Most studies of
homebirth in other countries have found no statistically significant differences in perinatal outcomes between home and hospital births for women
at low risk of complications.36, 37,39 However, a recent study in the United States showed poorer neonatal outcomes for births occurring
at home or in birth centres.40 A meta - analysis in the same year demonstrated higher perinatal mortality associated with
homebirth41 but has been strongly criticised on methodological grounds.5, 42 The Birthplace in England study, 43 the largest prospective cohort study on place of birth for women
at low risk of complications, analysed a composite outcome, which included
stillbirth and early neonatal death among other serious morbidity.