Summary: The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) support home birth for women with uncomplicated pregnancies. There is no reason why home birth should not be offered to women at low risk of complications and it may confer considerable benefits for them and their families. There is ample evidence showing that labouring at home increases a woman’s likelihood of a birth that is both satisfying and safe, with implications for her health and that of her baby.1–3
Home Births - RCOG and RCM Joint Statement No.2
A recent statement on Home Birth from Great Britain’s Royal College of Midwives. Contrast this statement with ACOG’s warnings of the dangers of birth outside of the hospital. Is there something significantly different about American women that makes birth more risky on this side of the pond?
