Home Birth in Nebraska

But wait…. Home birth is illegal in Nebraska, right?

Actually, no. It is illegal in Nebraska for CNMs (Certified Nurse-Midwives) to attend home births. HOWEVER - that’s all that the law states about home birth in Nebraska. That’s it. There is no mention of other types of midwives attending (traditional midwives, Certified Professional Midwives, direct entry midwives, etc).

The actual law–

The Nebraska Revised Statue 38-613 (3) states:

“A certified nurse midwife may perform authorized medical functions only in the following settings:

(a) In a licensed or certified health care facility as an employee or as a person granted privileges by the facility;

(b) In the primary office of a licensed practitioner or in any setting authorized by the collaborating licensed practitioner, except that a certified nurse midwife shall not attend a home delivery; or

(c) Within an organized public health agency.”

There have been several cases of the state pursuing legal action against midwives for attending home births. The cause they reference: “Practicing medicine without a license”. It is worth noting that none of these midwives have ultimately been found guilty. However, the threat of attorney fees and the massive stress of legal battles can be a big deterrent for midwives practicing in Nebraska.

For this reason, there are generally fewer home birth providers available in our area because of how the state has treated this law. But there are still midwives attending home births in Nebraska.

How can I find a home birth provider in Nebraska?

Find parents who have recently had home births in your area, and ask them about their experience. They will have recommendations for home birth midwives and home birth supportive providers. A good place to start if you don’t know of anyone would be natural-minded Facebook groups.

Can a doula attend my home birth in Nebraska?

Yes, they can. Some doulas are leery about attending a home birth because of these legal charges that have been pursued against midwives. Given our state’s current climate, the comfortability of doulas will vary.

How do I know if home birth is right for me?

Consider what you’re wanting out of your birth experience.

If you’re wanting a low-intervention, truly birther-led experience…home birth might be a good option for you. Home birth offers much more room for self-direction and self-responsibility, as there are no “hospital policies” that you’ll have to advocate for opting out of.

If this does sound like something you’d be interested in, schedule a phone call and/or consult with a home birth midwife.

Make a loooong list of great questions, and meet with your potential midwife. Then, listen to your gut and follow that nudge. Where YOU feel safest and what your heart tells you are the safest bets to make a great decision for your birth.