Another option for your delivery you should be aware of is called a Birthing Center.
These facilities are typically focused on providing services to women whose pregnancies are categorized as low risk.  Often these are women who have previously given birth
and considered as quite unlikely to develop complications. 

Women who have one of a variety of medical conditions, those who are considered to be somewhat higher risk for whatever reason, or who are expecting a multiple birth should
not consider delivery in a birth center.

Birth centers are designed for natural birth.  As such, these centers are all about creating and fostering an atmosphere that is a very relaxing and comfortable.  They strive to have a feel that is much more homelike than other hospital settings.

Some centers are physically connected to a hospital, though others are completely independent from a hospital or other medical office complex.  They may provide amenities similar to the upscale hospitals previously described, with large comfy rooms.  In addition to the bathroom and shower facilities, they may have a Jacuzzi tubs and even kitchen equipment for preparing meals.  These facilities are geared to having a real family experience, with very little limitation as to the number of family members allowed to be in attendance throughout labor and the delivery.
 

What they commonly do not have is much in the way of the type of medical equipment
commonly present in a hospital.  This would include intravenous tubes, oxygen and anesthesia equipment, along with infant resuscitation equipment.  Deliveries requiring procedures such as an episiotomy or epidural injections would usually require transfer to a hospital.  So keep these concerns in mind when comparing a birthing center to a hospital delivery.

Birthing centers use a number of different health care professionals.  They usually have registered nurses and certified nurse-midwives.  They may also be affiliated with resources such as different medical consultants which can advise women who may want to seek
higher level medical services.          
 
If delivering in a birthing center sounds good to you, check to see if the facility you like is accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers.  These centers are most suitable for a woman who wants a natural birth without much medical involvement or need for pain moderation assistance.

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