homebirth is on the table..tips?

lovin life23

I never thought my husband would go for a home birth...he recently said it was up to me...I was SHOCKED...I am still learning about homebirth and med-free birth....I am new to it all but interested...any tips for a FTM thinking about homebirth/med free birth?

 I have a list of Q's for when we interview midwives...just wondering if you all had any tips for homebirths or hospital medfree births? Thanks!

ps

at the hospital I could potentially deliver at=no birthing tubs, birthing center etc.

 

Jcrab

Your best chance for a medication free low intervention birth is in the environment that makes you feel the safest / most comfortable. I just had a HBAC and labor was so easy, partly because I felt secure being at home. Hypnobirthing classes and reading Ina May Gaskin's books helped as well. Definitely meet with MW's and discuss your options. I learned a ton following the posts on this board as well.

naturalarmygirl

I had two homebirths, a third will be happening. LOVED it. Interview your midwives and see who best matches your personality. Mine was patient, kind, and grounded, and I just adored her. I had a long labor with my first, 38 hours, unmedicated, AND it was incredible. I'd do some reading for sure, Jcrab's suggestion is good, also for more support (but a little terrifying about hospital births) pick up The Silent Knife. Surround yourself with the people who make you feel most comfortable. Good luck, and if you have questions along the way, ping me!

Noethola

Definitely read (or watch) all you can. The Business of Bein Born is a good documentary. Agree with the other suggestions of PPs. Its good to be as educated as possible. It is fantastic that your husband is on board! But there will be a lot of people that will question as well. Know your stats, or just dont share that you are birthing at home. Ina May's book Birth Matters is great from a medical stat standpoint and her book Ina Mays Guide to Childbirth is helpful to prepare yourself and your DH.

Lurk through several pages of this board to read up on things as well. :-)

Once you find the right midwife, your job isnt done though it eases considerably. Keep reading all you can about relaxation methods and maybe even birthing classes that you might find helpful. Its worth being well prepared (even if you forget all the tips and let your body take over!)

HRP22

A tip I have is to not tell anybody that you are doing a home birth.

Just say your backup hospital when they ask where you are delivering.  Trust me, people get all side eyed and in your face about it.