Preparing for Unexpected Labor

I have longed believed that every woman should be prepared to give birth medically unassisted. Having no knowledge about how to birth without assistance doesn't seem wise. Many women experience precipitious, or quick labors. During many such labors couples are terrified and risk their lives driving like crazy to reach the hospital. People have died while speedily transporting to a hospital. How much safer to simply deliver their baby themselves and call for assistance.

Years ago I wrote an editorial about a couple who raced to the hospital called Safe At Home. Today I read an article encouraging women to learn about Sudden Home Birth: What to Do
How to Handle an Unexpected Labor and Delivery. The author writes:

...My doctor also advised me to be prepared for the unlikely, but possible, chance of an emergency home labor and quick birth. Because of this, I read everything I could about giving home births.

Even though I made it to the hospital, information about how to handle sudden labor and delivery came in handy later, when a complete stranger started to give birth at a shopping mall. I was standing next to her when she collapsed, moaning, and was able to help her until medical assistance arrived, just as the baby's head emerged from between her legs.

Because of this, I think every pregnant woman should know how to handle an unexpected home birth. If the information doesn't help you, it could help someone you know.

Sudden Home Birth: What to Do
How to handle an unexpected home birth
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