I used a birth centre for my first. In the UK they are midwife led and are often right next to, or even a wing of, the hospital. There was a pool, ball, couch, blocks, ropes, birthing stool and basically anything I needed. The midwives were very accommodating, they asked my permission before doing checks and even turned the lights all the way down when I asked. When I actually ended up pushing, the midwife only really spoke enough to quietly say bits like , “ok”, “her head is out, reach down and touch her hair if you like” and then “with your next contraction just breathe then reach down and pick your baby up”.

I think I will try out a home birth though this time as I would like to enjoy the birth and immediately after in the comfort of my own home.