Why Suffer When You Don't Have To?

Natural birth mamas stand out a little don't you think?  And when it is made know that we are interested in/obsessed with/or preaching natural childbirth, sometimes the response is this:

"Why go through all that suffering and pain when you don't have to?"

Almost any woman who has planned a natural birth has heard this question.  What is the point of going without drugs when they are available?  Would you have a cavity drilled without painkillers?

This statement, though it seems to make sense, is wrong on many levels. 

First, it assumes that labor and birth is in and of itself painful to the point that suffering occurs.  I looked up the definition and the first one I found for suffering is this, : "agony, an acute state of pain."

I have met many natural birth mamas who firmly state that their birth was absolutely PAINLESS.  I personally did not feel like my first birth was ever really painful, and I never felt like I was suffering at all.  I mentioned this to my husband a few months afterwards and he laughed in my face!  I looked to him like I was in a LOT of pain.  Birth certainly looks painful to the outside observer, especially if that observer is a man and has never experienced joyful birth.  (He claims that time had altered my memory of the event and there may be some truth to that.)

The second assumption that this statement makes is that pain equals suffering.  Pain in birth, when it occurs, is simply your body telling you something.  Now when you have a headache you can take a pill to numb that pain.  One other option you have is to look at what might be causing that pain.  Do you need to eat, drink, sleep or stop yelling at your husband?

If and when you experience pain in birth or labor it is not the moment to beg for drugs, it is the moment to examine what is going on.  Is this position bad?  Are you surrounded by people you don't want there?  Do you need to move?  Do you need to back off the pushing?  Pain when it does occur is simply your body talking to you, it is not your body screaming "give me drugs now!".  Listen to it. 

Is labor suffering?  Oh, this is a good one!  Sometimes women do suffer in birth, but they don't have to.  I was at a friends home birth once and I said something to the midwife about how I knew a woman who got an epidural because her husband did not like to watch her suffer.  The midwife was pissed!  She was adamant that this mama we were with was not suffering at all.  She was surrounded by people who loved her and supported her.  She might not be comfortable every second.  The experience might be harder than she had ever imagined.  But she was enveloped in love, security and support.  Suffering had nothing to do with this birth. 

So, why go through the suffering of natural birth if you can so easily numb yourself?  So many reasons!  But most important, because it is not suffering.  Natural birth is a gift to the mother, her baby, and her entire family.  Going through the entire process without anything to "numb the pain" makes the end that much sweeter. 

Mother's and Infant Mortality Rates-

Maternal Mortality 

Rates are per 100,000 

2003.....................  12.1 

2002.....................  8.9 

2001.....................  9.9

2000.....................  9.8 

1999.....................  9.9 

1998.....................  7.1 

1997.....................  8.4 

1996.....................  7.6 

1995.....................  7.1

1994.....................  8.3 

1993.....................  7.5

2005  All live births:              Infant          neonatal        postnatal     

4,138,573               28,384          18,782          9,602

(infant, before first year,     neonatal, birth through 27 days,    postnatal, 28 days to under 1 year) 

All statistics from the CDC website 

An Interview With Layla

Welcome to another interview with one of our readers.  Today you will get to meet Layla.  I have to admit I love these interviews.  It is just awesome to get to know these like minded mothers from around the country and the world.  Isn't it amazing how we can touch each others lives through the Internet?  

Enjoy!

I love birth stories, so to introduce yourself, give us a brief synopsis of your births and how they affected you.
I'm Layla and I'm a reader from the UK.  I knew even before I got pregnant that I wanted my birth to be as natural as possible, although I wasn't sure I'd be able to manage it.  I took some classes which gave me good information about the pain relief on offer, and enabled me to make informed choices.  I decided to go to hospital for the birth, but hoped to have a drug free, active labour.

Two days after my due date I started having mild contractions.  These continued all day, becoming stronger late that night.  I got up and had a long bath.  A four hour long bath in fact.  The water really soothed me and in the still, quiet house I felt I was preparing my mind for what was to come.  Looking back, it amazes me that I wasn't nervous.  It's true how our bodies take over from our brains during labour if we'll let them.   I woke my husband just before dawn and we spent a day together breathing through contractions.  I was using a TENS machine at this point which I think really helped.

Once in hospital, my contractions spaced out again and I started to panic.  The pain was growing and I began to feel out of control.  Thankfully, a midwife suggested using a birthing pool.  While I was pregnant I had discounted the idea as I thought it would get icky and I wanted to be able to walk about.  By this point I felt I could hardly stand, so I jumped at the chance.  Looking back, I was so scared at that point, I would probably have accepted any pain relief offered.  Thank goodness she had read my birth plan.  Although I hadn't mentioned a birth pool, I had said I wanted to try to keep my labour drug free.

On getting in to the pool, my pain melted away.  The contractions were still painful, but manageable, and in between I could chat with the midwife and my husband.  The lighting was low and the room was warm and comfortable.  I was amazed at how little intervention there was.  I was checked once, but apart from that the only things the midwife did were to check the baby's heart beat and the water temperature.  After 7 hours of active labour and half an hour of pushing the head was crowning.  Despite the advice to push gently to stop myself tearing, I gave an almighty push and my baby, Alice, was born.  I lifted her put of the water and cuddled her, bursting into tears.  It is still such a treasured moment seeing her rush into the world.  I can never forget that image.

We waited until the cord stopped pulsing before cutting the cord.  The placenta was born shortly afterwards without me needing an injection.  I immediately put my baby to my breast and she latched on well, although hiccups kept interrupting her for a while!

What first got you interested in a natural lifestyle or natural birth?
I've always been amazed at the process of pregnancy and birth.  It seemed like the most natural thing and I didn't want that to be interfered with.  Since having my baby, those feelings have intensified and I'm working on living a more sustainable life.

What subject would you say you are most passionate about (circumcision, birth, vaccines, etc) and why?
Probably breastfeeding.  I have been very fortunate that I have had a good experience and my family and most of my friends have been totally supportive.  It really saddens me, however, that some people object to seeing a mother nursing her child in public and makes me even more determined to do it.  I'm planning to allow Alice to self wean, but already at 9 months I have had some comments about her being too big to still be breastfeeding.  I hope, in a very small way, that by discussing the facts about breastfeeding with those around me, and by continuing to feed her in public as long as she wants to, I will be helping to encourage others to give it a try and to stick with it

How do you incorporate your passions into your lifestyle through work or education? (ie doula work, childbirth education, blogging, or just talking to friends.)
I volunteer with a charity that promotes sustainable living.  They've been fantastic about allow me to come along with Alice in tow.  At the moment, I feel like I am absorbing so much new information.  Having a child and the actual process of giving birth has made me view life differently, so I spend as much time as I can researching and reading about ways to live life more naturally.  I'm hoping to set up a local group to discuss natural childbirth and attachment parenting.

What are some of your favorite resources for new mothers? (books, web sites, etc)
Finding the books by Dr Sears has made a big difference to me.  I've also found The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by Judy Torgus has some fantastic advice and encouragement.  Finally, Three in a Bed - The Benefits of Sleeping With Your Baby by Deborah Jackson gave me the information I needed to answer those who were concerned at our decision to share a bed with Alice.


My pregnancy was tough.  I had hyperemesis until 24 weeks, then shortly after started having fainting fits due to the position of the baby.  I was unable to get up without having someone with me.   It wasn't how I had hoped my pregnancy would go, and I admit that I thought my body wasn't doing what it should be.  As soon as my contractions started, those thoughts melted away and I realised that I was able to have this baby without intervention.  It was hugely empowering.  I felt after the birth that I had changed deeply as a person.  I'd become a mother and I was surprised to find that rather than finding the responsibility scary, it felt like I'd become what I'd always wanted to be. 

What do you see as the biggest challenge/problem in obstetrics today and how do you think it could/should change? How are you trying to bring about change.
My personal experience of birth in hospital was fantastic. Everyone read my birth plan without me asking them to, and they all worked to ensure that we stuck to it.  The after care however was less good.  I encountered lots of outdated views and wasn't allowed to sleep in the same bed as my baby.  I would like to see mothers encouraged to have as much skin to skin contact with their babies as possible after birth and that non urgent checks should come second to that.  I'd also like to see staff who are well trained in supporting breastfeeding.  I talk to anyone who'll listen, and quite a few who won't, about the importance of mother's instinct in childbirth and raising a baby.

Share with us you blog or web site so everybody can get to know you better!http://thegoodenoughparent.blogspot.com/

Website With Video

Discovered this cool website with lots of info and video-

Check it out here!

High Protein Without All the Dead Animals

I am a big fan of shooting for 100 grams of protein a day while pregnant.  There are a lot of reasons for this.  The first is that I can see what a huge difference it makes for me in the way I feel while I am pregnant when I follow the Brewer Diet.  It makes sense.  It makes for healthy moms and babies and it works!  A pregnant woman can and should look healthy and radiant.  Sadly, so many pregnant women are eating so badly and taking such horrible low grade prenatal vitamins that they look pale, they are constipated, they have no energy, and they are simply sick for what can be a wonderful time of life.

I have been there too because of lack of money or knowledge - but I know that you can feel great pregnant and it really just takes a healthy diet.

That being said I am not a big fan of meat nor do I handle dairy very well.  I have also had people mention to me that the high protein diet is just too much animal fat.  It does not have to be.  (Though I would point out that healthy fats from natural sources -nothing hydrogenated- are essential for you and your baby.)  Here are some tips and samples on how to eat well without tons of meat in your diet- and feel great.  Please note also that I am not discouraging the total Brewer diet- I think it works, but have had many people say that they want more raw stuff and less meat in their diet.  I think Dr Brewer was ahead of his time and probably saved countless lives with his diet.


(I am not a nutritionist or doctor- nor is this meant as medical advice- of course talk to your care provider and do your own research.)

Breakfast:
Green smoothie- 3 kale leaves, 1 or 2 bananas, 2 tablespoons black strap molasses, a tablespoon of coconut oil, a few tablespoons of wheat germ, a handful of sesame seeds and 1 or 2 scoops protein (you can get raw rice protein if you prefer it over whey- though whey isolate will have about double the protein- I want to note that you should not be getting your protein just from a supplement like this, I just include this as an option because I am trying to show an example of a high protein without tons of meat.  The point is not just the protein but also all the other nutrients that go along with the protein in a healthy diet, ie. fats, amino acids, etc.  That being said there are some good even raw sources of rice protein out there available.  Just don't depend on them for all your protein needs. )  and ice and a liquid like water, juice or almond milk or regular milk if you like dairy. -
2 boiled eggs
(about 30 grams protein, green serving, fruit serving and the molasses has iron, vitamin A in your eggs)Your protein will be higher if you use milk or add yogurt or powdered dry milk to your smoothie. 

Snack:
1 cheese stick
1 citrus fruit
(citrus, and 7 grams protein)

Lunch:
1 cup granola with almond milk, topped with 1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds topped with berries or banana
(about 20 grams protein, you are also getting a fruit serving and whole grain servings)  Your protein will be higher if you use dairy in the form of milk or yogurt instead of the almond milk.

Snack:
22 raw almonds, chopped celery with organic peanut putter -2 Tbs-
(14 grams of protein and a vegetable serving)

Dinner:
Black beans and brown rice in corn tortillas.  Top with tomatoes, greens, onions, and cheese and sour cream for some more protein and fat.
(about 20 grams protein in the rice and beans if you have 1 cup of each, more if you add cheese and sour cream, you are also getting some of your grains, vegetables, and greens)

After dinner snack:
Air popped organic popcorn topped with butter or olive oil, salt and Brewers Yeast- I like the Twin Lab Green Label Brewers Yeast- yummy on popcorn or you can stir it into orange juice in the morning.
(Grain serving, fat, and Brewers yeast which is full of amino acids and makes me feel wonderful!!)

This sample diet gives you over 90 grams of protein with lots of raw foods, lots of grains and vegetables and no meat.  If you add some meat to your beans and rice or one piece of chicken to your lunch you will get a lot more protein.

I want to point out that Ina May Gaskin (a vegetarian) also encourages a diet of at least 70 grams of protein a day and Birthing From Within encourages 100 grams of protein a day.  A healthy diet with about 100 grams of protein, green vegetables, other colored vegetables, fruit, citrus fruit, whole grains, salt to taste and water to thirst is essential to a great pregnancy.

As a side note- eggs are a wonderful, cheap and absorbable source of protein.  They can be easily added to almost anything baked and are great for snacking or boiled and put on top of a salad.  An egg has everything in it to grow a baby chicken and they are great for baby humans too.  If you can afford it free range organic eggs are the best!

A Perfect Baby- Birth Story

I love this birth story from one of our Mama Birth fans. You might remember her from her interview a few weeks ago.  It is a little different than the other ones we have had so far but that is one of the things that makes it so incredible.  I love how this birth goes from being a planned medicated birth to something empowering for the mama.  Birth changes us!   

Enjoy! 

Monday night I got to the hospital at 6:00 to start my induction. (I had developed pre-eclampsia.)  The nurse I had was the same one that took care of me when I was in with contractions at 32 weeks.  She was wonderful.  Another nurse came in to get an IV in me (not started, just get it in so they could hook it up later) and she blew the vein.  Ouch! Thankfully she got another nurse right away to try it on my other arm.  After answering all their questions and getting hooked up to monitors she checked to see if I was dilated and I was 1 cm.  She inserted the Cervidel (which was VERY uncomfortable) at 7:10. 

The rest of the night was very uncomfortable.  The cervidel made me have contractions and I could not get comfortable.  Every time I tried to move around the nurse would have to come back in and readjust the monitors.  I think I slept about an hour that night. 

My parents arrived early at the hospital the next morning.  I was so relieved to see them!  At 7:00 a.m. the nurse removed the cervidel and let me get up and take a shower.  That felt great!  I was so uncomfortable from the contractions but was still only 1 cm.  Ugh!  About 8:00 my doctor came in to see me.  He said they were going to start the Pitocin and break my water soon.

The nurse started the Pitocin drip at 8:34 a.m.  The contractions increasingly got worse and by 10:30 I was so uncomfortable.  She checked me again and STILL only 1 c.m.  She said she could get the anesthesiologist to come give me my epidural  and then she would break my water.  I was so scared to get the epi.  But it actually wasn't bad at all!!  The nurse broke my water and said I was 3 cm.  Finally, some progress! My nurse told me that my doctor had called and said he was going to be the one to deliver me no matter what time it was.  He was supposed to be off at 5:00 and the on-call doctor would have delivered, but he said he would be there regardless.  The nurse asked me if I knew him other than just being his patient because he did not do that often.  I didn't, but it meant the world to me that he was going to be there.

After the epi I felt great.  I told Jay we could have as many kids as we wanted because I could totally handle this.  (Ha! I jinxed myself right there...) I was able to take a nap and the nurse would come in every once in awhile and help me turn sides so the epi would work.  The next time she checked me I was 5 cm.

Around 3:00 I fell asleep and when I woke up I was having strong pains in my back.  I realized it was 4:15 and I was still on the same side.  I called my nurse to tell her about the pain and asked her to help me move.  She came in and apologized and said the woman in the room next to me had just delivered.  I switched sides and immediately felt more pain.  I told her and she said I should feel pressure but not contractions.  Oh no, these were STRONG contractions.  She was surprised I could feel them.  She tried giving my epi a "boost" but it didn't work.  She checked me and said, "You're ready to go."  I was like "what?!" I went from 5 to 10 cm so quickly.  She said there wasn't time for the anesthesiologist to come and give me any more medication, that it was time for me to push. I was actually fine with that, I just wanted him out. It seemed like a whirlwind as they moved everything around in the room to get set up.  They called my dr and he said he would be over soon.  Both of my parents had been standing outside the room, thankfully, because I wanted my mom in there and I was afraid she wasn't there.  I had told her to leave and get lunch earlier when things were so slow and I was napping.  My dad came in quickly and kissed my forehead and told me everything was going to be okay.  I knew it was more for his sake than mine that he said that, because there were tears in his eyes when he left.

I started pushing at 4:35.  Oh my gosh it was so painful.  The contractions made me feel like I was going to pass out and vomit all at the same time.  I ended up with oxygen which helped.  My mom and Jay were there in the room.  At 4:50 my nurse called my dr and said he needed to get there NOW.  They told me I could push through 2 more contractions and then I would have to wait for my dr.  No way!!  It hurt so badly and pushing helped.  Thankfully my doctor got there in time for me to keep pushing.  I could tell when his head finally came out, and all I wanted to do was keep pushing.  Waiting for another contraction seemed like a lifetime.  Finally at 5:17 p.m.  Oliver was born.  It was the biggest relief to feel him come out.  They immediately put him on my chest and all I could do was cry and say, "My baby, my baby".  The stupid oxygen mask was still on and my mom finally took it off so I could kiss him. 

It was honestly the most amazing feeling I have ever experienced.  I would do it again 100 times over just to have that feeling.  I just cannot describe it.  The nurse took him to get cleaned up and check his breathing.  He was doing this thing they called "singing" which was a strange noise when he cried.  They brought in a NICU nurse to check him but thankfully they said he was ok, they would just monitor it.  He weighed 6 lbs 14 oz and was 19 1/4 inches long.  I couldn't believe how tiny he was!!  I remember asking if he had red hair and they said yes, I was so excited.

When they had taken him and put him in the little bassinet under the heat light and were cleaning him off, I remember looking over to see what his feet looked like.  I had spent so many days and nights praying that if it was God's will than Oliver would not have clubbed feet.  When I saw that they were clubbed my heart fell for just a second.  I felt so blessed to have my baby alive and healthy, but so sad to see his little feet.  Jay was over by him holding the baby book so that we could get his footprints.  The nurse said she would get them the best she could and asked if we had known this.  Through tears I nodded yes.  I think all babies look fragile, especially at first, but I felt like his feet were super-fragile.  I was scared it would hurt him to be swaddled or touched.  I remember thinking, "God, why didn't you answer my prayers?"  And it was like God spoke straight to my heart and said, "I did answer them; its just not in the way you expected.  And you may never understand the reason why Oliver has this condition, but that doesn't mean I didn't hear you."  It was a very spiritual moment for me.

My dad and Jay's parents were allowed to come in shortly after that and see him.  I felt so much relief.  I had torn (2nd degree) but thankfully it hasn't been that bad at all.  I had some cramping that night but other than that no real after pains.  My nurse apologized again for my epidural not working properly and said if I hadn't been so far along when she checked she could have gotten it fixed.  Honestly, I am glad it worked out the way it did.  The epi got me through the painful contractions that lasted the afternoon and I was able to rest.  The painful contractions later helped me push.  I wouldn't go back and change it even if I could.

So that's my super-long birth story... It was the most wonderful experience of my life.  I feel so blessed that I had a wonderful doctor that kept such a close eye on me and knew when it was safe to bring my baby into this world.  I hope that he is able to deliver all of my babies.  I can't believe how perfect my little baby is; I never imagined it could be this good.

Preparing For Your Childbirth Class-6, Second Stage or Pushing

Ay Ay Ay- it seems like there is a controversy about everything when it comes to childbirth!  I was not able to find a good link that I totally agreed with about second stage so here is a quick summary from me!

Second stage labor is the time where you have reached full dilation and your contractions space out again and become expulsive.  Women usually feel an urge to push sometime after reaching 10 centimeters dilation.  Some will say don't push your baby, let it be born gently.  Some will say push will all your might as soon as you hit that magic 10.  Well, I say listen to your body.  It should be the one to tell you what to do.

The urge is different for everybody.  Go with what you are given.  If you have incorporated the exercises into your lifestyle then all the various positions you can push in should be second nature by now.  Push to the point of comfort.  Holding your breath, should you so desire, will give you more power in your pushes.

Second stage takes stamina, especially for the first time mom who often pushes longer than a woman who has had multiple children.  Walking, though difficult while pregnant will pay off now.  As will staying off your couch!!!  Taylor sitting, squatting, and all your other exercises are important.

After second stage comes the third and final stage of labor, birth of the placenta.  As with anything in a NATURAL birth, it is preferable to allow the placenta to deliver naturally.  You can wait till the cord stops pulsing to cut it.  It is even possible to wait until the placenta delivers to cut the cord.

Nursing your baby at this point is important both for bonding and shrinking the uterus and slowing bleeding.  This is natures way of releasing oxytocin, which will help your uterus go back to it's smaller size.  Some care providers give everybody pitocin at this point.  Know that there are natural options for the healthy mother.

Many women barely notice third stage, but it is important.  If you want to keep your placenta for some reason, you may want to let your birth team know that prior to the birth.  It is an amazing organ created by your body!    

On to the next stage of your life!  Parenthood!

Natural Birth Politics

My dad sent this to me and it made me laugh.  I might agree if I hadn't been born via c-section....HAHA! 
Enjoy!

      In a Purdue University classroom, they were discussing the

      qualifications to be President of the United States. It was pretty

      simple the candidate must be a natural born citizen of at least 35 years

      of age. 


      However, one girl in the class immediately started in on how unfair was

      the requirement to be a natural born citizen. In short, her opinion was

      that this requirement prevented many capable individuals from becoming president.


      The class was taking it in and letting her rant, and not many jaws hit

      the floor when she wrapped up her argument by stating 


      "What makes a natural born citizen any more qualified to lead this

      country than one born by C-section?" 

 

Reader Interviews

Hello Ladies (and Guys)

I am starting weekly interiviews with mamas who read the blog.  It is kind of fun to get to know and learn from each other.  Also, it gives you a chance to share your business, blog, or favorite resources.  So- If you are interested in doing one fill out the questions and e-mail them back to me.  I will try to post them on Fridays. 
When you send the questions let me know if it is OK if I post pictures of you from your blog. 
Thanks!  Looking forward to learning from you.  Here are the questions. 

Thanks for doing an interview for Mama Birth! Feel free to add anything that you feel is relevant or skip what doesn’t apply to you. Also- feel free to let me know if something doesn’t make sense! mamabirth09@yahoo.com
Sarah

I love birth stories, so to introduce yourself, give us a brief synopsis of your births and how they effected you.

What first got you interested in a natural lifestyle or natural birth?

What subject would you say you are most passionate about (circumcision, birth, vaccines, etc) and why?

How do you incorporate your passions into your lifestyle through work or education? (ie doula work, childbirth education, blogging, or just talking to friends.)

What are some of your favorite resources for new mothers? (books, web sites, etc)

What experiences have you had that made you think, changed you deeply, or made you more sensitive to the situations of others. You know what I mean, those humbling, growth experiences.

What do you see as the biggest challenge/problem in obstetrics today and how do you think it could/should change? How are you trying to bring about change.

Share with us you blog or web site so everybody can get to know you better!

C-Section? Your Fault!

Well, you may have noticed that I have been mulling over the ACOG statement on homebirth lately, so excuse my anger and disgust 2 years after it appeared.  I just found it.  Here is a section that I find incredibly, hmmmmm, shall I say, "RUDE".  Why do we let them talk about us like this?

"Advocates cite the high US cesarean rate as one justification for promoting home births. The cesarean delivery rate has concerned ACOG for the past several decades and ACOG remains committed to reducing it, but there is no scientific way to recommend an 'ideal' national cesarean rate as a target goal. In 2000, ACOG issued its Task Force Report Evaluation of Cesarean Delivery to assist physicians and institutions in assessing and reducing, if necessary, their cesarean delivery rates. Multiple factors are responsible for the current cesarean rate, but emerging contributors include maternal choice and the rising tide of high-risk pregnancies due to maternal age, overweight, obesity and diabetes."

Lets look a little closer at this.  First, no "ideal" cesarean rate?  WHAT?  OK, so Dr Bradley, when he was practicing had a c-section rate around 4%.  He took high risk patients, let women go overdue like crazy, and never lost a mother.  NEVER.  And here is the kicker folks, Dr Bradley did almost all natural births, that was his thing, but guess what, ALL the Ob's back then had c-section rates about that low.  

Not only that, but the World Health Organization has stated that (and backed with research) a c-section rate over 15% does more harm than good and should be between 5% and 10%.  (Check above link).

Now lets look at these "multiple factors" contributing to the rising rate (read "Not our fault!!" claims ACOG in doctor speak).  

1) Women want more c-sections.   It is not like we are just giving them out- no! no!- consumer demand is driving this!! 

Here is another quote on this subject, this one actually backed up by research. 

"Despite some professional and mass media discourse about "maternal request" or "patient demand" cesarean when there is no medical indication, just one woman (0.08%) among 1314 survey participants who might have initiated a planned primary cesarean without medical reason did so." (To read the entire link, click here.)  

One woman folks, one.  

2) (This is my favorite one)  Women are FAT and OLD!

Yes ladies, you are having more c-sections because you are overweight and older.  YOUR FAULT.  I feel like I am in grade school playing tag with ACOG and they keep yelling NOT IT.  Fun.  Real fun guys.  

Yes, there is some research showing that older women are much more likely to have a cesarean birth.  I don't know why this is, but I think that it could in part be attributed to older women maybe having a) better insurance and b) being considered "high risk" and then being run through the system with that in mind, essentially being prepped their whole pregnancy for a surgical birth.  

That being said, women under 25 are seeing the greatest increases in their c-section rates.  Click here for more. 

And yes, overweight women are more likely to have a c-section.  Why is this?  Maybe they are less healthy going into a pregnancy.  Maybe they are treated as high risk the entire time and pushed in that direction.  Maybe they are more likely to have body issues and lack confidence in their ability to birth vaginally.  I am honestly not sure.  


I do not however think that these are the real reasons driving the majority of c-sections.  


ACOG is right about one thing though.  Women are the ones with the power to change this rate.  ACOG and their cronies will not do it for us.  They have no reason to.  Not when there is so much more money to be made with c-sections and not when they are running scared from lawyers.  We must educate ourselves and choose safe places to give birth.  


For me that place is as far away as I can get from anybody affiliated with ACOG. 

Ricki Lake Made Me Have a Homebirth

In my spare time as of late I have been mulling over ACOG's statement regarding homebirth. I just can't help myself, so bear with me. Here is a little segment that is particularly offensive.

"Childbirth decisions should not be dictated or influenced by what's fashionable, trendy, or the latest cause célèbre. Despite the rosy picture painted by home birth advocates, a seemingly normal labor and delivery can quickly become life-threatening for both the mother and baby."

Not so surprising is that this statement appeared shortly after the movie The Business of Being Born came out. The movie was made in part by former TV talk show host Ricki Lake who is a homebirth advocate and had her second child at home.

Is ACOG really that worried about women having children at home because a former talk show host makes a small time movie about the joys of homebirth?! Seriously!? (Click here for a little article about the controversy.)

I really liked the movie actually. I own it and have watched it many times. And, truth be told, though it was not a huge hit , I have had a few students mention that they saw that movie and that is what set them on the path towards homebirth.

Homebirth is still small time. If people were swayed by that movie at all it was not because they want to do what the celebrities are doing. It was because Ricki made a good point and she backed it up with research and video.

She showed nurses talking about how EVERYBODY gets pitocin. She talked about the statistics. She interviewed smart, respected, famous people, some in high medical positions, who talked about the safety and benefits of homebirth. And then she was smart enough to show some amazing homebirths. Women birthing squatting in their own dang hallway buck naked instead of strapped to a bed with a stranger staring at their chart.

Women do not want to have a homebirth because Ricki had one, they want to have homebirths because they want a good birth. And they are smart enough to realize that they come few and far between in a hospital.

I do not really believe that ACOG is sincerely worried about women leaving their hospitals in droves because a nineties talk show host thinks it is a good idea. I also do not think they are really concerned with mine or your health and safety. I think they know that birth can be AMAZING. They know it can be CHEAP. They know that they are UNNECESSARY 95% of the time. And that is something they most definitely DO NOT want you to know.

If only Oprah would have a homebirth.....

Ladies, I think we are just going to have to create this change on our own.

Serenity's Birth-

I love this birth from a student and friend of mine!! It is just so fantastic to be part of this fabulous journey called motherhood.  This is the mothers third baby and third unmedicated birth.  I love how it shows one of the most amazing things about the everyday event of birth- it is always sacred.  But my favorite thing about this birth is how mama stayed calm and it kept the birth, the doctors, and the entire situation calm.  Ladies- we have great power over our births if we are educated and advocate for ourselves!!

Enjoy!

This baby has been really active through out the whole pregnancy. So it was no 

shock to me that she would be in a different position at every appointment. She 

has been transverse, breech, and head down. When I was 38 weeks the midwives

and doctor started to get worried that she wouldn't turn in time and/or stay that way

even if she did. (I wasn't worried!) I figured that if she had enough room to move and

flip as often as she does there should be nothing to worry about! 

Yet at 41 weeks she was breech again with low fluids, so I agreed to a version

in the office without any drugs. It worked. The doctor wanted me to start induction 

that day, but I was firm in letting my husband know what was going on and I wanted 

to pray about it and even get a blessing.

I am so grateful for getting a blessing! It was beautiful and helped me be confident in the choices I

made for the labor and delivery of our baby. (I know that it also gave my mom the assurance she 

needed to be able to be calm and help coach me through this time!) My husband has never doubted

that I could do this! :) So grateful that I can count on him to be there and just believe I can do it.

After the baby being in several different positions with each appointment and low fluids.  I finally decided to let them strip the membranes 9 days after their estimated due date.  Labor started within an hour!  With taking Bradley Method classes (which also helped my mom with ideas on how she could help me relax.)  I learned more on how to stay relaxed through the contractions.  I stayed busy and relaxed when I needed to.

My husband and mom were with me helping me whenever I needed them.  Around 7pm we set up someone to come get our daughters.  We relaxed a little while longer at home.  

At the hospital I stayed moving most of the time just to keep things moving along.  Walking the halls with my mom rubbing my back and talking to me with each contraction.  During monitoring us at one point I had a contraction where they lost the heart beat for to long.  I opened my eyes to 4 women standing next to me in a panic.  I told them that "it was just a really good contractions with her stretching out."  (It actually made me laugh at them!)  I felt calm, confident and happy that I could tell them everything was fine!  

Around 2am I felt like they were getting more intense in my back, so I got into the shower.  How lovely that hot water felt hitting my back!  After some time on the birthing ball I felt better pushing some through them, so told them that.  My midwife checked me and I was a stretchy 9cm so I started to push with the contractions.  I got to be empowered and tell them she was fine again while I got ready to push. She had just moved farther into the birth canal and they lost her heart beat again.  And I said "oh she is fine, she just kicked me!"  They seemed to be more calm about it just because I knew she was fine and I wasn't worried!

I believe it took me a handful of pushes to get her head out and one last one for the rest of her!  We had another beautiful baby girl! We got to nursing within 15 minutes of her birth.  We bonded with her for more than an hour before we just had to find out how big she was!  We named her Serenity Noelle. A couple short hours later she got to meet her two big sisters.  I am so happy that I was able to stick up for myself and my little one so well this time around.  And most important, I thank my Father in Heaven for all His help and guidance through this pregnancy.  Maybe next time I will be even braver and go with a HOMEBIRTH!

The Unexpected

There are so many emotions going into a pregnancy.  Excitement for this new person, worry about the unknown, love and awe for the life inside of you, and expectation for something wonderful.

I teach natural childbirth.  I believe in the process and the joy of it.  I have to or I would not bother.  And yet, sometimes things go wrong.

In class we talk about avoiding complications, staying healthy, communicating with your birth team and a million other things.  In essence we try to control all of the factors that we can.  We talk about choosing a care provider, a birth place, practicing relaxation, letting go of any birth fears or mental or emotional barriers that could cause a birth to be more painful or problematic.  But when the day is over, you just can't control everything.

The unexpected sometimes happens.  People make all the right choices and all the right preparations and  a birth can go haywire.  A mom can have a beautiful natural birth and then struggle seemingly endlessly with breastfeeding.  And, even though I teach normality and how rare these things happen, they do sometimes happen.

Having a few students lately whose experiences have been unexpected has made me think.  I wonder if the difference I am trying to make is worth it.  I wonder if talking endlessly about the joys and the wonder of natural childbirth and then having a mom who can not have one, makes her experience worse than it would have been if she had known nothing.

Maybe a mother would be happier with her experience if she really didn't know better.   Maybe a woman is better off if she expects a horrifying experience and then gets one.  At least she was not disappointed.  Maybe a mother is better off if she doesn't really care if breastfeeding works out.  At least she won't beat herself up when things get hard.

But I can not seem to let myself believe such things.

I know it can be wonderful, life changing, powerful and transformative.  I know it in my core.  I know it matters to women.  That is why it hurts so badly to see things go wrong.


I hope that these mamas that I am watching struggle with disappointment and pain and unexpected problems recover.  I hope that it molds them into stronger and better mothers.  I hope I can learn from them and their experiences.

Maybe I need to not just teach women to let go of their control in labor, maybe I need to realize that I can't control their experience either. 

Only Dirty Hippies Birth At Home

I ran into somebody the other day who it turned out was using the same midwife I had for my homebirth. I had met her once before and was really surprised to find that she was planning a homebirth.  I think I even said, "Oh- I wouldn't have pegged you as a homebirth mama." 

Later I realized how biased I was being.  Any type of woman can birth at home.  And it seems to me that more and more of them are.  We (or I) tend to think of people having their babies at home being women who are kind of alternative, maybe braid their hair, use natural deodorant, don't shave, go to chiropractors and all "that stuff".

When I take a step back I realize that I don't even fit all that criteria.  And more and more I am seeing women choose homebirth who I never would have expected to do so.  Women who look "normal".  Women who go to church.  Women who don't dislike modern medicine.  Women who are just your neighbors and friends but want something more than what is offered in hospitals. 

Why are these women choosing homebirth?  When I ask them I find that they just want a natural birth experience.  They feel they will be most comfortable in their own home.  They don't want the interruption of traveling and arriving and checking into the hospital.  Most of all they do not want to be another one of those one in three who have abdominal surgery to remove their baby.  They realize that the "normal" hospital birth is not really that normal and certainly is not natural. 

I love Ina May Gaskin.  I love her books where women talk about feeling "high" while they are in labor. I love hippies.  I have even been called one a time or two.  But what I love even more is that women who appear "normal" and mainstream are choosing homebirth.  I also love that ACOG and all their knife wielding cronies are running a little scared as they start to realize that a tiny minority of women are choosing to birth on their own terms.  They are scared because they realize that we as birthing women have the power to CHANGE OBSTETRICS all on our own.  All we have to do is realize that homebirth is not just for fringe hippies who live on communes, it is for anybody who recognizes the power of their own body. 

Take back your power.  Choose natural birth.

An Attached Mama- Interview With Lyndsey

 I am excited to present our first Mama Birth interview!  This is from Lyndsey, a mom with a fantastic story to share.  I think that she is just really beginning her journey into the addictive world of natural childbirth and all that that includes!  Nobody tell her how crazy we can get!  My favorite thing about this interview and this mama is her incredible way of staying grateful and overcoming life's unexpected situations. 


Enjoy!


I love birth stories, so to introduce yourself, give us a brief synopsis of your births and how they effected you.
My name is Lyndsey, I'm 25 years old and live in Northeast Indiana.  I have a husband of almost 3 years, Jay, and we have one son, Oliver Michael, who is 20 months old.  We are hoping to conceive again late this summer/fall so that we may have another baby next summer.

When I was pregnant with Oliver, I was very scared of what childbirth would be like.  I was scared of any sort of pain, so whether it be pain from natural childbirth or pain from an epidural, I was terrified.  I did not have anyone around me who was supportive of me doing natural childbirth.  Everyone kept saying "Don't try to be a hero, all that matters is you're going to have your baby.  Make it easy on yourself." 

My pregnancy was fairly normal until I was about 29 weeks.  That's when I went into the hospital with contractions.  After getting some medicine to stop them, I was sent home and seen the next day by my OB/GYN.  Because I wasn't working and was able to relax, he sent me home on restrictions. (Not total bed rest, but not lifting anything heavy and rest as much as I could.)  That was fine until I hit 35 weeks.  Overnight I swelled terribly and started having hard contractions again.  When I went for another check-up, I was spilling protein in my urine and my BP was much higher than it had been all throughout my pregnancy.  Home I went on serious bed rest.  A week later I was checked again and I hadn't dilated although my cervix was soft and ripe.  I was still having high BP and protein in my urine, but it wasn't getting any worse.  I spent an afternoon in L&D for observation and was sent home to wait a few more days until I hit 37 weeks.  At 37 weeks 1 Day I spent the night in the hospital with cervidel inserted.  The next morning, on August 26, 2008 the nurses started pitocin at 8:36 a.m.  I trusted my Dr and was OK with his decision to induce.  He asked how I felt about an epidural and I said I didn't care either way.  He suggested getting one to help my BP during the labor.  He wanted me as rested and relaxed as possible.  So at 11:00 a.m. I received an epidural.  afterwards, I felt great.

I took a nap, and around 4:15 I woke up to SEVERE contractions.  I asked the nurse if that was normal and she said she would give it a "boost" which should help.  I explained that this was not just pressure I was feeling, these were painful contractions.  I knew something wasn't right.  She agreed, and when the "boost" of epidural didn't work, she said she was going to call the anesthesiologist back up to re-do the epidural.  As she started to walk out the door, she turned back and said, "Wait, I need to check how dilated you are.  She'll want to know that."  Low and behold, I was 10 cm; no time for another epidural.

I was terrified.  This meant I would be able to feel everything.  Everything happened so quickly as they prepped to get me ready to push.  At 5:17 p.m. Oliver Michael, my firstborn, precious son, was born.  He was 6 lbs 14 oz, 19.25" long and healthy.  They called in NICU nurses to check his breathing because something didn't sound right at first, but everything ended up being OK.  He was born with clubfeet, a condition where his feet were turned completely in at a 90* angle.  But to my eyes, he was absolutely perfect.

I felt great after the delivery.  I had a 2nd degree tear from the delivery, but after delivering the placenta and receiving a few stitches, I was able to get up, go to the bathroom, and eat.  We stayed in the hospital for 48 hours after which we got to come home and this new season in our lives.


What first got you interested in a natural lifestyle or natural birth?

Before Oliver was born, I was interested in natural birth but didn't think I could do it.  After having my epidural go wrong and delivering without any meds, I am very interested in doing it completely natural next time.  Now that I know I can, I'm all for it! 

What subject would you say you are most passionate about (circumcision, birth, vaccines, etc) and why?I'm most interested in attachment parenting, does that count? :)    I believe it started when we chose to "room-in" with Oliver in the hospital.  He was rarely out of our sight.  That continued when we came home.  From the first day that we were home with Oliver I wore him in a sling.  He wasn't in a stroller of any kind until he was about 9 months old!  I never took his infant carrier car seat indoors, I always wore him.  I still enjoy wearing him.  We also co-sleep.  The first week we were home my husband wasn't comfortable with it, and we spent many nights in a recliner with Oliver on our shoulders.  When he was 8 days old he had his first set of casts on to begin the correction of his clubfeet.  Neither my husband nor myself could stand the thought of him being away with us and in pain, so Oliver spent his first night in our bed.  He hasn't left yet, ha ha.

Because of certain medication I was taking after Oliver's birth, I was unable to breastfeed him.  I was torn up about it and it led me to a deep depression.  After seeing my OB/GYN when Oliver was about 3 months old, I began seeing a psychiatrist.  I have expressed my interest to breastfeed our future children to my OB and he is very willing to help make that happen.  I did everything I could to feed Oliver in as "natural" of a way as possible.  I fed him on demand, always held him closely and skin-to-skin when I fed him, and I was usually the one doing the feedings.
I feel so passionately about attachment parenting because I saw first-hand how happy of a baby Oliver was.  He rarely needed to cry because I was always there, and was able to meet his needs before he got too upset.  I felt so passionately about attachment parenting because I felt it was the best way to parent a child.  As a Christian, I felt privileged that God would give me this child to raise.  Just as I feel the Lord hears me and answers me when I ask for His help, I would be there for Oliver when he needed mine.  Helping my child feel secure and happy was, and still is,  my top priority.  Even now, as Oliver approaches 2 years old, I can see the benefit of our investment of attachment parenting.  Oliver is a happy, secure toddler.


How do you incorporate your passions into your lifestyle through work or education? (ie doula work, childbirth education, blogging, or just talking to friends.)
I have exposed many of my friends to baby wearing and have helped them find baby carriers that fit them and their needs.  I've shared my experience of co-sleeping, and although I have gotten much criticism for it, I've also found out that more people do it than you would think!  I don't keep up on my blog as much as I would like, but I've always been very open about our lifestyle.


What are some of your favorite resources for new mothers? (books, web sites, etc)My absolute favorite books are the Dr. Sears books.  All of them!  Askdrsears.com is also an excellent source.  I also enjoy the book "Attached at the Heart" by Barbara Nicholson and Lysa Parker.


What experiences have you had that made you think, changed you deeply, or made you more sensitive to the situations of others regarding a natural lifestyle. You know what I mean, those humbling, growth experiences.

My birth changed me deeply.  It made me realize that childbirth can be done naturally, no matter what others say or how many others get epidurals.  When I received my epidural I thought for sure I would be going through the birth feeling little pain.  How wrong I was! :)  But I also realized that I was stronger than I ever thought possible.  So I see both sides of the coin: I understand why some choose the epidural; I also can support those who choose to go naturally.

My story with Oliver and his feet is a whole other subject in itself that I could go on and on about.  But I will say this: having a baby that others saw as "not perfect" changed my life.  I now can relate to others who have children that have difficulties.  I can give them encouragement and hope and show them that my son is now walking and running and you would never know he was crippled at birth! 

What do you see as the biggest challenge/problem in obstetrics today and how do you think it could/should change? How are you trying to bring about change.
I think the biggest challenge for obstetrics today is their quick dismissal of natural childbirth.  I don't remember ever being encouraged to do natural childbirth.  Perhaps if I had more strongly expressed my interest...I just remember hearing the stats of the high number of women who do go get epidurals.  I hope that by going through with natural childbirths with my future children I can encourage others.  I do think that women should have the option and be educated.  But I think the education should be equal for both natural births and medicated births.

Share with us you blog or web site so everybody can get to know you better!
I don't keep up on my blog as much as I should, but I do have one:  http://adaywithmama.blogspot.com.  I also have a blog that shows my cakes and cookies that I do from my home at:  http://blessedcakes.blogspot.com

What To Do When Your Friend is Having a "GASP" HOMEBIRTH!!!

Well first- I must admit that I too am one of those nutty homebirth-ers but I am here to walk you through the process of dealing with your friend and her crazy choice.  I am probably on the other side of the spectrum- sometimes I look like the woman above when I hear that somebody has already scheduled their c-section and they are only 32 weeks along....

I know you have heard many freaky stories about how scary and painful birth is.  Maybe you have even had one of these experiences.   These tips should help anyway.  

ONE-  Homebirth is actually relatively safe.  

In fact, for a low risk woman it is as safe as a hospital  birth, with the main difference being less interventions and a mom that is happier with the outcome than the usual hospital birth mom.   Most well intentioned friends and family of a homebirth mom are usually mostly worried that something will go terribly wrong and because they are not in a hospital, somebody will be hurt that didn't have to be.  Here is an article with research showing how safe a planned homebirth actually is.  

The truth is that a good homebirth midwife does not just show up with a stick and some hot towels.  She comes with everything from oxygen, to an IV to medications to stop hemorrhage (one of the biggest risks for a mom).  A good midwife should also arrive with years of experience, schooling and hundreds of births under her belt.  She also comes with another midwife in case something were to go wrong, there would be somebody to attend to both mother and baby.    

In general, things in birth go wrong slowly, with time to transfer.  Rarely do things go so wrong so quickly that being at home is fatal.   Important to remember also- when birth is left alone, things often go just fine. 

TWO-  Your homebirth friend is most likely well informed.  

Having a homebirth is actually a pretty big responsibility.  Most often, homebirth mom's do lots of research and preparation for the experience.  They don't  have the option of just sitting back and trusting that their care provider will take care of everything.  They are an integral player (in fact THE player) in this whole process.  They know what kind of choice they are making.  They know the risks, and they know the benefits.  This mama has decided because of many factors, and lots of thought, research, and prayer, that homebirth is the best option for her birth. 

Instead of fearing for her, you can rest assured that she probably knows more about the normal process of birth than most women who deliver in a hospital.  She is making a conscious, thoughtful choice. 


THREE- Your friend's homebirth choice is not a judgment of your choices in birth. 

Maybe your friend does actually think she is better than you because she is choosing a homebirth, but most likely, she is just excited about sharing the knowledge that she is gathering.  She does not necessarily think that you or everybody should have a homebirth.  She just thinks that she should, and that it is the best option for her. 

Please, don't assume that there is any judgment implied because her choice is different than the vast majority of other people.  I have had babies in a hospital, a birth center, and at home.  I made different choices each time based on many factors.  I would never tell somebody where they should give birth.  That is up to them.  In fact forcing or coercing anther's birth choice is very much against all of my beliefs about birth.  Choice is one of the reasons I chose homebirth, and it is a thing to be protected, no matter what choices people make. 

Conclusion- 

In the end, it doesn't really matter what you think (did that sound harsh?).  This choice is up to each individual woman.  Friends do not really want to be judged by one another, they just want to be loved, supported and trusted.   That is what your friend needs from you right now, even if you are scared for her.  I am so often saddened when talking to homebirth mamas who are scared to mention their choice to family and friends.  What a sad state that they feel that those who love them the most actually want them to fail!   How distressing that they can not share such a deeply personal choice with those around them because of fear of judgment.  So- root for her and hope for the best.  And instead of worrying, do some of your own reading, you just might realize why she is choosing a homebirth. 

Abigail's Birth- NOT at Target!

This is the sister birth story from our fabulous birth from last week.  I love this story too!  I love how it showcases how deeply important a good birth team is and how quick and beautiful a fearless birth can be.  

Enjoy! 

Abigail

I woke up at about 4 AM to Matthew squeaking in his bed (he makes funny noises when he is in that 'between sleep and awake' state). I went in to check on him and while sitting on the floor next to his bed I had my first 'real' contraction. I went to the bathroom and then got back in bed, only to get up again because I had to pee again. I had a couple more contractions in the process of all this and figured that the time had finally come (I officially hit 41 weeks that morning). I climbed in bed and was just sitting there because I was contracting again when DH woke up. I told him what had been happening and he got up to find the stopwatch so we could see how far apart they were. They were coming pretty close together - about seven minutes apart, and were just over a minute long. It was about 4:30 so we decided to give M (my midwife) a call. Because of how quickly labor with Matthew went, she decided to head our way right away (she was coming from about 45 minutes away). She called P, my other midwife, on the way. We also called my friend Leigh Anne, who is training to become a doula and who had offered to be here for any support we needed, as well as to watch Matthew. She arrived first, and not far behind was M and then P.

My contractions at this point were about 4 minutes apart and still only a minute long. They weren't too painful, but I was having some Pelvic/Hip pain during them, which was not pleasant. DH and Leigh Anne traded off providing counter-pressure during contractions, which helped immensely. M did a pelvic exam and I was dialated to a 6 between contractions and a 9 during, so we knew the baby would be here soon.

Matthew woke up at about 5:30 and was perfectly content to hang out in the living room with Leigh Anne and his toys. He would come back to the bedroom occasionally, just to see what was up, but didn't really care about staying. He did so well the entire time, and I'm so proud of him.

P suggested that if I push during my next big contraction, my water would most likely break and the baby would probably come quickly after. I followed her suggestion, and my water broke during the next one. I was in something of a supported squat position, leaning on DH's arms, and dropped to my knees right after my water broke. I leaned back on my legs and could feel the baby's head crowning. P knew it was right there and told me to reach down and touch my baby's head. With two pushes her head was born, and one more brought the rest of her. DH was there to catch her, along with M, and they placed her on my chest. My baby was finally here, and it was a girl!

I have a video of this moment that I wish all expecting or hopeful moms could see. Matthew's birth was so hectic because of it's 'location,' and this birth was so peaceful. The only sounds on the video are of some minor chatting between my midwife and husband, and the sound of my breathing. Then, as the baby crowned, there is only the sound of me breathing, and then the awe when she emerged. It was a beautiful silence. Thanks to my mom, husband, and midwives, I've really always known that birth didn't have to be full of fear and screaming like it is on TV, but I never realized it could be so peaceful and beautiful.

P draped a towel over over the baby and I and rubbed her down. She was breathing great, crying occasionally, and squirming like a madwoman. She was beautiful, with dark blue eyes and short brown hair. Despite all our efforts prior to the birth, we didn't have a name right away, but 'Baby Girl' was just fine with me for the time being - I was just happy she was here.

Within a few minutes I delivered the placenta and DH cut the cord. I moved the baby further up on my chest and she nursed a little bit right away. Matthew came in the room and DH brought him over to meet the baby. We moved to the bed to get comfortable and just hung out there for a while. I had torn a bit, so M stitched me up. My midwives cleaned the baby up and did her newborn exam. She is so strong - when M turned her over to her tummy for part of the exam, she actually lifted herself up on her hands and knees and tried to scoot away.  DH dressed her and then we all cuddled as a family.

My midwives were great, and so was Leigh Anne. Everything was cleaned up, laundry was washing, and the baby was sleeping before everyone had gone. Leigh Anne stayed for a while to entertain Matthew for a bit longer. She also made some food for us and cleaned up the kitchen. It was wonderful to have such great help. Mom flew in that night, and we were just content to hang out for a few days and relax.

Things really couldn't have gone better. Abby's birth was beautiful and empowering and all around amazing! We are thrilled that our little one finally made her appearance, and that she is a she.