Birthplace Options

In BC, Registered midwives can provide community-based perinatal care which means that pregnancy, birth and postpartum care can be provided in different settings. This is something that is outlined in the midwifery scope and model of practice for midwives in BC. In addition to the hospital, midwives can provide care in homes (homebirth) and, where available, birth centers.

For homebirths specifically, midwives carry with them standardized equipment, including birth supplies, medications and sterilization materials to ensure they can safely provide labour care at home.

Midwives will work with their client to help the client choose the birth setting that will be the safest and most comfortable option for them. The option to have a homebirth is sometimes the reason a client chooses care with a midwife, but it should be noted that midwives can provide care for births at the hospital, as well.