Preparing for a Home Birth in Portland

Aug 3

Choosing to have a home birth is a deeply personal decision, and if you're considering this path in Portland, you’re not alone. Many families are drawn to the idea of welcoming their baby in the comfort and familiarity of their own home. The thought of a serene, intimate birth environment surrounded by loved ones can be incredibly appealing. However, it’s not a decision to be taken lightly.

Understanding the Reality of Home Birth

First and foremost, let’s be real: home birth isn’t for everyone. It requires you to have a normal (low-risk) pregnancy, planning, a solid support system, and the acceptance of certain risks. Unlike hospital births, you won’t have immediate access to advanced medical interventions if complications arise. This is why it’s crucial to have a qualified midwife who is experienced in home births and can handle emergencies should they occur.

Choosing the Right Midwife

Your midwife will be your guide, advocate, and medical professional throughout your pregnancy and birth. Portland is home to many skilled midwives who specialize in home births. Do your research, interview multiple midwives, and trust your gut when making this critical choice. Look for someone who is not only experienced but also someone you feel comfortable and confident with. They should be certified, have positive references from other families (yes, you can and should ask to speak to former clients!), and be able to provide you with detailed information about their approach to home birth. Any good midwife will have a clearly written explanation of their scope of practice and if there is a time you’ll “risk out” of their care.

Preparing Your Home

Preparing your home for a birth involves more than just picking the room where you plan to give birth. You need to create a space that is clean, comfortable, and equipped with everything you might need during labor and delivery. Here’s an initial checklist to get you started:

Birthing Supplies: Your midwife will provide a list of necessary supplies, including sterile gloves, absorbent pads, and a birth pool if you’re planning a water birth.
Comfort Items: Think about what will help you feel relaxed and supported—pillows, blankets, birth ball, essential oils, and music.
Emergency Plan: Know the fastest route to the nearest hospital and what circumstances would require you to seek care at a hospital.
Support System: Make sure you have a solid support system in place, whether it’s your partner, a doula, or close friends. Their role is to provide physical and emotional support, leaving the medical aspects to your midwife.

Educating Yourself

Education is power. Enroll in childbirth classes in Portland and ask specific questions about preparing for an unmedicated home birth. If you’re looking for a fully customized class in your home, we can help! Classes can provide you with valuable information about the process, pain management techniques, and what to expect before, during, and after birth. Knowledge can alleviate fears and empower you to make informed decisions throughout your labor.

Emotional Preparation

Birth is powerful. It can be empowering, beautiful, and, messy. Mentally preparing for the experience is just as important as the physical preparation. Visualize your birth, practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and talk openly with your partner, midwife, and doula about your hopes, fears, and expectations. Remember, it’s okay to be nervous—it’s a big deal. But trust in your body’s ability to bring life into this world and lean on those around you for support.

Portland Resources

Portland is a fantastic city with a wealth of resources for families planning a home birth. Here are some essential contacts and services to consider:

Midwifery Practices: Check out local midwifery practices and reach out to those you’d like to interview. The Oregon Midwifery Council has a list of options.
Doula Services: Organizations like Doulas of Oregon offer support for expecting families, providing emotional and physical assistance during birth and even postpartum. Reach out to us to find a doula!
Prenatal and Postpartum Care: Asula Wellness offers holistic care, including acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic services tailored for pregnant and postpartum women in Portland and Lake Oswego.
Birth Education: Look into Birth First Education Center in Portland (held at Xenana Spa and Wellness) for classes specific to out of hospital birth, along with other birth & postpartum preparation classes. Doulas of Oregon offers private classes custom tailored to your interests and needs.

Choosing a home birth is a journey of empowerment, trust, and beauty. It’s about reclaiming the birth experience in a way that feels right for you and your family. Be prepared, stay informed, and surround yourself with a supportive team who respects and honors your birth choices. Trust your instincts, lean on your resources, and embrace the incredible experience of bringing new life into the world in the comfort of your own home.