At Home Birth Checklist

Midwife Must-Haves
Fetoscope or ultrasonic stethoscope
Sterile gloves
Gauze pads
Drop cloths
cotton hat for the baby
Pan for afterbirth
Thermometer
Oxygen for the baby if necessary
Tools for suturing tears
IV's for you, should you need additional fluids due to dehydration
Medication to slow/stop ;hemorrhage
When to Consider At Home Birth
If you are having a healthy, problem-free pregnancy
If you want a more natural childbirth
If you want to be in the comfort of your own home
If you want to share the experience with family and friends
When At Home Birth is Not Recommended
If you are at risk for preterm labor or have had preterm labor in the past
If you are a diabetic
If you have chronic high-blood pressure or toxemia/preeclampsia
If you have had or are having other complications
Prepare for the Birth
Research midwife services and at-home birthsBe thorough in your research. Ask friends and health care professionals for recomendations.
Interview midwives to learn about their respective birthing philosophies and the services they provide.
Find out if your midwife works with a backup OBGYN.
Arrange to have your infant examined at the pediatrician's office 24 hours after the birth.
Have the name, location, and contact info for a nearby hospital should an emergency ariseLikewise, pack a bag for the hospital, just in case.
Prepare a birthplan with your midwife teamHave this on hand for the birth, as well as any relevant medical information.
To Have at Home
Make sure the birth room is clean, comfortable, and clear of clutter.
The bed should have clean fresh sheetsAt least 2 full sets of extra linens should be readily available.
Clean, comfortable clothes to birth in, as well as a change of clothes for after.
Maternity/sanitary napkins
Several pairs of underwear
Snacks and drinks for you and your partner or family members.
Lots of LinensYou will need several sets of towels and washcloths in various sizes. Keep these in a large laundry basket or storage bin.
Your favorite beverages, including lots of bottled water.
Clothes for the babyThis includes a onesie or t-shirt, a long-sleeved sleeper, footed pajamas, socks, cotton hats and 4-5 receiving blankets.
DiapersInclude wipes and diaper rash cream.
Items for the Birth
The items provided by your midwife service variesBe sure to go over the birth plan with your midwife team well in advance, and make a list of the items s/he is responsible for bringing.
Plastic or rubber sheeting to cover the bed and floors
Refuse sacks
A hot water bottle
Vinyl tablecloth to protect furniture and carpet from birth stains
A large flat brand new cookie sheet (to transport birthing supplies)
Birth KitThis includes a list of disposable supplies that need to be ordered.
Other Items You May Want (Or may be brought by your midwife)
Pitcher or electric kettle
Large lidded pot
Herbal Remedies, teas or tinctures to provide added comfort or relieve pain.
Small bottle of unopened olive oilThis can be used for massage and also to clean the birth fluids from your baby's skin.

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If you're pregnant and considering giving birth at home, there are important facts you need to consider. Read our At Home Birth Checklist and get the most from your midwife service. Be prepared and welcome your little one into a warm, comfortable, safe environment...as nature intended!