By Andrea Pettes
 
February 22, 2010
 
MEDFORD, Ore. - For many countries throughout the world, many women still have their babies at home.
 
In the U.S., more women are re-examining their choices and their labor locations. Just a few years ago, 99 percent of women in the U.S. were delivering their babies inside the hospital. However, in the last 10 years, midwifes have experienced a steady increase of women choosing to stay at home. Midwifes in Southern Oregon say that trend is proving true with an increase above 5 percent.
 
"It was less than one percent 10 years ago, and now its about 5 percent in this area, which is significant in growth over 10 years. Women are ready for personalized care and don't want to be a number and moved through a system," Certified Midwife Augustine Colebrook said.
 
Research shows only women with low risk, who are healthy, can use a home birth plan. Anyone with complications is urged to continue to use traditional hospital care.
 
Midwifes in Southern Oregon say home births are billed to insurance just as a regular birth. They are also significantly cheaper since there is no hospital overhead.
 
People who are interested should do their research to ensure its the right option for them. For more information visit Wise Women Care Associates at www.wwwaterbirth.com.