I gave birth at home last year, and I want to ensure that women in Virginia retain the right to birth at home.  My experience at home was relaxing, peaceful, and private, and I feel that I would have felt stressed out and imposed upon by doctors and nurses had I been in a hospital environment.

In mandating "informed choice," I ask that you ensure that Midwives include the benefits and risks of home birth to their clients.  I would like to see scientific research-based "evidence"  -- not anecdotal evidence or opinions. Pregnant mothers should ask for information on the risks of hospital and caesarean delivery (and yes-- there is a risk to the mother to give birth in the hospital, and the medicine and surgery involved in C-sections has been shown to be harmful to both the mother and the baby).  Pregnant mothers should also review current midwifery regulations and make a well-researched, informed decision on whether to birth at home or in the hospital.