Laws and Local Ordinances Regarding Home Birth
The Department of Health strongly encourages delivery at birthing facilities as part of their National Safe Motherhood Program. With a 1:120 lifetime risk of dying due to maternal causes, pregnancy and childbirth pose the greatest risk to Filipino women of reproductive age. Because of this, in some local government units, ordinances have been passed wherein home births are not allowed except for imminent deliveries and other reasonable exemptions. These ordinances have been in effect even before the COVID-19 pandemic. In this scenario, it is not a matter of choice whether to have home birth, but more of following the law set by the municipality.
If health services for pregnant women are available in the community, it is best to avail them especially during key events such as birthing. Remember, this event does not only involve the mother but also the baby. It would be shortchanging a woman’s health if she is encouraged to have home birth when safer alternatives are present. It would also be more prudent to be prepared for any potential problem.
Most especially in the newborn such as the difficulty of breathing and low heart rate. Though on one end of the spectrum, home birth may have its merit as accessible and inexpensive. However, there is apt time to prepare for labor and delivery in a preferred birthing facility or hospital. With the risks of COVID-19 lurking, it is wiser to be more than prepared. Whatever may happen during labor and delivery, the health of mother and baby must be prioritized.
Is home birth safer during COVID-19? No matter what the scenario, with or without pandemic, home birth is not the ideal setup.
Learn more about Pregnancy here.
Comments
Share your thoughts
Be the first to let Hello Doctor know your thoughts!
Join Us or Log In to join the discussion