I watched my March documentary last night- The Business of Being Born. I thought, spring, growth, babies, it all goes together! And NO, I didn't choose this documentary because I'm planning to have a baby anytime soon!
Anyway, what an interesting documentary! If I get a chance to teach another developmental or sexuality class, I would show parts of the film in class. It talks about how childbirth and care for new mothers and babies has really turned into a business that may not necessarily be the best thing for those involved. I was amazed to discover that 70% of births are attending by midwives in much of the rest of the world, but only 8% in the US (I think I got those numbers correct). Wow. I was also surprised to hear the mortality rates of the US compared to other countries (of course comparing hospital births versus births with a midwife). It was astounding. Interestingly enough, using a midwife is cheaper than the whole hospital/OB/GYN experience, and the statistics are good, so why is it that insurance companies aren't lining up to authorize and pay for these services? What's up with that??
The history of midwives and childbirth techniques were also shown- I can't believe some of the techniques they used to use- putting the women in a "twilight state" and then basically tying them into bed, so they wouldn't hurt themselves or others. Yikes. It looked more like torture, rather than childbirth!
The concept of midwifery is not completely new for me. I read a fantastic book, Baby Catcher, a few years ago, which taught me a lot. I actually had my students read a few chapters when I was teaching Child Psych. I also saw a midwife for my annual checkups and loved her! (I'm actually very sad that I will need to find someone new). So I've thought about the pros and cons of a midwife versus an OB/GYN... though I'm not sure I really want to do a home birth. Maybe a birthing center... any thoughts???
If you get a chance, I recommend checking this out, it was such an interesting film. If you've already seen it, I would love to hear what you think!!
Honey-Sweetened Spiced Peach Jam
4 days ago
1 comment:
Since you know I have seen this movie, I am glad you would love to hear what I would think, lol. I like the idea of a midwife, I just think I would get down to the last second and not have the trust I would need. I would freak out and end up at the doctor anyway. When I talked to my sister about the benefits of having a midwife, she thought that I would not be a good candidate...for some crazy reason she thinks my pregnancy (hopefully I have one of those someday) will be high risk. I really like the idea of having one though. No babies born in my house though...I'd probably have to give birth in the living room and all the fish would watch, that'd be strange...or maybe my house just doesn't seem to have a perfect "birthing spot"...I think a birthing center would be the perfect way to go.
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