I just read an awesome book on childbirth! No, I'm not pregnant yet but I am currently very curious about childbirth...maybe getting mentally ready for what may happen in a couple of years. I'm also very interested in the alternatives to the epidural/elective cesarean type of hospital childbirth. Ina May Gaskin is an internationally known midwife and author who has helped more than 2,200 mothers and babies through the birth process at her birthing center at The Farm commune in rural Tennessee. I just read one of her books, "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" which I found in the library. It has completely changed my attitude (and scared mentality) about bringing a baby into this world. If you're interested, I suggest the read.
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Would def. like to make some time to wrap my head around a healthy and thoughtful approach to childbirth. Anything in particular that surprised you the most in the book?
What surprised me the most is the sexual aspect of birth. I have been really ignorant about birth and just associated it with the most painful experience in a woman's life. Now my attitude is that it can be her most beautiful, euphoric (even orgasmic!) experience. Ina May really focuses on the mind/body connection and the environment in which we give birth as big factors for how well it will go. She's big on avoiding common hospital practices such as c-section, episiotomy, vacuum or forceps delivery which leave the mother in pain after birth and less effectively able to care for her baby. Pain after birth also leading to a greater rate of postpartum depression. Ina May also takes wisdom from midwives in cultures more in touch with the ancient practices of giving birth. She points out that the U.S. is one of the only countries not to regularly use midwives. She also provides wisdom on how to have the birth experience you want in the hospital/Ob/Gyn setting.
there is a big push to license midwives here in NC. i've known a few people to do various forms of natural childbirth. i'm definitely intrigued!
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