I appeal to readers who are expecting babies to seriously consider a natural home birth.

Two weeks ago, I gave birth to our son, Lucas, at home with no intervention except encouragement from my husband and the wonderful Brighton community midwives.

Lucas is our first baby so we didn't know what to expect. We are so pleased we opted for a home birth.

Our baby was born in a personal, relaxed and homely environment with no visiting hours or scary equipment around him.

My birth was very straightforward (although very painful) and my labour lasted just eight hours, most of which I spent in the bath.

Brighton and Hove has the highest rate of home births in the country - eight per cent, as opposed to the national average of two per cent.

Home births are encouraged in Brighton and Hove at the hospital antenatal classes and full support is provided.

The midwives are friendly and professional and if there are any complications you will be ambulanced straight to hospital.

If you are undecided about a home birth, go for it and remember that women are designed to cope with natural childbirth so you can do it.

-Kat Macmillan, Brighton