the better question would be “what contributes to the safety of homebirth?” homebirth isn’t going anywhere. we are not removing that choice from people. restrictions only make people do it with less access to care. we can better support people’s choice to birth at home by helping them find the best support to improve their safety. things that improve the safety of homebirth? 1. a low-risk pregnancy: midwives risk people out of care if at any point their risk changes 2. a skilled provider: hire a midwife (or doctor) for your homebirth 3. medication/tools: midwives come with IV fluids, anti-hemorrhagic drugs, NRP equipment, oxygen, antibiotics 4. rapport: trust improves outcome, decisions are made faster 5. a nearby, supportive hospital: transfers happen! if the local hospitals are supportive they happen sooner and smoother to ensure good outcomes.