Home Birth in the UK: What You Need to Know

Beyond the Bump
Jun 29, 2023
4 min read

Updated: May 22

When you picture giving birth, what comes to mind? A busy hospital ward? Beeping machines? Midwives rushing around?

That might be what we’ve seen on telly, but birth doesn’t have to look like that—and for more and more families in the UK, it doesn’t. Because here’s the truth: giving birth at home is safe, supported, and seriously worth considering.

We (Vicky & Melissa) are big advocates for choice when it comes to birth. And for Vicky, home birth isn’t just something we teach—it’s something she’s experienced firsthand. She’s had two wonderful home births supported by her NHS community midwives. Calm, powerful, and on her own terms.

So, let’s cut through the noise and talk honestly about what it really means to plan a home birth in the UK.

First things first: is home birth safe?

Yes. A planned home birth is a safe choice for many people—not just those considered ‘low risk’. That’s not just our opinion—it’s backed by evidence.

According to the landmark Birthplace Study:

If it’s your second baby or beyond, planning a home birth is just as safe for your baby as hospital birth—with far fewer interventions.

For first babies, there’s a slightly higher transfer rate to hospital (mostly for additional pain relief), but outcomes are still overwhelmingly positive.

You’re more likely to have a straightforward birth at home—think fewer caesareans, forceps, episiotomies, or drips.

And here’s the bit we LOVE: NICE (our national guideline body) actually recommends home birth as a safe option for those with uncomplicated pregnancies—especially for second or subsequent babies.

What does a home birth actually look like?

It’s different for everyone. For some it’s candles and music and birth pools. For others, it’s the living room floor with tea and toast afterwards. But it always includes:

Qualified NHS midwives who come to you when labour begins
All the same safety equipment they’d bring to a birth centre
Clinical care and continuous monitoring (just without the bright lights and hospital beds)

You’ll still be monitored, still supported, and if anything unexpected comes up, your midwives will spot it early and help you transfer safely if needed.

Why do people choose to birth at home?

Because there are SO many benefits! Home birth can mean:

Comfort – you’re in your own bed, with your own snacks, and your own music
Calm – no bright lights, no hospital hustle
Choice – you move how you want, birth how you want, and you decide who’s with you
Fewer interventions – the data shows it
Continuity – often you’ve met your midwives before the birth
Immediate bonding – no need to pack up and leave afterwards

And for many, it’s about feeling in control—like the birth is happening with you, not to you.

What if things don’t go to plan?

Midwives are trained to spot if you or your baby need extra support. If a transfer to hospital is needed, they’ll come with you, call ahead, and make sure everything runs smoothly. Most transfers aren’t emergencies—they’re for things like needing stronger pain relief, or support with delivering the placenta.

You’re never without care. That’s key.

Is home birth just for people having their second baby?

Nope. First-time parents can absolutely plan a home birth. It’s your right, and if you feel drawn to the idea of birthing at home—whether it’s your first baby or your fifth—you deserve to explore that option fully.

Don’t let outdated views or scaremongering put you off. With the right preparation and support, you can have a beautiful first-time birth at home.

How do I plan a home birth?

It’s easier than you might think. Just tell your midwife it’s something you’re interested in—they’ll link you with the home birth or community midwife team.

You’ll get:

A home visit
Support to plan your birth space
Emergency planning (just in case)
The option to hire or borrow things like a birth pool

And if you want to feel even more prepared? That’s where we come in...

Want support planning your birth?

Our flagship antenatal course, The Birth & Baby Academy, includes a whole section on home birth—alongside everything else you need to know about labour, pain relief, active birth, postnatal recovery, and feeding your baby.

We help you understand your rights, feel confident asking questions, and prepare emotionally and practically—whether you’re giving birth at home, in hospital, or somewhere in between.

💻 Explore The Birth & Baby Academy – your complete online antenatal course that’s as supportive as it is informative.

🎥 Want a quick boost of confidence? Grab our free video:Taking Control of Your Birth

Vicky’s Home Birth Experience

“I’ve had two babies at home under the Warwickshire NHS maternity team and both were the most empowering, positive experiences of my life. I felt safe, supported, and totally in control. If you’re even a little bit curious about home birth, please know that it’s not some radical or risky choice—it’s a valid, brilliant one.”

If you want to chat more about home birth or get support with your plans, we’re always happy to help.