When you’re pregnant, you have many decisions to make about the birthing experience you want to have. One of your most important choices is whether to give birth in a hospital or elsewhere. Although a growing number of women are choosing to have their babies at home, the vast majority still opt for hospital births, for several reasons. 

Why You Should Have Your Baby in a Hospital

1. It’s Safer

Although having a baby is one of the most natural experiences in the world and most women deliver without any trouble, there is always a risk for unforeseen complications. When you give birth at home and something goes wrong with you or the baby, you will need to wait for emergency services to arrive with help, whereas in the hospital, you have immediate access to doctors, nurses, and equipment that could potentially save your lives. 

2. You Have Complications

While pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or placenta problems don't always cause issues during delivery, it’s best to have the correct equipment on hand in case something does go wrong. For example, placenta problems can cause hemorrhaging, which needs to be addressed immediately. When you’re in the hospital, your providers can monitor and respond to complications quickly.

3. You Want Pain Relief

Even if you are convinced that you want to give birth without pain relief, matters can change rapidly during labor. If you’re at home and you change your mind and want an epidural, you won’t be able to have one. In a hospital, the providers can be flexible to your needs, whereas at home you won’t have as many options. 

4. You Have Insurance

Most health insurance plans cover most, if not all, hospital birth services. They don’t, however, typically cover all the costs associated with a home birth, such as a midwife or emergency services. As a result, the out-of-pocket expenses of an “affordable” home birth might be more than the alternative. 

If you are pregnant and considering your options, look to Brownfield Regional Medical Center in Terry County, TX, for all of your labor and delivery needs. Serving families in Terry County for over 50 years, this hospital has the advanced technology and compassionate providers you need to deliver a healthy baby. Visit their website to learn more about their women’s health services. Call (806) 637-3551 to schedule a facility tour.