MONDAY is national Home Birth Day, when mums across the country spread the word about how giving birth at home was a better experience for them and their families.

Home Birth Group member, Julie Abbott, said: "Home birth is an option open to all women, including first-time mums like me, but many are unsure about how to arrange it, or think it is not available.

"We want parents to know the full range of options open to them, so that they can make the best choice for themselves and their baby. Talk to your midwife, or talk to us about it."

Members say women who plan to give birth at home are less likely to have a Caesarean section, even if they have to transfer to hospital.

"Typically, they tend to have greater privacy and more control over their birth. This gives them a positive start to parenting and makes them less prone to post-natal depression. Research also shows they find it easier to establish breast feeding afterwards."

For more information about the Home Birth Support Group in Greater Manchester, contact Julie Abbott on 0161 440 7374.