Birthing By Heart

Sometimes, for any reason, a homebirth may end up as a hospital transfer. While this is statistically unlikely, if this turns out to be your birth - there are a few things you can do to prepare emotionally, and intellectually for the event.

• Have a supportive, and understanding birth team.
• Hire an independant midwive, who will act as an advocate for your wishes.
• Have a “Just in case” birth plan - with clear details of what you do and don’t wish.
• Insist upon full explanations and disclosure from hospital doctors and midwives.
• Know your rights, and be well informed.

In the event of a medical emergency, it’s unlikely there will be time for medical staff to give you indepth explanations - this is where an independent midwife can be a great advocate, and source of information. They’ll remain by your side, and support you through your birth.

It’s a good idea, to have a “just in case plan” communicated between you and  your birth team, should a hospital transfer be necessary.  If you don’t need it, you can always throw it out!

In the event that you have a caesarian section - it’s important to acknowledge your achievements as a birthing mother. A caesarian is not a failure. And they can be a life saving procedure both for mother and baby.  Acknowledging that you need more time to heal both emotionally and physically, is very important.

Hospitals and doctors, may not recognise the need for emotional healing - so be sure to take the time for your self, and seek out people who can help and support you. An independent midwife, doula, and your partner may provide an invaluable support network. Don’t bottle up emotions, communicate your feelings, and remember they’re real, and valid - and you ARE allowed to feel them.

No matter how you birth, there are many things you can do to ensure your child’s arrival in this world are as gentle as possible, even in a hospital birth. Consider:

• Kangaroo care, lots of skin to skin contact, right from birth. (Even if this is with your partner)
• Establish breastfeeding - with assistance if you need it.
• Insist on rooming in.
• Demand feed - don’t go by routines. You do NOT need to offer formula, as a supplemental feed, even if your baby is premature. Breastmilk is still the best baby food.
• Check out as soon as you feel able to - and if your child is healthy

Have your birth support team advocate you - a good midwife will help you insist upon your wishes, and explain anything you don’t understand. Remember, nothing can be done without your consent, and you have the right to make an informed decision.