Home birth experience 1: decision and expectation

Abstract

Eight women's experiences of home birth were explored using tape recorded semi-structured interviews. The main themes were identified and presented in the form of dialogue and quotes. This article explores the available literature, describes the methodology and reports the results from the first two themes of the study. The decision to have a home birth was based on previous birth experience, the desire for a familiar environment and concerns over childcare. Expectations centred on maintaining normality, a calm atmosphere and having more control.