Hilary Duff shares intimate photos of her homebirth, terms it to be the “safest” experience in the pandemic

The actress and mother to three, who opted to have an at-home birth is now winning praise on the internet for not just sharing unedited, raw portrayal of what births look like, but also showcasing the hard work that goes into labour and delivery. Previously, the actress had shared a black and white picture, clicked moments following her daughter Mae James’ birth.

Talking of the experience,the 33-year-old also praised her husband, Mathhew Koma, her mother and her doula for being so supportive. In one of the photos, her husband is seen placing a hand on her shoulder and the belly, comforting her. In other photos, she can be seen using the birthing ball, which is known to induce labour.

Penning a long Instagram post, Duff, who has often talked about her parenting struggles, experiences and has also penned a children’s book has also shared that going for a home birth was the best way to feel ‘safest’ and comfortable during the pandemic.

“For me to feel safe during birth and get to where I need to go, it’s crucial to have the right support system. The perfect amount of space, counter-pressure, humor, stillness and people that support my power.”

For the home birth, she was joined in by her co-star and friend, Molly Bernand, who functioned as her doula. Sharing some raw, intimate photos, Hilary talked about how her family and support group pitched in to welcome little Mae:

“Feeling ready to share some photos of Mae Mae’s birth day!!! My hubby is the most calm anchor in the room when I feel like climbing the walls and my little Molly is an extraordinary doula who sat with me when I needed to be still and quiet. She quite enjoyed the fact that I was sitting on doggy puddle pads as my water had broken hours before ???? My own mama was there to make all the snacks and watch with a big nervous smile as her baby brings her a new grandbaby earthside. The help that I have to support my other children while I am not able is maybe the most comforting thought of all. All hands on deck. Forever lol.

The actress also shared that raising three kids of her own, giving birth have truly made her realize how hard, and miracle-worthy of a journey motherhood is.”This is hard work…every way a woman brings a baby in is. From getting pregnant, to c-sections, hospital or home births, the breastfeeding journey (oy vey that one gets me every time) and raising these little beings responsibly to be stand up, confident, kind citizens of the world. It’s completely consuming. A tedious, magical, miraculous adventure…So cheers almighty mothers. You make mountains move daily ♥️”, said Duff, who also has kids Banks and Luca.

While Hilary isn’t the first celebrity to opt for a home birth, the rates of birthing at home have actually risen up across the world, including in our country. The fear of contracting COVID-19 has also made many would-be mothers opt for home births during the pandemic. Many parents also consider having a home birth so as to avoid technological advancements, medical interventions so as to welcome a life in the most natural means. A home birth, which is done with the help of a doula or a midwife can also let expecting women enjoy labour in the comfort and care of their families, and giving parents more freedom and control over birth-related decisions as well as privacy.

While home births have been known to be quite beneficial and lower maternal infections, not all pregnancies are well-suited for home births. As per experts, multiple births, high-risk pregnancy, complications are not suited for home births.