Gemma

Home Birth

We decided on a home birth while living on the Kapiti Coast for a few reasons. Our first child born at Wellington hospital and was a ‘normal’ birth. This gave us the confidence that the second birth would be similar, along with advice from our midwife along the pregnancy

journey. Secondly, we wanted our daughter to be with us when our baby arrived and finally we just wanted to be in the comfort of our own home, instead of the sterile environment of the hospital or maternity unit.

We are absolutely positive that we made the right choice and wish we had gone with a home birth the first time! The relaxed atmosphere for everyone involved meant that our baby arrived in a warm, loving, happy & normal environment, her home. We all slept in our own beds with everything we needed right there. We didn’t have to go anywhere! We all stayed together instead of being separated after the birth. Everyone we needed came to us. There was no putting a very newborn baby into their capsule and driving home!

We just stayed in our happy, nurturing bubble for as long as we wanted and needed. We were in control of everything around us because it was ours. Our elder daughter benefited too, with everyone being home with her, things were as normal for her as possible. 

My partner was reluctant at first to have a home birth. He felt more secure at the hospital with all the medical team around if they were needed. However, now that he has experienced a home birth and a hospital birth he would definitely choose home birth and recommend it to anyone who has the option.