Don't Be Fooled By The Headlines

Media outlets all over America reported last week that home births have risen a whopping 20% in recent years. Looking at that number a little more closely: The number of home births nationwide did rise 20 percent from 2004 through 2008. But, even with the increase, there were just 28,357 home births in 2008, less than 1 percent of the 4.2 million births in the United States that year. 

Because there is an increased risk of life threatening problems associated with home births it is crucial to have a full and honest discussion with your OB/GYN. Most women who were cited in the study opted for home birth because they felt they needed more input into their own birthing process; like how to lower their chances of a cesarean birth.

Communication is the key to a successful patient/doctor relationship. Your personal physician at The Women's Clinic will listen to your concerns and work with you to aim toward the kind of birth experience you want. While no one can guarantee a specific outcome, everyone feels better when you know that you and your physician are on the same page.