The Birth Survey
I opened class this week with an exercise in asking questions. I had the group take home copies of the 6 Healthy Birth Practices. I asked the group to pick one of the 6 papers and respond to what they read. We had a lively discussion of the information. These 6 handouts list the research on normal birth, such as; allow birth to begin on it's own which presents research that describes the risk of risk of cesarean if labor is induced for non medical reasons in first time moms. Why don't moms know this, they ask? We talked about the benefits of good labor support in labor and how to help mothers in birth. Asking questions of your partners, learning what she needs in labor, how can I help?
The research on common interventions in labor leads to questions for your Dr.; what is your cesarean rate? What is the plan if I go past my due date? Can I deliver without pain medication? Can I push in any position I choose? It's important to learn about your Drs. usual routines, but statistics will answer the real question. The Birth Survey is published by Childbirth Connection. A group that champions normal birth practices. This is a national survey from families who give birth and respond to the experience in hospitals. You can look up hospitals in your area. The survey has been available for only a year so there isn't many responses yet, but you can help by filling out the survey when you deliver.
We asked a lot of questions last week. Most of the questions will only be answered by the experience. The questions are important. Mostly, you will be starting the dialog with your labor supporters, your nurse, your Dr. When you give birth you will labor as you have to. Birth awaits; you should be free to respond and experience the miracle and all it's challenges. You and your baby will soon see each other and begin your life together. Your baby will love you without questions.
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Moms need to ask questions if they want to get the birth experience they want. It helps if hospitals and birth centers publish their statistics, costs,and practices. Mothers and families can help answer these a questions by talking to their Drs., talk to their friends, and by responding to the National Birth Survey Birth Survey
