The Omamas beat us to it and a fine job they've done. They've crafted an online comparison of all the local Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA hospitals and listed their stats (yes, Cesarean rates) as well as amenities, plus offering a virtual tour.
Fabulous tool for expectant families to make decisions. And it answers all of their little questions about what labor aids are available,parking, DVD players, etc. too!'
Knowing that the number one surgery for women today is a Cesarean
and it is on the rise world-wide reaching 90% in countries like Brazil
and over 30% in the United States--we have but one choice and that is
to stand together this month in awareness.
What is the impact of such a dramatic change in the way women give birth? As French Obstetrician Michel Odent said so frighteningly and eloquently at the 2009 Midwifery Today conference, birth as defined as women birthing their babies under their own power is nearing ZERO percent.
In other words, birth as we know it is nearing extinction.
What can we do to make a difference? How can we move to see a reality that fits the mama-wisdom that is held in memory in our bones?
Start this month with supporting Cesarean Awareness and Prevention.
(Adapted from an article by Judy Edmonds, CPM)
1. Understand Why
-Cultural beliefs, medical advancements/acceptance, Disruption of the natural process
2. Realize the Danger
-maternal
mortality is 4-8x higher than in vaginal birth, 200% increase in pelvic
injury and uterine infection, 2-6% of babies accidently cut/injured
during the delivery, increase in postpartum complications (hemorrahge,
gallbladder diseases, genitourinary problems), breastfeeding problems,
increase in baby intervention/"work-ups", large permanent physical
scarring, emotional trauma.
3. Consider the Cost
Immediate
cost of a cesarean is about twice a vaginal birth and does not yet
include the long-term costs of additional healthcare needed for mom and
baby
4. Acknowledge the Aftermath (postpartum healing/bonding with baby)
A
significant number of women will require post-cesarean
rehospitalization for associated complications and some even maternal
death. Subsequent pregnancies may have additional complications.
Postpartum depression and emotional trauma to the family can extend the
dangers associated with cesarean delivery.
5. Educate Others
The
only way that we as a society will be able to see a paradigm shift is
to find ways to educate eachother on the value of natural, organic
birth.
6. Take Action
Seek Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), Join ICAN .
Support a Mom Today! Blog, write, share, discuss. Seek good nutrition
and supportive providers. Hire a doula (reduce Cesarean Birth by 50%)
7. Provide Leadership
Become a Doula . Donate to the Safe Motherhood Quilt Project founded by Ina May Gaskin
