This page provides information on how to give birth at home. Having a home birth plan will help ensure that your delivery at home will go smoothly.http://www.birthingnaturally.net/homebirth/planning.html Giving birth at home is not recommended if you are diabetic and have high blood pressure.http://www.americanpregnancy.org/labornbirth/homebirth.html

Giving birth is an intimate experience and some women would rather bring their new baby into the world in the comfort of their home instead of in a sterile hospital environment. A home birth should be planned well in advance.

In order to ensure your safety and the safety of your baby, you should have an experienced OBGYN or midwife in attendance at your home birth. In the case of an emergency or unforeseen complications, it is important to have a qualified and knowledgeable professional ready to step in and help.http://www.babycenter.com/0_planned-home-birth_168.bc?page=2 Midwives (or a supportive doctor) can also help you plan your home birth.

• Home Birth Kit that includes tools for delivery (scissors, alcohol wipes, cotton balls, etc)
• A birthing tub if you decide to use one
• Clothes for mom and baby
• Flashlight
• Bowl for placenta
• Sanitary napkins

• Linens & Cleaning Supplies

1. Sheets (2 sets)
2. Protective cover for mattress
3. Wash cloths
4. Receiving blankets
5. Towels
6. Paper towels

• Relaxation Tools and Pain Relief

1. Hot compresses
2. Music
3. Aromatherapy/ essential oils
4. A Birthing ball

• Food and Drinks

1. Light snacks
2. Easy to prepare foods
3. Juices
4. Ice

• A camera
• Video camera

Having a home child birth does not need to be an elaborate production, but you do want to make sure that you have everything ready for the big day. You will need to prepare your bed for childbirth (or teach your partner how it needs to be done) and make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand.

• Prepare Your Bed For Child Birth

1. Remove comforters or bedspreads
2. Cover your mattress with a protective wrap (painters drop cloth or a thin shower curtain liner will work)
3. Put a clean set of sheets over the protective covering (use old sheets in case you need to throw them out)
4. Have another sheet set ready to go for after the baby is delivered

You will need to have a backup plan in case you need to be transferred to a hospital. A bag should be prepared in advance, it should contain your birthing plan (preferences regarding medication etc.), medical insurance information, clothing, a camera and personal hygiene items.