Yes, home births are legally permissible in Egypt under strict conditions. The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) permits licensed midwives to conduct home deliveries, but only in low-risk pregnancies certified by a state hospital. Unlicensed attendants face fines up to EGP 50,000 under Law No. 151 of 2020. Recent 2026 MoHP circulars emphasize mandatory emergency transport agreements with nearby facilities.
Key Regulations for Home Births in Egypt
- Licensing Requirement: Only midwives registered with the Egyptian Midwifery Syndicate may attend home births; obstetricians must supervise high-risk cases.
- Risk Assessment Mandate: A government-approved hospital must confirm the pregnancy as low-risk within 30 days prior to delivery.
- Emergency Protocol: Home birth providers must secure a pre-signed agreement with a designated hospital for immediate transfer in case of complications.