​We offer first time parents their initial labour assessment(s) at home when it is appropriate, even for those planning a hospital birth. Many first time parents are not in the active phase of labour the first time they are assessed. If it’s not quite time, it’s much more comfortable to have the midwife come, check you out, and tuck you into bed when they leave, than for you to drive to the hospital and have to return home because it is too early. We are not able to admit you to the hospital in labour until you are in the active phase. You will benefit from staying in the comfort of home while you get into a more established labour pattern.

Those planning a hospital birth can be admitted to the hospital at the onset of labour but we encourage you to consider doing some of your active labouring at home. The midwife can monitor and care for you at home just as they would in the hospital as we carry all our gear with us. Your home is a soothing, familiar environment where you can relax and progress in labour. There is also more space to move about and you have access to your own bathroom and kitchen. You will decide when you feel ready to move into the hospital if you plan to give birth there.