The decision about where to give birth is an important one. Many moms just assume that the hospital is the right place for them to give birth. Most of the moms we encounter who are considering a homebirth are moms who have given birth before. For many first-time moms, given all of the unknowns they have about pregnancy and birthing, a homebirth just isn’t on their list of places they’d consider giving birth. Of course, we do know some first-time moms who are considering a homebirth. Everyone is different and you need to think about which environments could work for you. You want a place where you will safe and comfortable.
If a homebirth is something you are considering there are some helpful people and resources in our area. The website, www.nchomebirth.com has lots of information about planning a homebirth in North Carolina. You can also find information about nurse-midwives at the American College of Nurse-Midwives, North Carolina Chapter. For out-of-hospital specific information about nurse-midwives, go to this page on the American College of Nurse-Midwives website.
You may also enjoy talking with Nancy Harman, a midwife and registered nurse and founder of Birthwise of Central NC, LLC. Birthwise of Central NC offers prenatal care, homebirth, postpartum care and family planning services. Get more information about Nancy at the following websites:
There’s also a local Meetup group, Homebirth Meetup in Triad Area, that focuses on homebirth. This group currently has 52 members and is still really trying to get off of the ground. Even though the group is still getting going, there is some helpful information on the site including recommendations for midwives and local physicians who are supportive of homebirth.
You may also enjoy this article written by a former labor and delivery nurse about her thoughts on birthing and routine practices during birthing. She covers topics such as food restrictions, IV use, fetal heart monitors, etc. She has chosen to give birth at home six times. Be sure to click the “next” link on the top left portion of the page to move through the article.
Filed under: All, Birthing Care Provider & Location, Class 4, Pregnancy | Tagged: Birthwise NC, Class 4, Homebirth, Nancy Harman, NC Homebirth, Pregnancy
[...] see posts, “Birthing Environment – Hospital, Birth Center and at Home” and “Considering a Homebirth?” for more [...]
I am happy to announce that Heather, my daughter, stayed focused in her HypnoBirthing as she birthed James Kiran Hogan on 10-16-08. He was born in the comfort of their home. Daddy Trey was a great support as we witnessed this birth on the most beautiful October day. I also want to say thank you to Nancy Harmon, CNM for her skill and expertise.