I think the crucial question, though, is whether there is anybody at hand who can step in IN CASE of complications. As long as there is a capable/confident person around, I see no argument to deter anybody from giving birth at home.

I'm sure those who choose to do so have adequately weighed up the risk and the pros and cons of it.

Yep, i fully agree!

Nah, i don't think i agree. Things can go wrong at any minute. The deliveries of both my kids were different, i had a hard time with my daughter. What if it turns out that the umbilical chord is wrapped around the baby's neck? anyway, i felt safer at the hospital, just in case, and i would do that again, just in case.

Huh? "comment removed by moderator" care to enlighten me what that was, mods? or at least the nature of the reason behind its removal?