Home births and other non-hospital births account for as many as 1.5% of births in the U.S. While these births are safely practiced in many homes across the country, there is still a level of stigma surrounding this topic. Below are three common home birth myths debunked and why you should feel empowered to choose for yourself. 

Untruths Regarding Home Births

1. Home Birth Isn’t Safe

Although many families worry that moms who choose home birth won’t be able to safely deliver their baby, they still receive the same level of care at home as women do in the hospital. Medical professionals like midwives and nurse practitioners are trained to handle a variety of different complications that can occur during home birthing. In fact, home births have even been shown to have lower rates of medical intervention than low-risk hospital births in the U.S., showing just how careful birthing coaches, doulas, and midwives are. 

2. Your Insurance Won’t Cover Home Birth Costs

Although many people assume that insurance coverage doesn’t apply to home births, every policy is different. The best way to find out if your insurance plan covers home births is by contacting your provider and discussing the details of your plan. In some instances, your normal insurance coverage will extend to maternity and birthing plans offered by midwives. 

3. Midwives Can’t Help With Pain Relief 

While an epidural isn’t a part of the home birthing plan, professionals can offer several pain relief techniques, including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, hydrotherapy, and breathing exercises. If you are nervous about being in pain, you can talk to your doctor to get a prescription for medications to take during the delivery at home. 

If you’re thinking about exploring home birth, turn to the professionals at Home Birth with Love. For nearly 18 years, this team of certified midwives, nurse practitioners, and nurses have been helping moms deliver in the comfort of their own homes safely and peacefully. To learn more about their high-quality, personalized service, visit their website or give their team a call at (845) 641-5058.