Many women feel there is no safer or more loving place to give birth than in their own home with the assistance of a midwife. The home setting is familiar and natural -- a place where the new baby and family are together from the start.

For low-risk pregnancies, there is no evidence to suggest that giving birth in the hospital is safest. The evidence does show much lower rates of obstetrical intervention, such as forceps and c/section deliveries, with midwife assisted births.

Compared to hospital delivery, home birth asks more of parents -- more participation, more responsibility -- and also gives parents more control and involvement in this intimate event. The woman, her family, and the midwife become partners in the health and well-being of the mother and the baby.

If you would feel more comfortable in a hospital setting, or your pregnancy is a little higher risk you can easily find a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM).  CNMs practice in almost every hospital in the Atlanta metro area.  Waterbirth is also an option with some hospital practices.  Unfortunately there are no free-standing birth centers in the area.