Aqua Baby : BIRTH AT HOME IN A TUB.

When I was 15 years old, my sister gave birth to her daughter in a hospital following a 25-hour labor confined to a bed with an IV and an ever-beeping machine. In my mind, I was a terrific labor coach--kneading her lower back, offering her ice chips, and simply being a reassuring and very excited presence during those very long hours. My sister made it clear to the on-duty nurse that I was to accompany her into the delivery room. But after painkillers were administered, my sister got very fuzzy and was no longer able to insist on her wishes. Rudely, the nurse instructed me to step outside--I wasn't needed. My niece was born a little while later, as I was sitting on a wooden chair out in the bright yellow hallway.

Ten years later I discovered that I was pregnant. One morning, after waking to light spotting, I went to my campus clinic for a blood test to ensure that I was not having a miscarriage. A few days later I got a call from a nurse, who informed me in a hushed tone that yes, indeed, I was pregnant. No, "Congratulations." Only, "When can you come in to discuss your options?"

These were my two experiences with medicalized pregnancy and birth. Naturally, I decided to look elsewhere for my prenatal care.

Following the wonderful advice of a friend, I went to visit a midwife. Her office walls were covered with a multitude of photos of babies she'd helped to deliver. I knew I had made the right choice. The visit was relaxed, the midwife showed genuine excitement for my news,…