Alabama midwives see increase in home-birth requests
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBMA) The Alabama Midwives Alliance reports more women are becoming interested in home-births.
Midwife, Rebekah Myrick, believes COVID-19 restrictions at hospitals are inspiring women to deliver at home.
"Women choosing to have their babies at home must be low risk, not having any major complications like high-blood pressure, diabetes," Myrick said.
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During a normal year, Myrick would help deliver nearly 25 babies. COVID-19 has changed that number to 45 or more. Christian Montgomery is one mother, who used Myrick's midwife services during the pandemic and describes the experience as "magical."
"That's where my partner is, my kids are, I don't have to ask anyone who can come in the door, I get to open and close that door," Montgomery said.
Demand is so high, Myrick may be unable to help more families this year.
"I'm not able to help as many people as I was last year just because I'm already booked," she said.
Women interested in learning about midwife services in Alabama can visit the Alabama Midwives Alliance website.
