OT: Homebirthing

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In a message dated 9/21/00 11:36:06 AM Central Daylight Time,

gmcoffey writes:

 

<< Doctors are taught how to deal with emergencies through medical

intervention.

They know little about how to care for emergencies naturally. Most midwives

have had much more experience in natural as well as emergency situations so

do not panic or overreact. >>

 

 

Unfortunately, none of the midwives in my area are willing to attend twin

births or breech births. Earlier in my pregnancy I found a midwife, several

hours away, who said she would attend a twin birth. However, she had very

little experience with twins, which made me feel uncomfortable. (She does not

do breech at all)

 

My OB is the only care provider I could find who was even willing to consider

a vaginal birth when both babies were breech. None of the midwives I spoke

with would even think about taking me. There has just been too much recent

litigation in this state for any of them to take chances with higher risk

births.

 

<< Hope the above gives some encouragement to parents unsure about

homebirthing and midwives.>>

 

I was certainly not trying to discourage anyone from homebirthing. However,

in my situation, it is simply not an option. I have prepared myself to deal

with all possible outcomes. I do believe it is still possible to have a

pleasant birth experience in a hospital setting. The truth is, you are

taking risks whether you stay home to birth or go to a birth center or

hospital. I have spoken with many women who have stayed home and had

completely unassisted births that turned out beautifully--and others who have

not been so fortunate. Not all doctors are as quick to intervene as you

think, and not all midwives are capable of or willing to handle higher risk

pregnancies. Every expectant woman needs to find the provider and place that

she feels most comfortable with for her particular situation.

 

peace,

Angela