We answer all your questions
Why choose to give birth at home?
The reasons why women and couples choose to give birth at home are many and varied. Common reasons include a desire for privacy, calm, and comfort; the wish to be fully in control of one’s own birth experience; the desire to be surrounded only by familiar people; the ability to fully share this moment with one’s partner and involve them in the birth process as well as in the days that follow; total, unimpeded freedom of movement; and the desire to have fewer medical interventions.
Can I give birth at home with my first child?
Yes, contrary to what you might think or hear, it is entirely possible to give birth to your first child at home. The criteria are as follows: the mother must be in good health, the pregnancy must be progressing normally, there must be only one baby, and the baby must be in a head-down position.
I don’t want to give birth at home. Can I be cared for by a midwife from Dix Lunes?
Yes, contrary to what you might think or hear, it is entirely possible to give birth to your first child at home. The criteria are as follows: the mother must be in good health, the pregnancy must be progressing normally, there must be only one baby, and the baby must be in a head-down position.
How do you manage contractions without an epidural?
Being able to move freely, having privacy, and being supported by people you trust are factors that help alleviate discomfort. Your state of mind—and the hormonal mix largely influenced by it—are your most valuable allies in managing contractions. When you are relaxed, in a supportive and soothing environment, surrounded by people you trust, and feeling calm, contractions are generally much easier to handle.
Conversely, fear and intense, non-instinctive mental activity negatively affect hormone secretion and cause an exaggerated perception of the intensity of sensations. We also have methods to help manage these sensations through acupuncture, massages using specific oils, TENS, and of course our ally, immersion, in our birthing tub!
Do you perform episiotomies?
We work in accordance with the body’s natural physiology and, as a result, avoid cutting the perineal tissue as much as possible. If, despite this, it proves necessary, we are fully capable of performing this procedure and suturing the incision using a local anesthetic. However, we emphasize proper preparation of the perineal area during the last month of pregnancy and encourage the use of physiological positions for childbirth.
Can I ask people other than my partner to be present during my delivery?
You are free to have one or more people accompany you, but please be aware that they will be in addition to the two midwives assisting with the birth. However, we recommend—without requiring it—that you limit the number of guests to two to preserve a private space where you can move and settle in freely. You should discuss this personally with your midwife if you are considering having one of your children present at the birth. The birthing process requires self-awareness and intense focus on the changes taking place in your body at that moment, and it is important not to be distracted. Additionally, I encourage you to carefully consider the reasons behind your decision to pursue this option.
Are transfers to a hospital during labor common?
No, these cases are rare, and our primary goal is always to preserve and promote the delicate balance of the body’s physiology. However, we take no risks when it comes to the mother and her baby. If the situation calls for it, we arrange for a transfer to the hospital. In most cases, this is done non-urgently in a private vehicle, but if the situation requires it, we call an ambulance. It also happens that a woman changes her mind during labor and requests a transfer—for example, to receive an epidural or due to fatigue. The transfer rate ranges between 10 and 15%, varying slightly from year to year.
Can I still continue my care with my gynecologist?
If your pregnancy is proceeding without complications, it is best to be cared for by your midwife alone, as dual care is not necessary and your insurance may refuse to cover the costs of both providers. Midwives are qualified to provide prenatal care. However, your OB-GYN remains your primary care physician, and the midwife may consult with him or her if any issues arise during or after your pregnancy. It is important to inform your gynecologist of your decision to be cared for by a midwife and to ask them to provide you with your medical records. Since midwives do not perform ultrasounds, these can be done by your gynecologist or at specialized centers.
Is my apartment big enough?
You don’t need a large space to give birth. Together with your midwife, you’ll decide on the best spot in your home—in terms of accessibility and comfort—to welcome your baby.
Your midwife will bring all the necessary medical supplies required for a home birth on the day of delivery.
I'd like to give birth in water. Is that part of your services?
Yes, that’s entirely possible with an inflatable birthing tub, which you can rent from your midwife.
From how many weeks of pregnancy can I begin my follow-up care?
We recommend that you contact us as soon as possible. Regular follow-ups help build a relationship of trust and understanding between you, your partner, and us, which is essential for your birth plan. Waiting too long to make initial contact during your pregnancy could hinder our ability to provide proper care and support.
What happens after a home birth?
We respect the moment of your first eye contact with your child and the emotions that come with it. We observe and support those first moments of life with the utmost discretion. The baby stays with his or her mother, and we give them the time needed for this transition from the womb to life outside to go smoothly. We ensure you have the peace of mind you need to enjoy those first hours with your child, foster bonding, and encourage breastfeeding.
Monitoring is conducted to ensure that the final stage of childbirth, known as “delivery of the placenta,” proceeds smoothly.
After completing all necessary checks, the midwives will stay for a few more hours before leaving for a well-deserved rest. Your midwife will visit you regularly in the weeks that follow.
How does it work for the baby?
We would like the baby to have a medical checkup performed by the pediatrician of your choice within 24 hours of birth. It is therefore up to you to make the necessary arrangements in advance.