1. Never having to get in the car during labor or soon after the birth.

2. Getting to (being encouraged to!) eat and drink during labor.

3. Being able to open the windows for fresh air.

4. Resting completely undisturbed after the birth. No one woke me or the baby to check vital signs or for any other reason.

5. The baby was never separated from me (as my other children had been for a bath, a blood test, or a hearing screen).

6. No one ever tried to offer my baby a pacifier, glucose water, or formula.

7. My baby did not get dehydrated from the dry hospital air, and in fact she regained her birth weight in 3.5 days rather than the typical 10-14 days.

8. My older children got to participate in the birth and never had to be separated from me or my husband.

9. No one questioned my choices about vitamin K injections, antibiotic eye ointment, vaccinations, or co-sleeping.

10. I knew every person who interacted with me and the baby during labor, delivery, and the post-delivery period. I felt comfortable (and, well, at home!) throughout the entire experience!

For those who have had a home birth, what do you see as the advantages? Were you happy with your experience?

Post from: Breastfeeding 1-2-3