What influences women in Athens to choose home birth?

Abstract

Home birth rates in Greece have decreased in the last 25 years and make up less than 0.9% of the total births. In contrast, the caesarean section rate exceeded 50% in 2001. The home birth service is only provided on a small scale by private midwives and does not come under the auspices of the Greek National Health Service. It is argued that women should have a right to choose where to give birth, but it seems that this is not an option for most Greek women. In order to understand the reasons women in Athens give for choosing a home birth, narrative interviews were conducted. According to the findings, women in this study decided on a home birth primarily because they wanted to be in control of their birthing experience. The familiar surroundings of their home gave them a sense of reassurance and safety, which in turn enhanced their self esteem and confidence during labour. The belief that birth is a natural event the woman's body is programmed for was another reason women gave for choosing a home birth. This belief in normality of labour came in contrast to the strict medical atmosphere of hospitals'.