Homebirth
Wednesday, August 19th, 2009I know some people don’t understand, get freaked out, or simply don’t like the idea of homebirths.
It is definitely not for everyone.
And certain segments of the medical profession have done a great job of scaremongering by suggesting that homebirths are unsafe and that people who choose homebirths are selfish and stupid.
But it is a legitimate choice for women with safe pregnancies who want to birth with the support of their own midwife, and in their own environment.
I had a homebirth with my son (my second birth), and it was the most magical, wonderfully empowering, perfect birth.
And if I wanted more children (which I don’t!) then I would definitely want the option of having another homebirth.
But unfortunately, legislation is afoot that will effectively make homebirths illegal.
For a long time private practicing midwives haven’t been able to access professional indemnity insurance so most have been working without insurance.
But from 1st of July 2010, private practicing midwives can be fined $30,000 for practicing without insurance.
This effectively outlaws homebirth unless it is attached to a hospital program. Unfortunately, few hospital programs support homebirths.
For anyone convinced that every woman has the right to choose how and where she births, this new legislation is antiquated.
Elle McPherson said this about women’s right to choose as published on the Homebirth Australia website:
I enjoyed giving birth to my second son in a birth pool. My birthing room was warm and candlelit and I was lovingly supported by my birthing team. This made me feel emotionally safe as I birthed my baby gently.
I would love Australian women to enjoy a water birth just as I did. I am surprised to hear that less than 5% of Australian women can choose warm water immersion for pain relief and for birth!
I strongly recommend that the medical system in Australia give women the choice to be able to use a warm water pool during labour, for deep relaxation and giving birth.
I support Homebirth Australia’s work to enable all Australian women to choose where and with whom they share their intimate experience of birth.
If you believe every woman has the right to birth their baby their way, then you can do the following:
Sign the petition to save private midwifery.
Write to your local member of parliament or Nicola Roxon, the federal health minister.
Attend the Mother of all rallies in Canberra on Monday 7th of September, 11.30am.
or if you can’t get to Canberra, buy a virtual rally ticket and show your support.
Read more about homebirth at Homebirth Australia’s website.
And spread the word to anyone who will listen!
Homebirths should be a legitimate choice and not a crime.
By Jodie Benveniste, director of Parent Wellbeing.



