor, midwife, or doula about incorporating it into your birthing plan.
No matter what option you choose for giving birth, you are sure to find a solution that best fits your wishes and requirements.