On Childbirthing

Hospital Births-

We are fortunate in this day and age that we mothers can give birth in American hospitals with the full support of the latest technology and and advancements in western medicine. If anything would go wrong during the child-birthing, I have full confidence that the doctors and medical staff with take care of my child and me. I know that when I was born, it was by c-section because there were complications and I was not turned around the right way. I may not have been born if it weren't in a modern hospital. That being said, I think it is a shame that the birthing is always done in such a sterile and clinical manner. And I would hate the idea of forceps being used to pull my newborn out my by body with brutal force. Yuck.

Water Births-

I like the idea of water births. According to the American Pregnancy Association, "It is the belief of midwives, birthing centers and a growing number of obstetricians, that reducing the stress during labor and delivery also reduces fetal complications." Proponents of this type of birthing say that it reduces injury to the mother, reduces pain, and reduces stress. I know that some hospitals can provide this kind of delivery but I wish that hospitals would look into more "new age" types of medicine like this.

References: http://www.americanpregnancy.org/labornbirth/waterbirth.html

Natural Childbirth-

Women who opt for natural childbirth can go to child-birthing centers where "Women are free to move around during their labor, get in positions that are most comfortable to them, and spend time in the tub or jacuzzi. The baby is monitored frequently, often with a handheld ultrasound device. Comfort measures such as hydrotherapy, massage, warm and cold compresses, and visualization and relaxation techniques are often used. The woman is free to eat and drink as she chooses." They will employ nurses, midwives, and doulas to assist with the birthing.

References: http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/childbirth/natural_childbirth.html#