Hello!

I’m having my third baby which will be my second home birth. My oldest son is 9 will be nearly 10, and he wants to stay home for the birth. He wanted to last time but we weren’t sure how it would be. It turned out to be a very peaceful birth with no screaming or anger. I think it would be fine for him as it’s something he wants and keeps asking – it’s never been offered. But my partner thinks it’ll scar him. What do you think?


Want more real mum questions sent to you?

You'll need to check this email to complete your signup.
  • Go for it. Kids get shown birthing videos around that age anyway.


  • It;s up to you, however, I would probably not. However, my suggestion would be to try and find some good home birth videos and see how he deals with those? It can be pretty distressing, especially if something was to happen.


  • I would not…I think its to dramatic


  • Sounds like an amazing experience for him. Do whatever feels right for your family :)


  • I don’t see what’s wrong with it. He could stand just behind you so he only sees the baby as it is being delivered and won’t see that intimate part of you. Also have someone to be with him in-case he feels a bit unsteady on his feet.


  • It is up to you. I don’t think I am comfortable to do this.


  • It’s entirely up to you. I don’t know why you would want to. I can only go on my experience which was a very traumatic birth. I was traumatised for long after, so I can’t imagine that I would need anyone else to witness it. I’m not sure of the emotional value in a 9 year old witnessing childbirth even if it is a beautiful and glorious experience for you.


  • I saw this post on Facebook, and I felt disheartened by some of the comments implying that he shouldn’t be there (because he’s a boy), but if they had a daughter that age they’d allow her…. how condescending. If he is ready I would let him. People act like Men can’t be obstetricians, midwives, nurses and such… they can!!!!


  • I think it’s a beautiful idea, if I could have my son there I would for sure!


  • I think it’s a lovely idea.
    I’d just keep him at your top end to avoid any unwanted topics to be discussed too early for his age. But if your open with all things anatomically, then do as you please


  • Afraid I’m an adult an don’t think I could handle it .. I’d have to agree with your husband .. I think it’s a little young personally


  • I think it would be good for him. Maybe watch some DVDs involving childbirth with him, see how he copes with them and go from there


  • yes definitely my cousins have done it and the whole family being involved has made it such a more than wonderful experience for all of them. especially in the birthing baths .


  • If it what he wants, by all means. Have an option for him, if it’s all to scary. Have a grandparent or aunt on hand to take him if he’s not in to it.


  • If he wants to let him. Have him in a certain position that he can see but not see too much.


Post your reply
Add a photo
Your MoM account


Lost your password?

Enter your email and a password below to post your answer and join MoM:

↥ Back to top

Thanks For Your Star Rating!

Would you like to add a written rating or just a star rating?

Write A Rating Just A Star Rating
Join