Can You Have a Homebirth in Australia?

Women’s Business

Traditionally homebirth in Australia was considered ‘women’s business’ and men were kept well away. Things have changed considerably over the past hundred years or so, and what was once an event that required women’s expertise has been largely overtaken by men. Birthing has become medicalised and shifted into the hospital setting.

Photo by DICSON on Unsplash

There are various ways to view the medicalisation of childbirth, from either a medical, political or feminist stance but those arguments are not for this blog. My aim is to encourage women to read thoroughly regarding birthing so they can make an informed choice for a healthy delivery.

And a healthy baby is always the desire, and no one desires this more than the expectant parents. It’s unfair that parents need to do a lot of reading to find precise statistics on the various aspects of birthing. Although only a few decades back the majority of babies were safely born at home, a culture of fear has now been created around childbirth which ensures many women resign themselves to a hospital birth.

Image by jas from Pixabay

And there should be no judgement for those women who choose or need a hospital birth. As there should be no judgment for those who choose to birth safely at home. In fact, some countries, such as Wales, have a homebirthing target they are working to achieve. This has led to one hospital reaching a homebirthing rate of 11.6% in 2021. (Australia’s 2021 homebirth rate was 0.6%). (1)

The verdict is now in; a low-risk expectant mother can be assured a homebirth choice is as legitimate and safe as birthing in a hospital. Intervention and associated risks are less with a homebirth, resulting in a better start to this new life for mother and child.

Is homebirthing legal in Australia?

It is legal to homebirth in Australia. The government requires midwives and doctors to follow relevant guidelines, be registered and have professional indemnity insurance. Ultimately, it is up to the parents to choose after discussing with their health care professionals the pros and cons of both hospital and homebirth. (2)

Photo by Birthed With Bree

Why would a woman choose to homebirth in Australia?

There are many reasons why a mother would choose to homebirth. The hospital system can be overwhelming and impersonal, and some doctors don’t have the attributes to provide a birthing mother with the consideration and care she requires. A women can feel more relaxed and in control in the familiar, relaxed environment of home.

Previous experience with the hospital system can leave women feeling disillusioned and seeking alternatives. Birthing during the Covid lockdowns and restrictions meant that some women gave birth without the support of friends or family. Missing out on this support increases the risk of caesarean, the need for pain relief and a longer labour. This is unthinkable and goes against the WHO recommendations. (3)

Photo by Hannah Barata: https://www.pexels.com/photo/family-supporting-a-pregnant-woman-20082011/

During the vulnerable state of birthing a woman can feel she has lost her voice. Choosing a homebirth and having birth attendants who have remained constant during the pregnancy, and who know your requirements, can be reassuring for a birthing mother. In addition to this, the friends and family she chooses to have around her will offer support, love, and in her weaker moments, remind her of her voice. In this regard, homebirth is very empowering.

Cultural and religious considerations are valid reasons for seeking a homebirth. It isn’t always possible to find a doctor or midwife whose values align with yours, and even if you did, in the public system you’re not guaranteed of having them on call when you need them.

Photo by Rebekah Vos on Unsplash

I chose to have a homebirth after having had two waterbirths in a birthing centre. The pain relief waterbirth offers is huge and helped me deliver my babies free from medication. At the time, there were no hospitals in my area that offered a waterbirth option, so I opted for, and had, two successful homebirths.

What to do if you’re pregnant.

As soon as you discover you are pregnant you should begin making plans for the birth. Your local GP will be able to advise you on obstetricians, hospitals and possibly homebirthing.

Homebirthing in Australia is supported by a network of privately practicing midwives (PPMs) and publicly funded homebirth programs. PPMs are registered midwives who provide comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. They carry medical equipment and medications to manage emergencies and work in collaboration with medical professionals when necessary.

Publicly funded homebirth programs are available in some states and territories, offering women the option to give birth at home under the care of hospital-based midwives. These programs are typically available to women with low-risk pregnancies and provide continuity of care throughout the birthing process.

Photo by Amina Filkins: https://www.pexels.com/photo/male-hugging-pregnant-female-at-home-5425048/

Homebirth Australia would be able to provide you with the direction and information you need. They have a directory of midwives, doulas and other support services. They also provide a list of publicly funded homebirth programs. (4)

In the modern world it can be difficult to find your tribe. Speak to mothers in your area and ask on local social media groups to see if there are homebirth support networks in your area. Maternal and Child Health Centres can be a good place to get information. (5) The Australian Breastfeeding Association offers support to women, both during pregnancy and beyond. Most areas have local meet-up sessions where you can meet other mums – there is no requirement to be breastfeeding. (6)

Photo by Michal Bar Haim on Unsplash

Try to relax and enjoy the journey.

Although being pregnant and raising children can be a challenging and exhausting time, it passes quickly. One day you will look back on these days as some of the best of your life. Relax, enjoy the journey and never feel ashamed of reaching out and asking for help at any stage of parenting. This great country, Australia, offers many types of support and assistance; I’ll enclose a few links below.

Happy Birthing!