What was once relegated to the realm of "alternative birthing" is steadily becoming an accepted form of giving birth. According to data from the National Center for Health Statistics more and more women are choosing to have their babies with a midwife. In 1990 just four percent of pregnant women made the decision to give birth with the help of a midwife, while in 2003 it was up to eight percent.

The growing midwifery trend is an example of the greater shift in national attitude toward birthing. Women seem to be choosing midwives because they want a more natural, relaxed birth that is tailored to their individual needs. Insurance coverage has also made it easier than ever to give birth with a midwife. Most insurers cover care from a licensed midwife who is affiliated with a hospital or approved birthing center.

Whether women choose to give birth with a midwife at home, in a birthing center, or in a hospital (some hospitals allow women to work with a midwife, which gives them the comfort and individuality of an alternative birth with the safety of conventional medicine) they will be given the opportunity to give birth the way they want to. "Midwives let women be in whatever position they want to be in - on their hands and knees on the floor, squatting, in a tub," said Susan Hodges, president of Citizens for Midwifery. "Without signs of a real medical problem, birth should actually be more hands-off than it is.

[via CNN]