You can see the appeal, can't you - no fairies or hippes singing and dancing around trees It's just a wonderful, warm thing you are able to do. Labouring in candlelight while the kids sleep with your loved ones and support around you. The midwife staying by your side for hours after - no nicking off to do paperwork or cleaning up - just being with you, just like the word midwife means - with woman.

With hospital staff, I know what you mean, but midwives already do all the work really, don't they Only at home, you get to choose your own midwife who you like and get along with Even if you have to transfer into hospital, your midwife will stay with you so you will still have the same carer.

You get all your pre-natal checks in your own home, I think they spend up to two hours with you, no waiting in anyone's office! Check the bub, you - all the stuff an Ob would do. Any complications or problems would be mentioned and if need be, a midwife will request that you see a doctor. I am sure in the next few days some homebirthers will be able to post and give you their experiences. It will be some years yet until I am able to pass on mine LOL