Yes, home births are legal in Oregon, provided they comply with state midwifery statutes and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) oversight. Midwives must be licensed, and parents must meet informed consent requirements under ORS 687.415–687.565, with no criminal penalties for uncomplicated deliveries.
Key Regulations for Home Births in Oregon
- Licensed Midwifery Requirement: Only Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) or Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) licensed by the Oregon Board of Direct Entry Midwifery (OBDEM) may attend home births. Unlicensed attendants risk civil penalties under ORS 687.455.
- Emergency Transfer Protocols: Midwives must maintain written agreements with hospitals for emergency transfers, as mandated by OHA’s 2024 Emergency Transport Guidelines. Failure to comply may trigger disciplinary action.
- Informed Consent & Recordkeeping: Parents must sign acknowledgment forms per ORS 687.470, and midwives must document prenatal care, labor progress, and neonatal outcomes. OHA audits records biennially for compliance.