Not having to clean up would be a big positive of appointments being at an office. However, trying to keep my kids contained, and making sure they didn't damage anything or climb out a window would make appointments alot more stressful than having them at home, where i know they are relatively safe.

It is a little like how some people prefer ABA meetings at people's houses, where other people feel more comfortable to have them in a public hall. Both have their benefits.

Dot Face, if your midwife can't help with a birth pool, you could buy one and then sell it again afterwards. The cost would be similar to hiring, and they are pretty easy to sell on ebay.