Currently in the United States, just under 99% of all babies are delivered in an acute care hospital, however in the early 1900's less than 5% of birth took place in a hospital setting. In recent years, alternatives to hospital-based births (community-based birthing centers and in the home) have been increasing in popularity, touted by proponents for being more serene, natural, comfortable, cost-efficient and sometime even safer compared to a hospital setting. However, concerns exist related to safety, risk of the unanticipated event occuring, and feasibility for high-risk women (or at-risk babies). A review of the existing literature will be conducted to determine risks and benefits associated with both hospital and planned non-hospital births in the U.S. in recent years. Cost, infant and maternal outcomes (including aquired infections, errors, complications, and mortality) and satisfaction with site of deliverly will be investigated. Results will be provided. Synthesized, outcomes-based information comparing hospital and non-hospital planned deliveries can be of great value to pregnant women/couples or those planning to conceive when deciding where to deliver their child, in addition to clinicians for patient education.
