Hospital births may reduce risk

The findings of a study published in American Economic Journal: Applied Economics indicate that giving birth in a hospital significantly reduced the risk of infant mortality compared to home births.  The project was conducted in the Netherlands, where home births are particularly common. The data from more than 350,000 women was collected where the birth was considered “low-risk” (between the years 2000-2008) and outcomes of seven-day mortality, 28-day mortality and five-minute Apgar scores were compared.

Results found that giving birth in a hospital led to substantial reductions in infant mortality but had no effect on Apgar scores.  The authors suggest that proximity to medical technologies may be a key factor contributing to these improved mortality rates.

The MAMA Academy team would like to reassure parents that in many cases home-births are still considered a very safe option and if you are at all concerned, we recommend you discuss the options that are best for you with your healthcare provider.

Read the study abstract here

RCM summary can be viewed here