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Research Article: Out-of-hospital births and neonatal outcomes: a retrospective cohort study from a level IV NICU and review of regulatory frameworks

Date Published: 2026-08-28

Abstract:
Out-of-hospital births have increased in the United States, yet their neonatal safety remains debated, particularly in states with lower midwifery integration. This study aimed to describe neonatal outcomes following out-of-hospital births, compare home vs. birth center deliveries, and evaluate birth center features associated with neonatal transfers. We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a Texas Level IV NICU which included 226 neonates admitted post-out-of-hospital births (2020–2024). Analysis included electronic record derived outcomes and resource utilization, supplemented by surveys of six regional birth centers on staffing, equipment, protocols, and transfers. Birth centers had more admissions (48.7% vs. 43.8% home births), but home-born infants showed worse outcomes: median NICU LOS (11.5 vs. 5 days), prolonged antibiotics (median 2 vs. 1d), Mortality (6% vs. 1.8%). Surveys revealed substantial variability: all centers screened for GBS, but only half mandated prophylaxis; 50% had IVs; there was no access to defibrillators. Hospital distance averaged 3.15 miles (travel time ?12?min), yet transfer delays were common due to late recognition of complications. Neonates from out-of-hospital births exhibited elevated morbidity, mortality, and healthcare utilization. Standardized safety protocols, enhanced regulatory oversight, and improved emergency preparedness are needed, especially in states like Texas with lower midwifery integration.

Introduction:
In high-income countries, planned out-of-hospital births have risen steadily due to a preference for physiologic labor and concerns over excessive medical intervention ( 1 – 3 ). In the United States, the proportion of such births increased from 0.87% in 2004 to 1.3% in 2017, with the most rapid growth in rural counties ( 2 , 20 , 23 ). Leading organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend hospital settings for birth,…

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