I did not have a natural birth but a lot of my friends have. They recommend having a lot of options at hand. Birthing ball, birthing tub, midwife definitely (and a doula, especially if the midwife is very busy and may not be there for the beginning of labor), they can teach the husband different massage techniques and where to put pressure on the back. Also, be near a hospital. Things can, and do happen. My friend lost her baby three weeks ago through home birth. The midwife was extremely experienced and said we need to go to the hospital now, but it was 45 minutes away, and by the time they got there it was too late. I'd say definitely weigh the risks, and if you are far from the hospital I definitely wouldn't recommend it. I would caution not to do a home birth because you want the experience, do it because you think it is healthier for the baby. Things do happen, and be prepared for the worst, even if it probably won't happen.