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U.S. Home Births Surge 71%, Hospitals Struggle with Transfers

2/26/2026

33 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. planned over 50,000 home births in 2024, a 71% rise since 2016.
About 10% to 15% of home births require hospital transfers due to labor complications.
Hospitals may hesitate to accept transfer patients because of legal concerns and limited resources.
Midwives report frustration over the lack of collaboration with hospitals to establish transfer plans.
Data on home birth transfers remains scarce.

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Story summary

The U.S. planned over 50,000 home births in 2024, a 71% rise since 2016.
About 10% to 15% of home births require hospital transfers due to labor complications.
Hospitals may hesitate to accept transfer patients because of legal concerns and limited resources.
Midwives report frustration over the lack of collaboration with hospitals to establish transfer plans.
Data on home birth transfers remains scarce.