International Homebirth Day Date in the current year: June 6, 2025

A home birth is exactly what it sounds like: a birth that takes place in one’s residence as opposed to a birthing center or hospital. For most of human history, home birth was the standard method of delivery. The term “home birth” was coined in the mid-19th century when more and more births began to take place in hospitals. Today, home births account for only a small percentage of all births in developed countries.

Home births can be planned or unplanned. Planned home births occur intentionally, while unplanned home births occur out of necessity due to circumstances beyond the mother’s control that prevent her from traveling to a hospital.

Home births can also be attended or unattended. Attended (assisted) home births occur in the presence of a healthcare professional, typically a midwife. Unattended (unassisted) home births, sometimes referred to as freebirths, take place without a healthcare professional but may involve a nonmedical birth attendant, such as a doula.

Women choose to have planned home births for various reasons. Some prefer a familiar environment for delivery, some have had negative experiences in hospitals, and some are concerned about exposing their newborn to hospital-borne infections. The accessibility and cost of hospital care can also be factors.

Home births assisted by a trained, licensed midwife are generally considered safe for low-risk pregnancies. Key factors for safety include:

• The pregnancy is considered low-risk, meaning there are no complications or pre-existing conditions such as preeclampsia, heart disease, diabetes, or multiple pregnancy.
• The licensed, experienced midwife can recognize signs of complications early.
• There is a clear, rapid plan for hospital transfer if needed.
• The home environment is clean and safe and has basic emergency supplies, such as oxygen and medications.

Supporters of assisted home births for low-risk pregnancies argue that women should have the option of a home birth because reproductive autonomy is a fundamental aspect of healthcare and human rights. When women can decide where and how to give birth, they are empowered to take control of their bodies, make informed decisions based on their unique medical and personal circumstances, and experience childbirth in a safe, supportive environment.

Respecting this choice acknowledges that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to childbirth and that women deserve the right to shape their birth experience according to their needs, values, and comfort. Home birth is not for everyone, but women have the right to know about their birthing options and to choose to give birth at home with an experienced midwife, as long as it is safe.

International Homebirth Day was created in 2012 to raise awareness of the benefits of giving birth in the comfort of your own home and to recognize the work of midwives and other healthcare professionals who assist women during home births.