Reflecting on the place of birth…and death

Abstract

This reflection is intended to offer an alternative debate about place of birth. it explores similarities in the arguments regarding place of birth and place of death in the UK, drawing attention to common aspects of these two unique events, both of which now tend to occur in hospital, rather than at home. as made explicit by the Department of Health, everyone has the right to choose where to give birth and where to die. This article touches on the complexity of the right to informed choice to suggest that other more fundamental rights are involved: a safe and positive birthing experience and a ‘good death’.