American novelist Gail Tsukiyama once wrote, “Mothers and their children are in a category all their own. There’s no bond so strong in the entire world.” The bond between a mother and her child begins long before arrival, but strengthens the moment a baby is born and laid into her arms for the very first time.

Modern mothers-to-be have numerous options for labor and delivery, with a wide variety of choices to make for safety and well-being. If you’re debating between a home birth vs. hospital birth, and wondering which is better for you, we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

Hospital Childbirth: The Common Option

The most prevalent birth setting today is a local hospital. A hospital environment is considered the safest option for labor and delivery, especially for high-risk pregnancies that require thorough medical care. As a whole, childbirth is an unpredictable process. Hospitals have immediate access to additional resources and support staff when complications occur.

That being said, hospital births are known to be less intimate and more restrictive on birth plans. If you’re leaning this route, choosing the right fit of hospital birth culture and care provider is of the essence to overcome typical limitations or inconveniences.

Home Childbirth: The Rising Alternative

A rise of women are now opting to deliver their little ones in the comfort of their own homes. You’ll find many reasons why you may prefer to do so yourself. Home births allow you to labor in a familiar environment, choose who is around you, have a water birth, use a midwife over a traditional obstetrician, and simply gain more control over your birth experience.

Planning a home birth involves selecting the right health care team and investing in labor support supplies. Don’t forget the importance of having a backup plan in place. Unexpected difficulties or emergency situations may still require a quick transfer to the hospital. Alternatively, birth centers may be a happy medium for privacy and resources.

How To Make the Decision

So, which is better? Planning your birth experience is not a simple feat, and there’s no straightforward answer. The choice between a home birth vs. a hospital birth ultimately depends on your individual pregnancy situation. Generally speaking, low-risk women are the best candidates for planned home births, as there is a less likely chance of intervention. Speak with your care provider to discuss birth plans and preferences, and make the best personal decision for comfort and safety.

Cascade Health Care is a trusted supplier of home birth kits and supplies for safe labor and delivery. We’re here to help create a wonderful birth experience—browse our selection of medical-grade products today.