By Muhammad Al-Shahrani

Okaz/Saudi Gazette

DAMMAM — A questionnaire on whether pregnant women would like to give birth at home with the help of qualified midwives got a positive response from 56.1 percent of those approached, while 43.9 percent rejected the idea.

The initiative was organized by a scientific group representing midwives in the Kingdom. A total of 6,136 respondents participated in the survey.

Those rejecting the idea of giving birth at home showed their concern over developing some complications during the process. Furthermore, many respondents said they won't like their family members to be anxious.

The inability to have proper anesthesia method was another concern. Some of those who rejected the idea said unavailability of proper instruments, lack of their sterilization and cases of high-risk pregnancies were the main factors.

Meanwhile, the response of the non-pregnant women revolved around the health staff's readiness. Responding men said the environment in hospitals is more suitable.

Replies of those who encouraged home delivery by nonprofessionals focused on reducing the risk of coronavirus infection; and the availability of privacy, safety and low financial costs. The response from health staff focused on reducing unnecessary medical intervention, and the availability of qualified midwives.

The response of non-pregnant women focused on the availability of support from husband and family, and creating intimate memories. In this connection, the response of men revolved around fears of child swapping or kidnapping in the hospital. They also preferred to stay at home because of the safety of the family.

Most of the women respondents were of low-risk pregnancy with 79.2 percent, and 29.4 percent decisively supported home birth, while 5.24% of them said they may choose home due to several considerations such as the spread of coronavirus. They said the medical team supervising home birth should be competent and experienced.