Expectant parents choosing homebirth and alternative parenting

Less than one percent of babies in the U.S. are born at home. But after years of decline, home births are on the rise. Between 2004 and 2008, the rate of home births increased by 20 percent, according to a study published online May 20 in the journal "Birth".

Why?

Maybe alienation with hospital care—where, according to Consumer reports magazine, around a third of babies were delivered by Cesarean section in 2007—has some women wanting more control over what they consider a normal, natural experience. They want, in a sense, to stay home to stay safe.

The Atlanta area is home to a number of fully qualified and certified midwives who can accomidate the wishes of those families choosing to stay at home, myself included.

Families today are also choosing to use a myriad of controversial topics in their daily parenting. Attachment parenting, co-sleeping, no circumcision, no vaccines, and placental encapsulation just to name a few.

While these things are not for everyone, it seems to be working well for those who choose to parent in that way.

When I first began to have children I followed the traditional method as I felt was not only expected but I assumed " everyone else did". Now today, my eyes are opened. I realized there is no "right" way and no singular way is better than another.

I encourage parents to read, to talk to other mothers and be educated rather than "following the herd". Also be strong enough to defend wht you feel is right, don't give in from pressure of those who feel differently. The children you are entrusted with yo raise will benefit from your strength and education.