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“It could not have been more different.” Comparing experiences of hospital-based birth and homebirth in Ireland: A mixed-methods survey by Soma Gregory; Louise Caffrey; Deirdre Daly is a Medicine article available to read on EtoBox.

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Problem Internationally, little is known about the experiences of the minority who have birthed both in hospital and at home. This group are in a unique position to provide experiential evidence regarding perceptions of care under each approach. Background Obstetric care within the hospital setting is the hegemonic approach to birth in western cultures. Homebirth is at least as safe as hospital birth for those with low-risk pregnancies, yet access is strictly regulated. Aim To explore how those who have experienced both hospital and homebirth maternity care in Ireland perceived the care received, and experienced birth in each setting. Methods 141 participants who birthed both in hospital and at home between 2011 and 2021 completed an online survey. Findings Participants’ overall experience scores were significantly higher for homebirth (9.7/10) than hospital birth (5.5/10). In hospital, midwifery-led care scored significantly higher (6.4/10) than consultant-led care (4.9/10). Qualitative data revealed four explanatory themes: 1) Regulation of birth; 2) Continuity of care and/or carer and establishing relationships; 3) Bodily integrity and informed consent; and 4) Lived experiences

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Author

Soma Gregory; Louise Caffrey; Deirdre Daly

Publisher

Elsevier BV

Published

2023

Language

EN

Field

Medicine (Health Sciences)