‘Where do you want to have your baby?’ Women's narratives of how they chose their birthplace

Abstract

Background National guidelines endorse the provision of birthplace choice for women with low-risk pregnancies. Despite the availability of different options (birth centre, home and hospital) and substantial evidence highlighting the benefits of birth outside a hospital setting, the majority of women choose to give birth in a hospital. Aims This study aimed to: explore how low-risk, first-time mothers chose where to give birth to their babies; and gain an in-depth understanding of what factors influenced women's experiences of decision-making. Methods A qualitative study with a narrative approach was used. Data were collected using an online questionnaire. Participants were recruited from a social networking site. A purposive sample of nine low-risk, first-time mothers, all of whom were given a choice of birthplace (at least two options), was used. Findings Two core themes emerged that were considered to influence women's decisions on birthplace: women's expectations of birth, perception of safety and protecting the birthing process; and the influence of the midwife, antenatal education and the partner. Conclusion The study reveals that women make choices based on a variety of reasons. However, the findings presented suggest that most women give birth in a hospital as it is still widely considered to be the safest place for women and babies—both by couples themselves and by many health professionals. The challenge is to address this generation of women who believe that hospital is the most appropriate place to give birth, despite evidence to the contrary, and ultimately promote the normality of pregnancy and childbirth.