Homebirth w/o midwife?

[afitch5]

Update in post 3



I have been doing a lot of research on the discomforts and dangers of hospital births, and have decided that I would like to try homebirth. I am having a normal pregnancy and was reasonably healthy before conception, minus some extra weight. There are only 2 complications with that plan.
1. I don't want anyone there but me. I want to experience this in a comfortable environment, which to me means alone if possible, S.O. there if not.
2. I don't have insurance, and midwives are rather expensive.

How does one handle maternity leave from work in a homebirth situation? I know that it shouldn't be much different than someone in the hospital, but I'm not sure.

I have read so many wonderful stories of women giving birth unassisted, but I can't seem to find the stories about things going wrong and how to prevent them. I read the post below about unassisted birth, and it is inspiring. I am thinking that the best bet will just be to follow my body, and if I feel that there is something wrong, then I can get to a hospital.

[firefly4]

It's hard to make these choices but whatever you decide is best for you is the right answer!

You are welcome to read my unassisted birth story here: http://finchfamily.livejournal.com/10449.html#cutid1

Good luck with your journey!

[afitch5]

Since my son is now 3, I might as well update this. ;)

I got too scared (and pressured) and had a hospital birth. HUGE mistake, it was awful. They gave me things I didn't want, didn't let me move around, didn't let me keep my baby in my room, etc. Next time, if there is a next time, I am doing it myself for sure. Now I know what to expect, both from the birth and the treatment at the hospital. It's amazing how right I was about the treatment there, and a shame I allowed myself to be talked into going because they ruined my birth experience.

[veganloraine]

As a Canadian I find it shocking that Americans have to PAY for health care, including midwives. Both of my children were born at home with midwives. I would suggest this route if you can. Midwives are very non-intrusive, respectful and compassionate. I had some minor complications with my first child that could have been devestating if the midwives hadn't been there. Labouring on my back caused the baby's heart rate to drop. They simply brought in a birthing chair and everything was fine.

Still shocked about the health care. *hugs* to my American friends.