A common misconception that has been increasingly gaining ground is that delivering a child at home is equivalent to a ‘natural’delivery.
Before I go on, let me first explain what a ‘natural’ delivery means. Vaginal birth can be of two forms: One is a ‘normal’ delivery wherein the woman is admitted to the hospital at the time of her delivery andpainkillers or medicines to induce labour may be given to reduce the discomfort and speed up the childbirth process. In ‘natural’ birthing, we avoid the use of painkillers or labour-inducing medicines. Weallow the body’s innate, natural intelligence to wait for the woman to go into labour on her own. Being at home is not a prerequisite for a natural delivery – you can undergo a natural delivery even in a hospital (if it is provided for).
So, which option should you choose? I have addressed some common questions below – to give you some food for thought:
My grandmother delivered her child at home. Why can’t I do the same – and not go to a hospital?
Over the years, our environment has seen its fair share of changes. Compared to yesteryear, we have several gadgets and machines available for use – which have made our lives more comfortable and aided productivity. Our bodies have also changed in line with these developments.
When we look back, our grandmothers had a more physically active lifestyle, given that a lot of the housework was done manually. So, their bodies were attuned to labour at the time of delivery. Today, given the reliance on gadgets and the move to working in offices,women’s bodies and their average gestational experience has changed significantly – more so, in the last couple of years due to the extended lockdowns. With an increase in sedentary lifestyles, imbalanced diets andlack of physical activity, we are also seeing a rise in cases of high blood pressure and gestational diabetes. All of this makes the presence and guidance of a health professional during labour all the more necessary.
There is another important aspect to look into. Women in previous decades had fewer choices when it came to hospital services. Moreover, the field of medicine was not as technologically advanced as it is today. Hence, they experienced higherrates of maternal and infant deaths back then. Medical advances, improved access, better equipped medical facilities and the continued commitment of doctors to the wellbeing of the mothers and babies has helped us curb the maternal mortality rate.
I am very comfortable at home – can I expect the same comfort when I deliver in a hospital?
As they say, the home is where the heart is! While we cannot recreate a home in our hospital delivery room, there are some measures we take to ensure that the mother-to-be is well cared for.
For one, the delivery team is on hand to keep an eye on the mother-to-be and help address her needs – especially when it comes to eating and drinking (more on this in the following answer).
Secondly, at BloomLife Hospital, we encourage husbands to be present and involved during the birthing process. The husband’s presence helps thewomen to feelstronger and more positive – and acts as a mood booster. Also, when the couple embarks on this important step in their parenting journey together, the bond between them as a couple, and with their newborn(s) as parents, is strengthened. With all health and safety concerns being taken care of by the doctors and delivery team, the husband can focus fully on supporting the woman through the birthing process.
If I am at home, I can walk around and eat or drink as I want. Will this the freedom be taken away in a hospital?
While it is true that there are some restrictions placed on the mother-to-be’s movement and eating / drinking during labour, it is important to remember they are followed with the goal of ensuring the highest safety and health of the mother and baby.
If a woman were to eat or drink more than the prescribed amount, there is a chance of her vomiting or choking during delivery – which could prove dangerous for mum and baby. On the other hand, some women feel uncomfortable eating or drinking right before going into labour. This may result in low energy levels and dehydration, and it is vital that a health professional be there to supply the required nutrients intravenously.
Pregnancy and birthing are big decisions, and I urge everyone to look into all options in detail before making a choice. If you have any other questions or concerns, reach to us. We are just as eager for you to have a safe, fulfilling pregnancy and delivery experience!
