Where to Birth in Aotearoa

Mini Bites of Cheerfuls Information #1

Your in the throws of pregnancy - your ankles are swollen, you can't remember where you put your keys, anything you drop on the floor you attempt to pick up with your toes, you feel as though your the size of a reasonably priced townhouse... and meanwhile, through the thick fog of fatigue caused by the beautiful parasite growing in your belly, you're expected to make these life changing decisions. 

Decisions that could be the difference between a traumatic birthing experience, or a serene, unforgettable, YouTube worthy experience. 

One of these said, important decisions is where you would like to welcome your mini me earthside. In New Zealand we are lucky enough to have many options available to us. You can choose based on your situation, beliefs, religion, lifestyle or simply what you would personally be comfortable with. It's also dependent on where you live, in the regions options may be limited. 

Where could you welcome your little poop machine into the world?

• Primary Maternity Unit
• Home Birth
• Hospital
• Private Hospital (budget willing) 

As the mumma bear, you have full control over this decision, do not let any external opinions deter you from what you would like to do. Of course, take on board the expertise, the rationality of where you're located, whether your pregnancy is high risk or not! Don't feel pressured to make this decision based on the beliefs of others, this is a journey that you and baby face and a moment you will cherish forever. 

For myself, it was a no brainer. With my personal situation I was comfortable in a hospital setting because I was familiar with it so that is where I chose to have my baby. I took on what advice people had to offer, but I knew in my heart that was what I wanted for Scarlett and I.

Your midwife will help you make this decision but you can conduct your own research too. I found reading through the forums like this one really helpful, and the Ministry of Health breaks it down into a few segments for ya here. 

I hope this has helped! Now pop another quik-eeze, snuggle into your pregnancy pillow and go to sleep!

Cheerfuls x