Revitalization of Homebirths in Developed Countries

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Page 1 of 8 Revitalization of Homebirths in Developed Countries A recent trend of rising planned homebirths has sparked curiosity among many researchers. After being regarded as unsafe for decades, why are some women in developed countries choosing to birth their children at home? Although technology continues to make forward advancements, some women ditch the standard hospital setting and choose the back-to- basics method of giving birth in the home. In 1940, the percent of births outside of hospital in the U.S. dropped to 44%, then again in 1969, the percent of homebirths dropped to less than 1% (MacDorman 17). I aim to investigate this recent trend and analyze whether planned homebirths are just a viable option as hospital births by examining the training of the medical attendant, OB/ GYN or midwife, in tandem with mortality rates of both mother and child, as well as social perceptions of the practices in the media and culture itself. It is important to designate the difference between planned and unplanned homebirths. Planned homebirths involve expecting mothers who have done their research on the topic and understand the potential risks, and benefits of giving birth within the setting of their own home. These planned homebirths are attended by a medical professional ranging from paramedics, to mid-wives and even physicians (Schramm 930). Unplanned homebirths are not attended by a medical professional and often are a result of lack of pre-natal planning. In a study performed in the state of Missouri, unplanned homebirths had a higher death rate than homebirths that were Page 1 of 8 Page 2 of 8 planned (Schramm 932). This essay will use homebirth to mean “planned homebirth.” Training and education are a vital part to any
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