Thanks to the wonderful Lia, women of South Africa now have access to help, support and advice on how to have a VBAC!
http://vbac.co.za/
:)
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Friday, May 22, 2009
C-sections 'a rational choice'
First read (by clicking the link) -
"Women are often urged to opt for a "natural" birth - such as having a baby at home - wherever possible.
This argument is so severely flawed in so many ways its hilarious. If he wants to use the example of "modern technology" we could also take a look at how the result of modern technology has given us a plethora of problems that only years and years down the line have we come to fully comprehend. Lets use the example of antibiotics - great invention that has saved countless lives, but it's overuse (and misuse) has resulted in mutations of diseases that are now resistant to them.
C-sections are also wonderful and *do* save lives in many instances but it is unbelievably foolish for this man to be suggesting that it is now the answer even over a natural birth in an uncomplicated pregnancy. We don't yet have a generation of children born primarily by c-section that have reached old age and I'm almost certain we will see some serious effects that c-section birth causes in the long term.
If modern technology has taught us anything it's that we should not plunge straight in, but use it in appropriate ways until we fully understand the effects it will have. Someone might like to remind our well-learned friend that a vast number of people are embracing older forms of housing construction (cob houses etc), solar and wind power, non-plastic items, and other forms of older or more natural ways in place of technology, due to the damage certain modern technology has caused the environment.
He also fails to mention that part of what causes the higher mortality rates in Africa and India has a lot to do with things like nutrition, education and the introduction of basic hygiene practices - as if the *only* reason they have "saved" the poor Africans is by using his great, amazing "modern technology".
Given the choice between having this man deliver my baby through surgery or going to an African community and being looked after by the women there while I squat and push my baby out - I take African village any day! I'm a young, healthy, strong woman who is having a baby, not a sick patient who needs a clever doctor to come in and save the day! And pass on the plastic surgery as well - even if it's one of those tummy tucks they do during a c-section. My stretch marks and various other things pregnancy has done to my body are beautiful reminders to me (and others) of how I did the most amazing thing ever - I made, and grew a beautiful healthy little boy in there! I would also like to mention that have a friend(a proud HBACer) who took up belly dancing post-babys!
"but many women see childbirth as an essential "rite of passage" and exhort others of their gender to eschew technological assistance"
Now that sentence really made me see red! The implication here is that he feels it is not a rite of passage. Perhaps in his view it is just another day, no big deal in the grand scheme of things. No longer should women be interested in "giving birth" to their child, but should embrace cold, unemotional modern technology and allow a qualified surgeon to surgically removed a parasitic growth from her abdomen?!
Yes, I may be overreacting here, but seriously, how callous is he being by even implying this? What is wrong with wanting to give a beautiful birth to the child you have carried in your belly? For nine months the woman has worked hard at eating correctly, exercising correctly and doing all that she can to help nurture her growing child. For many women to take an active role in finally bringing their child into this world is a very important rite of passage.
Half of what is wrong with the world today is our complete dismissal of important life events that help prepare us psychologically for a new phase in our lives. He is also effectively demonstrating a fundamental flaw of modern western medicine that totally forgets the human being in its entirety. He simply sees this as a fetus, a womb and that one must now exit the other. There is a complete dismissal of the spiritual, emotional and psychological parts of the whole picture. I might mention to him here that in Africa and India, this is one thing they get right!
I wish there was a way that people like him could stop for a moment and think. Better yet - LISTEN! Listen to what women are saying to him. He has been given a very privileged position when a woman entrusts him to assist her in the safe delivery of her child. It's time he realised that!
"Women are often urged to opt for a "natural" birth - such as having a baby at home - wherever possible.
This argument is so severely flawed in so many ways its hilarious. If he wants to use the example of "modern technology" we could also take a look at how the result of modern technology has given us a plethora of problems that only years and years down the line have we come to fully comprehend. Lets use the example of antibiotics - great invention that has saved countless lives, but it's overuse (and misuse) has resulted in mutations of diseases that are now resistant to them.
C-sections are also wonderful and *do* save lives in many instances but it is unbelievably foolish for this man to be suggesting that it is now the answer even over a natural birth in an uncomplicated pregnancy. We don't yet have a generation of children born primarily by c-section that have reached old age and I'm almost certain we will see some serious effects that c-section birth causes in the long term.
If modern technology has taught us anything it's that we should not plunge straight in, but use it in appropriate ways until we fully understand the effects it will have. Someone might like to remind our well-learned friend that a vast number of people are embracing older forms of housing construction (cob houses etc), solar and wind power, non-plastic items, and other forms of older or more natural ways in place of technology, due to the damage certain modern technology has caused the environment.
He also fails to mention that part of what causes the higher mortality rates in Africa and India has a lot to do with things like nutrition, education and the introduction of basic hygiene practices - as if the *only* reason they have "saved" the poor Africans is by using his great, amazing "modern technology".
Given the choice between having this man deliver my baby through surgery or going to an African community and being looked after by the women there while I squat and push my baby out - I take African village any day! I'm a young, healthy, strong woman who is having a baby, not a sick patient who needs a clever doctor to come in and save the day! And pass on the plastic surgery as well - even if it's one of those tummy tucks they do during a c-section. My stretch marks and various other things pregnancy has done to my body are beautiful reminders to me (and others) of how I did the most amazing thing ever - I made, and grew a beautiful healthy little boy in there! I would also like to mention that have a friend(a proud HBACer) who took up belly dancing post-babys!
"but many women see childbirth as an essential "rite of passage" and exhort others of their gender to eschew technological assistance"
Now that sentence really made me see red! The implication here is that he feels it is not a rite of passage. Perhaps in his view it is just another day, no big deal in the grand scheme of things. No longer should women be interested in "giving birth" to their child, but should embrace cold, unemotional modern technology and allow a qualified surgeon to surgically removed a parasitic growth from her abdomen?!
Yes, I may be overreacting here, but seriously, how callous is he being by even implying this? What is wrong with wanting to give a beautiful birth to the child you have carried in your belly? For nine months the woman has worked hard at eating correctly, exercising correctly and doing all that she can to help nurture her growing child. For many women to take an active role in finally bringing their child into this world is a very important rite of passage.
Half of what is wrong with the world today is our complete dismissal of important life events that help prepare us psychologically for a new phase in our lives. He is also effectively demonstrating a fundamental flaw of modern western medicine that totally forgets the human being in its entirety. He simply sees this as a fetus, a womb and that one must now exit the other. There is a complete dismissal of the spiritual, emotional and psychological parts of the whole picture. I might mention to him here that in Africa and India, this is one thing they get right!
I wish there was a way that people like him could stop for a moment and think. Better yet - LISTEN! Listen to what women are saying to him. He has been given a very privileged position when a woman entrusts him to assist her in the safe delivery of her child. It's time he realised that!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Men and Women in Midwifery
I found this blog on men in midwifery very interesting -
Men and Women in Midwifery
Men and Women in Midwifery
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Childbirth PSA
I've been doing a lot of thinking about the Public Service Announcement we have to do as a project for college. Obviously I'm very keen on making a PSA that involves childbirth in some way.
The best PSA's always use a metaphor to make a simple statement of fact. But how do you do this with childbirth.
I've heard the metaphor used which likens labour to a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis. If you pull a butterfly out of it's chrysalis it will die as it needs that struggle to emerge in order to live. This metaphor has been used to promote natural childbirth (in low-risk pregnancy's obviously) but I don't feel happy with this. Although c-sections have their side effects, many baby's have no immediate adverse side-effects from it. Perhaps one day in the future when we have generations of c-sction baby's reaching old age we will discover what the true side-effects are, but right now they aren't immediately life threatening for a great number of people born this way.
So what is the message I really want to get across:
Make an Informed Choice.
When a woman is pregnant she can often be overwhelmed by all the information she receives, and often it's even worse when so much of what she hears is conflicting information! This can actually make it harder to make a truly informed choice because how is she to know what is correct and what is not.
One might think that listening to your doctor and taking his/her word on things is the best solution. But what about when a doctor says something like "Once a C-section, Always a C-section" or "You pelvis is too small" or "Your shoe size is smaller than a size 4 so you won't be able to give birth to your baby vaginally" (last one is something a doctor actually said to someone I know).
Disagreeing with your doctor is a very scary position to be in, and women who do often get flack not only from medical staff but from friends and family as well because of societies belief that "Doctor knows best".
There are more and more times that it has been shown that questioning your doctor is not only good, but a necessity. Most recent example I can think of is a friend who was worried about a lump and was told it was nothing by more than one doctor. Finally a doctor was found who investigated it properly and the diagnosis was inoperable cancer.
But back to childbirth! The survey's I did only showed a very clear feeling among the women who took it that doctors were pushing women into interventions that probably had more to do with being convenient for the doctor than being for the good of mother and baby.
But in South Africa we also have some important things to take into consideration:
My conclusion was that we shouldn't - we should focus on something far more important and very needed in government hospitals as well. It's one word that represents so much:
Already these women do so much in the government maternity wards - providing the much needed care that overworked, underpaid nursing staff just don't have the time or energy to give. In some cases doula's have been the one's delivering the babies because there was just no one else!
For women who have more money (and they aren't necessarily rich) they can afford more choice by opting for private healthcare. However, in private healthcare the c-section rate is a staggering 80% (approximately) and so the Doula has a very different role to play.
In government hospitals they perform a very practical service, helping nursing staff and offering support and company to women who almost always come to give birth completely alone. In the private sector they offer much wider form of care, through information during pregnancy, physical and emotional support through pregnancy and birth, and even being an advocate for a woman when she is in a vunerable position.
I feel this is the best focus for a PSA. To bring attention to what at Doula is and what she does.
Government should pay women to be birth doulas in Government Hospitals and medical aids should cover their cost as an important part of the team caring for women in private facilities.
But how on earth does one say this in metaphor?!
It's easy to come up with one's for woman in private care (eg. doctors pushing unncessary interventions, overuse of technology), but it's almost impossible to think of a single one that would cover the important role in both government and in private care.
Here are some ideas I've got so far:
So far the best idea is:
The best PSA's always use a metaphor to make a simple statement of fact. But how do you do this with childbirth.
I've heard the metaphor used which likens labour to a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis. If you pull a butterfly out of it's chrysalis it will die as it needs that struggle to emerge in order to live. This metaphor has been used to promote natural childbirth (in low-risk pregnancy's obviously) but I don't feel happy with this. Although c-sections have their side effects, many baby's have no immediate adverse side-effects from it. Perhaps one day in the future when we have generations of c-sction baby's reaching old age we will discover what the true side-effects are, but right now they aren't immediately life threatening for a great number of people born this way.
So what is the message I really want to get across:
Make an Informed Choice.
When a woman is pregnant she can often be overwhelmed by all the information she receives, and often it's even worse when so much of what she hears is conflicting information! This can actually make it harder to make a truly informed choice because how is she to know what is correct and what is not.
One might think that listening to your doctor and taking his/her word on things is the best solution. But what about when a doctor says something like "Once a C-section, Always a C-section" or "You pelvis is too small" or "Your shoe size is smaller than a size 4 so you won't be able to give birth to your baby vaginally" (last one is something a doctor actually said to someone I know).
Disagreeing with your doctor is a very scary position to be in, and women who do often get flack not only from medical staff but from friends and family as well because of societies belief that "Doctor knows best".
There are more and more times that it has been shown that questioning your doctor is not only good, but a necessity. Most recent example I can think of is a friend who was worried about a lump and was told it was nothing by more than one doctor. Finally a doctor was found who investigated it properly and the diagnosis was inoperable cancer.
But back to childbirth! The survey's I did only showed a very clear feeling among the women who took it that doctors were pushing women into interventions that probably had more to do with being convenient for the doctor than being for the good of mother and baby.
But in South Africa we also have some important things to take into consideration:
- There are many, many women reliant on government health services to care for their pregnancy, and that in itself gives them very little choice
- Government Hospitals are direly understaffed
- Government Hospitals have no money and lack many basic facilities
My conclusion was that we shouldn't - we should focus on something far more important and very needed in government hospitals as well. It's one word that represents so much:
Doula
Already these women do so much in the government maternity wards - providing the much needed care that overworked, underpaid nursing staff just don't have the time or energy to give. In some cases doula's have been the one's delivering the babies because there was just no one else!
For women who have more money (and they aren't necessarily rich) they can afford more choice by opting for private healthcare. However, in private healthcare the c-section rate is a staggering 80% (approximately) and so the Doula has a very different role to play.
In government hospitals they perform a very practical service, helping nursing staff and offering support and company to women who almost always come to give birth completely alone. In the private sector they offer much wider form of care, through information during pregnancy, physical and emotional support through pregnancy and birth, and even being an advocate for a woman when she is in a vunerable position.
I feel this is the best focus for a PSA. To bring attention to what at Doula is and what she does.
Government should pay women to be birth doulas in Government Hospitals and medical aids should cover their cost as an important part of the team caring for women in private facilities.
But how on earth does one say this in metaphor?!
It's easy to come up with one's for woman in private care (eg. doctors pushing unncessary interventions, overuse of technology), but it's almost impossible to think of a single one that would cover the important role in both government and in private care.
Here are some ideas I've got so far:
- Old wives tales, medical myths, and random strangers - all giving advice to a pregnant woman. Who can help her know the truth? A doula.
- A woman goes to reverse her car out of her driveway. Suddenly a variety of experts (eg civil engineers, builders) come to measure, calculate and give advice. The woman is overwhelmed when they say they're just going to go ahead and lift the car out of her driveway with a crane. [NB this is the only one that is actually a metaphor]
So far the best idea is:
- A serious of childbirth related problems (such as mentioned above, women giving birth alone in govt hospitals etc) are shown but a fairy godmother character appears and waves a magic wand and the scene is "fixed". It could end with a voice over saying something like "You might think such a magical creature doesn't exist, but the birth fairy is real. She's called a Doula - and every woman deserves one!" and then give information as to where someone could find out more about this.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Homebirth as safe as in hospital
The largest study of its kind has found that for low-risk women, giving birth at home is as safe as doing so in hospital with a midwife.
Research from the Netherlands - which has a high rate of home births - found no difference in death rates of either mothers or babies in 530,000 births.
Home births have long been debated amid concerns about their safety.
UK obstetricians welcomed the study - published in the journal BJOG - but said it may not apply universally.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7998417.stm
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The case AGAINST breastfeeding
Obviously the title of this article is highly evocative. One quote which was rather infuriating was the following:
"The debate about breast-feeding takes place without any reference to its actual context in women’s lives. Breast-feeding exclusively is not like taking a prenatal vitamin. It is a serious time commitment that pretty much guarantees that you will not work in any meaningful way. Let’s say a baby feeds seven times a day and then a couple more times at night. That’s nine times for about a half hour each, which adds up to more than half of a working day, every day, for at least six months. This is why, when people say that breast-feeding is “free,” I want to hit them with a two-by-four. It’s only free if a woman’s time is worth nothing."
I am definitely pro-breastfeeding but I know what it's like to struggle. Breastfeed if you can, but don't feel guilty about bottle feeding if it makes your experience of motherhood more pleasant. A happy attentive mother is what a baby needs most!
Another ironic aspect is that in South Africa breastfeeding is the lowest in wealthy and well educated mothers. Those that do are seen as a uncouth at best, and somewhat peculiar at worst. This is the complete opposite in the US - so I wonder what a study here would uncover about breastfeeding?
It's an interesting bit of writing overall, but I really take objection to women who choose to breastfeed somehow being less feminist (or whatever she's trying to say) by doing so. It's like the same bad rap women get for choosing to be stay at home mothers! Somehow being liberated means all women must work, and must not stay home and raise breastfed children.
Personally I always thought it was about having the choice to do either - but obviously I've missed something!
http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200904/case-against-breastfeeding
:<
"The debate about breast-feeding takes place without any reference to its actual context in women’s lives. Breast-feeding exclusively is not like taking a prenatal vitamin. It is a serious time commitment that pretty much guarantees that you will not work in any meaningful way. Let’s say a baby feeds seven times a day and then a couple more times at night. That’s nine times for about a half hour each, which adds up to more than half of a working day, every day, for at least six months. This is why, when people say that breast-feeding is “free,” I want to hit them with a two-by-four. It’s only free if a woman’s time is worth nothing."
I am definitely pro-breastfeeding but I know what it's like to struggle. Breastfeed if you can, but don't feel guilty about bottle feeding if it makes your experience of motherhood more pleasant. A happy attentive mother is what a baby needs most!
Another ironic aspect is that in South Africa breastfeeding is the lowest in wealthy and well educated mothers. Those that do are seen as a uncouth at best, and somewhat peculiar at worst. This is the complete opposite in the US - so I wonder what a study here would uncover about breastfeeding?
It's an interesting bit of writing overall, but I really take objection to women who choose to breastfeed somehow being less feminist (or whatever she's trying to say) by doing so. It's like the same bad rap women get for choosing to be stay at home mothers! Somehow being liberated means all women must work, and must not stay home and raise breastfed children.
Personally I always thought it was about having the choice to do either - but obviously I've missed something!
http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200904/case-against-breastfeeding
:<
Sunday, April 12, 2009
VBAC SouthAfrica
VBACSA is a South African site offering compassionate understanding
to women who have had a caesarean and nurturing support to women in
their journey towards a vaginal birth after Caesarean birth.
To subscribe please send an email
to VBACSA-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Who can subscribe: women who have had a caesarean or repeat
caesareans, Women who have had a VBAC or attempted a VBAC, Doulas
that are supporting women in their VBAC journeys or caesarean births.
There are multiple links and files to add to your resources. The
group is also working towards increasing awareness about VBA2C and
doctors around South Africa that are supportive.
For further information please email rosalia@birthing.co.za
Friday, January 30, 2009
Babies Stressed By Forward-Facing Buggies: British Study
Babies transported in forward-facing buggies could end up "emotionally impoverished" due to lack of face-to-face contact with the parent pushing them, a British study suggested Friday.
Having infants facing their parent gives them positive reassurance and reduces mental stress, said the study by researchers at Dundee University in Scotland, believed to be the first of its kind.
"Neuroscience has helped us to learn how important social interaction during the early years is for children's brain development," said Suzanne Zeedyk of the university's School of Psychology.
Continue reading...
Having infants facing their parent gives them positive reassurance and reduces mental stress, said the study by researchers at Dundee University in Scotland, believed to be the first of its kind.
"Neuroscience has helped us to learn how important social interaction during the early years is for children's brain development," said Suzanne Zeedyk of the university's School of Psychology.
Continue reading...
Friday, December 19, 2008
Shut up and push
I'm very glad this woman took legal action after being told to "Shut Up and Push" by her doctor.
I kid. you. not.
I kid. you. not.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Wonderful C-section Birth Story
This is a beautiful story
I think it clearly illustrates how important it is to empower yourself with information to make informed choices. This will allow you to own that experience no matter what the outcome.
I think it clearly illustrates how important it is to empower yourself with information to make informed choices. This will allow you to own that experience no matter what the outcome.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Birthing From Within - Cape Town Course
I am excited to hear that a Birthing from Within mentor training course will be happening in Cape Town in January 2009! I'm already making plans to organise the money to do this.
There are still plenty of spaces left for those interested:
Introduction to Birthing From Within
Mentor and Doula workshop in Cape Town, South Africa
January 30, 31 & February 1, 2009 (Friday 9 a.m. to Sunday 6 p.m.)
$325 ($400 after 1/09/09)
Exact Location TBA
Facilitated by Britta Bushnell and Rosalia Phihajasaari
Complete details to be posted soon.
http://www.birthingfromwithin.com/workshop_schedule
Sign-up via the link above.
There are still plenty of spaces left for those interested:
Introduction to Birthing From Within
Mentor and Doula workshop in Cape Town, South Africa
January 30, 31 & February 1, 2009 (Friday 9 a.m. to Sunday 6 p.m.)
$325 ($400 after 1/09/09)
Exact Location TBA
Facilitated by Britta Bushnell and Rosalia Phihajasaari
Complete details to be posted soon.
http://www.birthingfromwithin.com/workshop_schedule
Sign-up via the link above.
Monday, November 10, 2008
BirthWays Documentary
First of all, if you haven't yet seen the survey, here it is:
Childbirth in South Africa Survey
And now some excerpts from the proposal:
Background Information:
Introduction:
Just remember that this is a "work in progress" and may still change.
I would also like to thank the wonderful, beautiful ladies who have already given me their comments and criticisms of what I have done so far. You participation is invaluable and I look forward to learning more about the unique perspectives and opinions on something that connects all women, no matter who they are or what background they come from.
Childbirth in South Africa Survey
And now some excerpts from the proposal:
Background Information:
Sarah has had an interest in pregnancy and childbirth since becoming a “big sister” at the age of 3. From there her interested was limited to the arrival of other siblings and numerous cousins. At the age of 25 and living in England, more opportunities opened up to her and what had been a strong interest grew into a passion. She trained as a Doula and decided she would like to take this further by becoming a midwife. In January of 2005 she started a BCur Degree with UWC in Cape Town but by the middle of that year she discovered she was about to get some firsthand experience with pregnancy and childbirth when she found out she was expecting her first child. It was a very difficult decision to make, but she decided to put her studies on hold and focus on the pregnancy and all the preparations that needed to made for the arrival of this unexpected blessing.
After the birth of her son, she devoted herself to being a mother and realized that going back to studying nursing may not be plausible for some time, due to the enormous time commitment needed for that line of study.
Through a number of circumstances she ended up pursuing other more creative interests and was accepted to study Film at CityVarsity. Pregnancy and Childbirth issues continue to be a huge passion of Sarah’s but has been limited to maintaining her website and birth-blog. She continues to do Doula work on a very casual basis through word of mouth, and on one occasion attended a birth as a Doula at the request of a close friend.
Sarah considers herself somewhat of a feminist and takes an interest in various womens issues, but her main driving passion is those surrounding pregnancy and childbirth. She is passionate about making information surrounding this more easily available and sees activism in this area as part of her duty as a Doula. Film-making has allowed her a unique opportunity to bring this worthy cause to light, and to show the amazing work that is already being done by many others in and around Cape Town.
Introduction:
They say that the easiest way to start an argument is to start a conversation about sex, religion or politics. Perhaps pregnancy and childbirth should also be added to this list? Some people have strong opinions about how and where a baby should be born, while others who may not have an opinion on that aspect will at least have an opinion on whether “the doctor is always right” or not.
In a short documentary series, we would aim to uncover what it is that South Africans believe about childbirth and how this compares to scientific studies of childbirth. Do South Africans think that a Cesarean Section is the safest way to have a baby? This is an important question as South African private hospitals have one of the highest c-section rates in the world – being around 70-80% when a safe percentage is estimated to be between 7-15%. Yet despite this rate, the women who really need to have c-sections in state hospitals are not getting them. Newspaper reports also show that Medical Aids may also be assisting this rate by making them the most cost-effective to their members. And what role do medical professionals, such as Obstetricians play?
What is it like to have a baby in a state hospital? We hear horror stories about the lack of medication and a lack of actual care taking place in hospitals in general, and so how does this effect women in childbirth? Many of the women who have their baby’s in a state hospital are doing so because they have no other option (simply due to finances) and go there without any family members or support. At a small number of state hospitals a group of Doulas are volunteering their services and have made a huge impact on the environment in which these women give birth. Perhaps this should be something that should be rolled out on a more widespread basis?
How does South Africa compare to the rest of the world when it comes to childbirth? Holland has the lowest infant and maternal death rate in the world, whereas the United States has one of the highest. We would aim to investigate which country South Africa more closely resembles and if we are following a good example, or if we are setting our own trends.
We would also investigate a woman rights in childbirth, with regards to both her body and her baby. Are women aware of these rights, and what happens when they try to exercise these rights? Do the current laws and regulations governing medical in Childbirth adequately protect a woman’s choice? Do we have enough information available to women from independent sources, especially women from poor backgrounds?
Just remember that this is a "work in progress" and may still change.
I would also like to thank the wonderful, beautiful ladies who have already given me their comments and criticisms of what I have done so far. You participation is invaluable and I look forward to learning more about the unique perspectives and opinions on something that connects all women, no matter who they are or what background they come from.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Go Organic!
I found this interesting link about how to change your childrens diets over to healthy alternatives and it got me thinking :)
For me it all started in Pregnancy. I was very careful what I was eating as I was really focused on doing all that I could to grow a healthy baby. I cut out caffeine, things with added sugar, i don't eat red meat so I started eating more ostrich as a healthy alternative, I ate loads of fruit and veggies and kept away from the usual stuff like sushi (that was hard!), soft cheeses and, of course, alcohol!
I was also quite excited to see that Woolworths is really expanding on both organic foods and earth-friendly cleaning products! Staying away from poisonous cleaning products is also worth considering, not to mention hair colours. Henna is a great substitute by the way!
Once the baby is here, and you get to the point of starting solids, you can also find various organic first foods. Woolworths has a range (of course) but if you need something that can be stored for longer than their fresh foods I would suggest Olli Organic. Baby's should not be having sugar and salt when they first start solids, and you will be horrified to see that they are listed as ingredients in Purity baby food.
For me it all started in Pregnancy. I was very careful what I was eating as I was really focused on doing all that I could to grow a healthy baby. I cut out caffeine, things with added sugar, i don't eat red meat so I started eating more ostrich as a healthy alternative, I ate loads of fruit and veggies and kept away from the usual stuff like sushi (that was hard!), soft cheeses and, of course, alcohol!
I was also quite excited to see that Woolworths is really expanding on both organic foods and earth-friendly cleaning products! Staying away from poisonous cleaning products is also worth considering, not to mention hair colours. Henna is a great substitute by the way!
Once the baby is here, and you get to the point of starting solids, you can also find various organic first foods. Woolworths has a range (of course) but if you need something that can be stored for longer than their fresh foods I would suggest Olli Organic. Baby's should not be having sugar and salt when they first start solids, and you will be horrified to see that they are listed as ingredients in Purity baby food.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Anti-Abortion laws & VBAC
This just shows how important it is to realise the full and far-reaching effects anti-abortion laws can have:
Monday, October 27, 2008
Documentary Update
I've been having a good, long, hard think about the direction the birth documentary is going. I have started writing up the proposal and it sunk in that this was turning into a project of epic proportions and, quite honestly, it was going to be more than I could handle. I have a nasty habit of thinking way *way* too big! ;-)
So I'm back to the drawing board. I re-wrote the proposal from the perspective of Doula's but now I feel like it might exclude some people that I really want to interview. I guess I just need to sit down and decide what exactly each episode will cover.
I think a little research into documentary film-making might also be in order!
And sorry for the lack of posts recently - I was on a hectic shooting schedule and then editing a rather terrible movie. Things have quietened down now, so hopefully that will see me blogging more often!
So I'm back to the drawing board. I re-wrote the proposal from the perspective of Doula's but now I feel like it might exclude some people that I really want to interview. I guess I just need to sit down and decide what exactly each episode will cover.
I think a little research into documentary film-making might also be in order!
And sorry for the lack of posts recently - I was on a hectic shooting schedule and then editing a rather terrible movie. Things have quietened down now, so hopefully that will see me blogging more often!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Birthing From Within
Since ever I can remember I have been fascinated with childbirth. My mother loves to tell the story of how when she tried to teach me about the facts of life, I really wasn't interested in anything except the part of the book she had that showed pregnancy and childbirth. I remember being in awe of the cartoon-style drawing of a woman who had just pushed out the baby's head. The mother and father were both smiling. I would read that section over and over. Being the oldest out of all my siblings, and the grandchildren on both sides, allowed me to see my mother and various relatives go through the process.
I remember in school having this thought of wanting to be a midwife. I didn't really know what it was, but there was something deep down that just told me its what I wanted to be. After school I looked forward to having a baby one day.
Then, one fateful day ;-) , I went to my local library and saw a book there called "Birthing From Within". I flipped through the pages and saw fascinating pictures drawn of birth. I took the book out and started reading. I didn't put it down. At times I was so overcome with emotion that I started crying, but I just sucked in every single word. It's like something clicked. It was like I'd been let in on this secret that was held within the pages of this book, and carried deep down in the souls of all women (whether they know it are not).
I think this book helped plant a seed that has blossomed in so many ways in my life. While my own birth story didn't go anything like I had hoped, I still haven't lost hope in what I connected to while reading Birthing From Within. I can honestly say it was a life-changing experience for me - and that was just from *reading*!
These days there is a fabulous lady I have come to know (and admire greatly) who now offers what is in the book as a course. I can't imagine how amazing it must be to have the full experience of doing all the practical exercises mentioned in the book, with other people who are also learning things about themselves. I can only imagine that the classes hold some very special memories for people, and have a profound effect on the birth of the child, and the birth of a couple as parents.
Her name is Rosalia (affectionately shortened to Lia, from what I know). So far the classes are only taught in JHB.
You can find out more on her website called Birthing in Awareness
You can also learn more about Birthing From Within on their website, as well as find the locations of classes internationally offered.
If you can't make the classes, and are expecting a baby, I highly recommend reading the book. I think that book made me loose all fear of childbirth and really just give in and be fully present in the process of natural birth.
It can be purchased on Kalahari for R220.00
Or my other favorite place to buy online, Loot, for R187.00
I remember in school having this thought of wanting to be a midwife. I didn't really know what it was, but there was something deep down that just told me its what I wanted to be. After school I looked forward to having a baby one day.
Then, one fateful day ;-) , I went to my local library and saw a book there called "Birthing From Within". I flipped through the pages and saw fascinating pictures drawn of birth. I took the book out and started reading. I didn't put it down. At times I was so overcome with emotion that I started crying, but I just sucked in every single word. It's like something clicked. It was like I'd been let in on this secret that was held within the pages of this book, and carried deep down in the souls of all women (whether they know it are not).
I think this book helped plant a seed that has blossomed in so many ways in my life. While my own birth story didn't go anything like I had hoped, I still haven't lost hope in what I connected to while reading Birthing From Within. I can honestly say it was a life-changing experience for me - and that was just from *reading*!
These days there is a fabulous lady I have come to know (and admire greatly) who now offers what is in the book as a course. I can't imagine how amazing it must be to have the full experience of doing all the practical exercises mentioned in the book, with other people who are also learning things about themselves. I can only imagine that the classes hold some very special memories for people, and have a profound effect on the birth of the child, and the birth of a couple as parents.
Her name is Rosalia (affectionately shortened to Lia, from what I know). So far the classes are only taught in JHB.
You can find out more on her website called Birthing in Awareness
You can also learn more about Birthing From Within on their website, as well as find the locations of classes internationally offered.
If you can't make the classes, and are expecting a baby, I highly recommend reading the book. I think that book made me loose all fear of childbirth and really just give in and be fully present in the process of natural birth.
It can be purchased on Kalahari for R220.00
Or my other favorite place to buy online, Loot, for R187.00
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
My New Project
I'm at film school at the moment and recently I've had the opportunity to put together a proposal for content on a local TV channel. Obviously I'm jumping at the chance to put together something about pregnancy and childbirth.
At the moment I'm in the planning stages of making a 6 part documentary series that will cover a broad variety of aspects surrounding the childbirth process from a uniquely South African perspective.
Here are a few of the ideas so far:
I am hoping to put together an all female crew as well. Not that I don't think boys can't do it, but one of the things that will help me get the proposal approved is to have a high PDI rating (which means that the film is made by previously disadvantaged individuals, which women are considered to be) but I also just like the coolness factor of the "girl power" side of it. ;-)
So if you are reading and think you might be able to help in the form of information or interviews, or anything, then please contact me here or privately.
xx
At the moment I'm in the planning stages of making a 6 part documentary series that will cover a broad variety of aspects surrounding the childbirth process from a uniquely South African perspective.
Here are a few of the ideas so far:
- How does government vs private care compare?
- What are the circumstance women from the lower income brackets facing when expecting, and having, a baby? (showing how they often have a baby alone, and then get kicked out of hospital mere hours after giving birth to navigate long journeys home on public transport)
- What is being done about the lack of governmental facilities? (coverage on the work of Bossom Buddies who are doing fantastic work already!)
- How does care in SA private hospitals compare to overseas?
- How does South Africa's c-section rate, and various related topics, compare to the international trends?
- Homebirth - how is it viewed, what is it like?
- Interesting and less well known aspects of childbirth such as - Lotus Birth, Unassisted/Free Birth, VBAC/HBAC, Birthing from Within, Doulas, Hypnobirth and anything else I can think of!
- A post birth episode that covers things like PND, post-natal care and how what happens in SA compares to places like the UK who have a "health visitor" program giving support to women in the months following the birth.
I am hoping to put together an all female crew as well. Not that I don't think boys can't do it, but one of the things that will help me get the proposal approved is to have a high PDI rating (which means that the film is made by previously disadvantaged individuals, which women are considered to be) but I also just like the coolness factor of the "girl power" side of it. ;-)
So if you are reading and think you might be able to help in the form of information or interviews, or anything, then please contact me here or privately.
xx
Monday, October 6, 2008
Pregnancy & Skincare
I found this great article which actually explains why you shouldn't use certain skincare products during pregnancy. We all hear about various moisturisers that should be avoided during pregnancy but very little info is ever shared about *why*.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Should C-section be a choice?
Should doctors continue to allow women to have a c-section simply through choice and without any pressing medical reason to do one?
Most women would say yes. Most women would talk about how it is her body and she should have the right to control what happens to it - as many brave women have fought for the that right over the years.
However, I feel that sometimes this particular "right" becomes confused when it comes to the issue of childbirth. A woman should surely have the right to control what happens and how things happen to her body during pregnancy and birth. But should a woman really have the right to choose something that has been scientifically shown as more dangerous to both her and her baby?
I often end up thinking that because it is us, as women, who are the carriers of children, and who do the work to bring the child into the world, we assume that anything surrounding childbirth instantly qualifies as a woman's issue. Instead of childbirth being about health and safety, it becomes about oppression of women and the very un-politically correct behaviour of denying her a choice.
But lets take a step back for a moment....
During the first half of the 1900's the biggest leap in the quest for pain free childbirth was made. The Twilight Sleep was heralded as the en
d of woman's suffering in childbirth. Many of those involved in the Women's Sufferage called for it's widespread use. By the time of the post-war baby boom the horror stories began to surface about what it was really like. Women were strapped down as they continued to thrash about, often inflicting wounds on their wrists and ankles. It is believed that the Twilight Sleep did not really alleviate the pain, but simply erased any memory of what had happened.
As a result of this method of pain relief left women totally disconnected from childbirth and therefore bonding was very difficult. There were also serious effects on the baby that lead to extreme difficulty breathing.
At this point I would like to make it clear that I am not against C-sections. They are without a doubt a life-saving obstetrical technique that has enhanced our ability to bring babies safely into the world - when they are used appropriately.
The problem is that they are not being used appropriately. In recent studies into the rising numbers of women having c-sections, it has been found that very few of them actually choose this option outright and were in fact persuaded by their doctors into "choosing" this method.
You see, doctors have a vested interest in a nice, easy surgical birth where s/he is completely in charge of the situation. In the highly litigious society of the US, doctors are more concerned with the prospect of being sued and at the slight indication of anything untoward they will immediately start pressuring to have a c-section. I guess you could call a c-section damage control. You only need to look at the statistics to see why they would be so quick to suggest a c-section as to date the majority of doctors have been sued as a result of natural birth gone wrong and only one case is currently known of where a doctor was sued for doing a c-section.
In South Africa I'm not sure it's quite the same motivation. My experience of South African's in general is that we're quite a c
onservative bunch, and we're all still under the impression that the Doctor knows best and are happy to give in to their advice without much of a fight (or even a discussion). This is not to say that all women are like this - I'm basing this solely on a vast amount of conversations with women. And I think that this is slowly changing too.
One particular close friend of mine, T, fought better part of her pregnancy to avoid as much intervention as much as possible, and boy was it a fight. T was threatened into getting an ultra-sound even though it was against her express wishes. One always has "the right" to turn down any medical procedure, but what good is this right if your doctor can turn around and refuse to treat you in the case of you refusing? The most ironic thing is that T had done everything she was supposed to in order to achieve her goals, like seeking the care of a midwife - but sadly this midwife was on the side of the doctor and also hinted at refusing care if T disobeyed.
Being the classy, ballsy chick that she is, she dropped said midwife and found another that seemed way more on-board with what she wanted. Not the easiest decision to make from my experience. In the end she had a beautiful homebirth, due in most part to her serious dedication to achieving that.
My own story seems like a very typical pattern to most women I know in SA who have ended up with c-sections. They get pressured into an induction and get left no choice but to have the c-section when it fails. It was even admitted to me that the problems that motivated the induction were found to be magically non-existent once my son was born. I too went with a midwife - something I thought would be a guarantee of a vaginal birth at the very least.
So back to the issue of c-section as a choice!
I personally feel that Doctors are abusing their position by insisting on c-sections, for whatever (personal)reasons. There really is no defense for an 80% c-section rate in South African private hospitals. The rate in government hospitals is still much higher than the WHO recommended rate of 15%, but it is far, far lower than 80% (maybe around 40-60%, depending on the province).
Women are being strong-armed into unnecessary major surgery, with the threat of denial of care if they exercise their right to informed consent (in the case of a private patient). Government Hospitals are not somewhere anyone wants to give birth - and I can say this from having worked in one while studying nursing.
I honestly feel that the only way to prevent doctors from doing this for their own convenience is to no longer allow it as a choice. It needs to be something that is medically necessary before someone is allowed to consider it to be an option. Having an extreme phobia about pain is quite obviously a good reason to have a c-section, but seeing as a c-section can also involve a fair amount of pain then surely counseling is in order?
Women in South Africa are being denied choice under the current laws. They are told they have the right to informed consent and informed refusal, but information about the risks of c-section is rarely, if ever, given to them. In the case of a private patient refusing a procedure she can be denied care and are left with finding another care provider (and there are only rare gems who favour vaginal birth) or going to a government hospital where the most extravagant pain relief you are given is two paracetamol tablets in the case of a vaginal birth.
Medical Aids also have to be considered in all of this, as they also have a fair amount of persuasion when it comes to doctors. And pretty much all private patients will have medical aid. Medical Aids are currently structured in favour of planned c-section births where they will cover the entire procedure 100% whereas a vaginal birth will end up with the member having to pay in money from their own pocket!!
C-section is the only on-demand major surgery a person can have. It carries the same risks as all other major abdominal surgeries, yet despite the fact that doctors are supposed to seek surgery as a last resort, it has become the first choice for them. It's "no big deal" and women are lead to believe that it's easier and safer.
Currently there is no independent source of information in South Africa about childbirth other than one's own doctor. This needs to change, and so do laws so that women are given back the control over their bodies and their babies. They also need to be able to do with without fear of being refused care.
Most women would say yes. Most women would talk about how it is her body and she should have the right to control what happens to it - as many brave women have fought for the that right over the years.
However, I feel that sometimes this particular "right" becomes confused when it comes to the issue of childbirth. A woman should surely have the right to control what happens and how things happen to her body during pregnancy and birth. But should a woman really have the right to choose something that has been scientifically shown as more dangerous to both her and her baby?
I often end up thinking that because it is us, as women, who are the carriers of children, and who do the work to bring the child into the world, we assume that anything surrounding childbirth instantly qualifies as a woman's issue. Instead of childbirth being about health and safety, it becomes about oppression of women and the very un-politically correct behaviour of denying her a choice.
But lets take a step back for a moment....
During the first half of the 1900's the biggest leap in the quest for pain free childbirth was made. The Twilight Sleep was heralded as the en
d of woman's suffering in childbirth. Many of those involved in the Women's Sufferage called for it's widespread use. By the time of the post-war baby boom the horror stories began to surface about what it was really like. Women were strapped down as they continued to thrash about, often inflicting wounds on their wrists and ankles. It is believed that the Twilight Sleep did not really alleviate the pain, but simply erased any memory of what had happened.As a result of this method of pain relief left women totally disconnected from childbirth and therefore bonding was very difficult. There were also serious effects on the baby that lead to extreme difficulty breathing.
At this point I would like to make it clear that I am not against C-sections. They are without a doubt a life-saving obstetrical technique that has enhanced our ability to bring babies safely into the world - when they are used appropriately.
The problem is that they are not being used appropriately. In recent studies into the rising numbers of women having c-sections, it has been found that very few of them actually choose this option outright and were in fact persuaded by their doctors into "choosing" this method.
You see, doctors have a vested interest in a nice, easy surgical birth where s/he is completely in charge of the situation. In the highly litigious society of the US, doctors are more concerned with the prospect of being sued and at the slight indication of anything untoward they will immediately start pressuring to have a c-section. I guess you could call a c-section damage control. You only need to look at the statistics to see why they would be so quick to suggest a c-section as to date the majority of doctors have been sued as a result of natural birth gone wrong and only one case is currently known of where a doctor was sued for doing a c-section.
In South Africa I'm not sure it's quite the same motivation. My experience of South African's in general is that we're quite a c
onservative bunch, and we're all still under the impression that the Doctor knows best and are happy to give in to their advice without much of a fight (or even a discussion). This is not to say that all women are like this - I'm basing this solely on a vast amount of conversations with women. And I think that this is slowly changing too.One particular close friend of mine, T, fought better part of her pregnancy to avoid as much intervention as much as possible, and boy was it a fight. T was threatened into getting an ultra-sound even though it was against her express wishes. One always has "the right" to turn down any medical procedure, but what good is this right if your doctor can turn around and refuse to treat you in the case of you refusing? The most ironic thing is that T had done everything she was supposed to in order to achieve her goals, like seeking the care of a midwife - but sadly this midwife was on the side of the doctor and also hinted at refusing care if T disobeyed.
Being the classy, ballsy chick that she is, she dropped said midwife and found another that seemed way more on-board with what she wanted. Not the easiest decision to make from my experience. In the end she had a beautiful homebirth, due in most part to her serious dedication to achieving that.
My own story seems like a very typical pattern to most women I know in SA who have ended up with c-sections. They get pressured into an induction and get left no choice but to have the c-section when it fails. It was even admitted to me that the problems that motivated the induction were found to be magically non-existent once my son was born. I too went with a midwife - something I thought would be a guarantee of a vaginal birth at the very least.
So back to the issue of c-section as a choice!
I personally feel that Doctors are abusing their position by insisting on c-sections, for whatever (personal)reasons. There really is no defense for an 80% c-section rate in South African private hospitals. The rate in government hospitals is still much higher than the WHO recommended rate of 15%, but it is far, far lower than 80% (maybe around 40-60%, depending on the province).
Women are being strong-armed into unnecessary major surgery, with the threat of denial of care if they exercise their right to informed consent (in the case of a private patient). Government Hospitals are not somewhere anyone wants to give birth - and I can say this from having worked in one while studying nursing.
I honestly feel that the only way to prevent doctors from doing this for their own convenience is to no longer allow it as a choice. It needs to be something that is medically necessary before someone is allowed to consider it to be an option. Having an extreme phobia about pain is quite obviously a good reason to have a c-section, but seeing as a c-section can also involve a fair amount of pain then surely counseling is in order?
Women in South Africa are being denied choice under the current laws. They are told they have the right to informed consent and informed refusal, but information about the risks of c-section is rarely, if ever, given to them. In the case of a private patient refusing a procedure she can be denied care and are left with finding another care provider (and there are only rare gems who favour vaginal birth) or going to a government hospital where the most extravagant pain relief you are given is two paracetamol tablets in the case of a vaginal birth.
Medical Aids also have to be considered in all of this, as they also have a fair amount of persuasion when it comes to doctors. And pretty much all private patients will have medical aid. Medical Aids are currently structured in favour of planned c-section births where they will cover the entire procedure 100% whereas a vaginal birth will end up with the member having to pay in money from their own pocket!!
C-section is the only on-demand major surgery a person can have. It carries the same risks as all other major abdominal surgeries, yet despite the fact that doctors are supposed to seek surgery as a last resort, it has become the first choice for them. It's "no big deal" and women are lead to believe that it's easier and safer.
Currently there is no independent source of information in South Africa about childbirth other than one's own doctor. This needs to change, and so do laws so that women are given back the control over their bodies and their babies. They also need to be able to do with without fear of being refused care.
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