A NATIONAL trend towards homebirths is being reflected in the region with the potential to put mothers and their newborns at risk.
Between 2003 and 2007 there were 70 homebirths recorded in the South West by the health department, up from 13 performed in 2003 to 20 in 2007.
Across Australia more parents are choosing the option but there has also been a reported increase in the associated death rate.
There were no deaths from homebirths in the South West between 2003 and 2007, but Bunbury gynaecologist Dr Ron Jewell said mothers were putting themselves and their babies at risk.
“People are looking at their choice rather than safety,” Dr Jewell said.
Dr Jewell said parents choosing homebirth may be doubling their risk of danger because if a complication does occur, the right equipment or medications may not be on hand immediately.
He said it was of particular concern for mothers in the region who might live some distance from a hospital.
“If you’re out at the back of Boyanup, the hospital is some distance away,” Dr Jewell said.
However Bunbury mother Megan Pelusey disagrees.
Mrs Pelusey gave birth to her first child Georgia at home in 2006 and with baby number two on the way her family is preparing for another homebirth with the help of a trusted midwife, her husband Marcus and Georgia, 2.
“I’m a private person and it’s a nice way to have it in your home and this time my two year old will see it all,” Mrs Pelusey said.
Mrs Pelusey said she felt women with low risk of complications could have safe homebirths when supported by a midwife with the right equipment.
“I had continuity of care with my midwife, I had regular visits throughout the whole pregnancy, (the midwife was there) during the birth and I had after birth care and you still see a doctor anyway,” Mrs Pelusey said.
She said she was not nervous about complications.
“The midwife has all the right equipment like oxygen if it is needed and we are not very far from the hospital if something happens.”
The Peluseys are paying almost $3000 for the water birth in their home, significantly more than metropolitan fees.
Currently the WA Country Health Service does not provide home birthing services in Bunbury and the South West, however a range of antenatal, birthing and postnatal services are provided.
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