Out-of-hospital births and the supply of maternity units in France

► We studied how maternity unit supply affects rates of out-of-hospital births. ► Rates increased with distance from a woman's home to the closest maternity unit. ► The role of distance was stronger for women who had several previous deliveries. ► Rates were higher in both low and high social classes and in rural areas. ► Long distances should be a concern for doctors, health planners and pregnant women.