Lithuania’s home birth laws face low uptake, contrasting with established practices in countries like Austria and Spain.
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Lithuania legally permits mothers to give birth at home with special care since 2019, but currently, no births have utilized this option, contrasting with several European countries where hundreds of home births occur annually. In Croatia, the lack of regulation creates a legal gray area, making it difficult for mothers to find professional help, sometimes leading them to seek assistance from neighboring Slovenia. While Lithuanian authorities state that home births require a contract with licensed providers, only two companies currently hold the necessary licenses. These services are paid for by the mother, and medical facilities must be ready to transport the mother and baby to a hospital if complications arise. In contrast, Austria sees about 1.5% of planned births occurring at home, with medical professionals making the final decision. Spain also has a long-standing tradition of home births, with a stable number of births reported, though concerns have been raised about unqualified mothers advising others on home birth.
