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Fresh Links for Birth and Breastfeeding JunkiesTue Mar 09 2010 Wrapped Up in Baby-Wearing
"Since the birth of her daughter, Azure, more than two years ago, Ilana Grostern has devised ways to transport her baby that do not involve a stroller." Lawsuit Claims Botched C-Section Nixes Sex
"As a pregnant Karen Whitfield underwent a Cesarean section, she had no idea she was saying goodbye to the usual act that causes pregnancy." Planned C-Section Worse for Baby
"There has been a lot of controversy about the rising rate of cesarean deliveries worldwide. Now a new study reveals newborns delivered by a planned c-section are more likely to end up in intensive care than those delivered via planned vaginal delivery." Birth Options
More choices give moms-to-be a sense of control. It Touches Our Hearts
"Sitting on a folding chair in the Blue Hall in Tuttle, it can be overwhelming. It's more than the smell of desserts and hot dishes sitting on a side table. It's the people. Women with white hair held in place with a scarf. Boys keeping their pants up with big belt buckles. Everyone sitting there, eating, and talking about the family that's brought them together." ICAN Names Top 15 Studies That Should Keep Mothers Out of the OR
"As the number of cesarean sections in the U.S. continues to mount, so does the research showing that mothers and babies may be paying a high price for this surgery. Research published just in the last year has highlighted the short-term and long-term risks of undergoing a cesarean, for both mother and baby. Other research has called into question the assumed safety advantage of cesarean section over vaginal birth in various situations including vaginal birth after multiple cesareans and breech deliveries." Questions Remain About Newer Type of Fetal Monitoring
"If uteruses had windows, doctors would have a relatively easy time keeping an eye on how fetuses coped with their end of the birth process. Fortunately, most, sight unseen, do just fine." Cribs to Stop SIDS Program Gets Funding
I think this program is misguided. I bet for a lot less money, the state could educate parents on safe bed-sharing. While they are at it, how about encouraging breastfeeding? The other problem I have with this program is that suffocation is not the same as SIDS. This is an anti-suffocation program, not an anti-SIDS program. Mothers Stage National Nurse-In at Airports
"Charlie Yaker's enormous blue eyes rolled back in elation and a blissful, drunken-sailor expression settled on his face. The 6-month-old had just finished breast-feeding Tuesday morning near the Delta Air Lines ticket counter at Logan International Airport, unperturbed by the frenzy of holiday-season travelers." 4 in 10 U.S. Children Born in 2005 Were Out of Wedlock
And, the cesarean rate continues to climb to a record 30.2 percent. Flying Bernie Sanders and the Breastfeeding Freedom Fighters
This is pretty funny! Ongoing Coverage of Breastfeeding Mom Kicked Off Of Plane
"Emily Gillette, the mom making headlines around the word as “the woman kicked off a plane for breastfeeding,” contacted Mothering regarding her experience. We asked her the following questions:" Freedom Airline Responds to Breastfeeding Incident
A little birdy told me some mamas will be staging a nurse-in in front of Delta counters at airports across the country. Check out Promom.org or Mothering.com's discussion forum for details. Flu Drug Tamiflu May Cause Odd Behaviour in Children
"Officials at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration don't know if the more than 100 new cases of strange behavior, including three deaths from falls, are tied to the drug, to the flu itself, or a combination of both, the Associated Press reported." Mother Feels Blessed By Conjoined Twins
I loved this sweet article! What a dedicated mother and what an absolutely wonderful attitude she has. Her babies are lucky to have such a mommy. Nursing Mothers Pumped About New Lactation Station
"Pumping milk for her child in a dark little bathroom isn't Rachel Ortiz's idea of a good time, but the 25-year-old mother of two has done it." Wear Your Baby
Advocates say the practice makes for an easier transition for the baby, who is used to being in the womb. Education in Childbirth
Research turns up answers and questions. Are Cesareans Really Best in Breech Birth
This is a very informative article about breech births. New Mexico Midwives Make Headway in Medicaid Reimbursement
"169 Midwives Outnumber the State's 154 Practicing Obstetrician Gynecologists in Model State for Midwifery" The Thinking Mother's Alternative to Britney Spears' Cesarean
"While Britney chooses major abdominal surgery to have her baby and a sculptor creates what should have been – Britney on all fours letting the baby come out naturally on a bearskin rug -- there are still women who like to read scientific advice on the best way to have a baby." Judge Orders Bail for Women in Midwifery Case
"A judge recommended Friday that two midwives should each be released on $20,000 bail while they appeal recent felony convictions and 30-month prison sentences." Breastfeeding Lowers Mental Health Risks
"Babies that are breastfed for longer than six months are less likely to develop mental health problems in childhood, new research shows." Technology Intensive Childbirth is the Norm
"Although the great majority of pregnant women in the U.S. are healthy and have good reason to anticipate uncomplicated childbirth, Childbirth Connection's new "Listening to Mothers II" survey shows that technology-intensive childbirth care is the norm." Babies' Green Revolution
"Pink and blue are passe. The hot thing in the children's market these days is green." Diaper Snobs
"On a recent "baby visit" with a CBC employee and her architect husband in downtown Toronto, I watched as they changed Daya, their four-month-old. What was shocking was not the contents of the diapers (been there, done that), but the fact that my very feminist, modern friend was using cloth." Just Who a Mother Needs
"As a noisy jumble of children plays nearby, Maya Eleazer welcomes eight other young mothers to a special meeting of the Sky Valley La Leche League. The room is crowded. A few kids are laughing, one is crying and a couple babies are nursing, nestled on their mothers' laps." Production Line Maternity Wards Give Rise to Infections
"The rapid turnover in London's maternity units could be putting mothers and babies at risk of infection. That's according to a report by the Evening Standard which highlights the "conveyor belt" service being offered in London's hospitals." Collaboration Gives Women Birth Choices
"Tiny paper hearts for the newest of the newborns are delicately displayed on the wall. Thousands more are tucked away in scrapbooks. Every little heart, with a name, a weight and a birthday, is a remembrance of each new life born into the hands of the nurse midwives at the North Shore Birth Center." Scrap Routine Scans Say Midwives
I thought the most interesting part of this article was the comment section! UNICEF Promotes Exclusive Breastfeeding to Save Children's Lives in Indonesia
"The death toll does not have to be so high. The Indonesian Government estimates that some 30,000 young children could be saved if their mothers exclusively breastfed them for six months, then continued breastfeeding with supplemental foods until the age of two." Reproduction Revolution: Sex for Fun, IVF for Children
Interesting reading, good for stimulating mommy brain cells. (Surprisingly) I have my opinions on this article, but in the interest of keeping cans of worms closed, I will not comment! Natural Births at Risks from NHS Cuts
Few would argue that the health care system in the U.S. is working well. I have noticed that many in the midwifery community are promoting a single payer system in the U.S. as both a financial remedy and a means toward fully incorporating midwifery into our system. I don't believe either will happen and we should look long and hard at the problems in other countries. Do we (American women) really want the government to have MORE control over our birthing options? Elective C-Section Risks Under Scrutiny
"New science that shows voluntary C-sections are significantly more dangerous than vaginal deliveries has caused a stir among the obstetrics and childbirth community." Vaginal Birth a Safe Option After Multiple C-Sections
"Very few, if any, obstetric topics have raised more discussion and controversy in the past several years than VBAC, or vaginal birth after cesarean section. Most studies on this subject have come from small, single institutions or have relied on birth certificate data with all of its inherent inaccuracies." Celebrating Midwives, Supporting Lifelong Wellness for Women
"The resurgence of midwifery in the last 20 years is providing a strong foundation for a new vision of women's health care. Midwives have helped focus this new model of care so that it now emphasizes wellness at every phase of a woman's life." Mama-Rama: An Appreciation for Midwives
"When I was pregnant with my first baby, I didn't have too many pre-conceived notions about how I'd want my birth to go down. I didn't care if I had massage or aromatherapy or herbs. I didn't envision a dim room full of candles or the sound of Gregorian chanting in the background as I gave birth." Effect of Breastfeeding on Intelligence in Children
This is all over the news this morning, usually with a headline saying "Breastfed Kids Not Smart!" I briefly read the actual study and the authors say that the records they used differentiate between breastfed/not breastfed and do not indicate duration or exclusivity of breastfeeding. Darn! I don't think I would have spent all this time breastfeeding if only I would have known that my kids were not guaranteed to become rocket scientists! Forgetfulness and Motherhood Go Hand in Hand
"The process of losing my memory began with the birth of my first child. Each subsequent child and each passing year compounded the problem and confounded me." Pregnant Teens Take up Smoking to Avoid Pain of Childbirth
Well, isn't this just sweet? Caesarians on Rise Despite Risks to Baby, Mom
I actually thought this was an excellent article, but the following quote really made me laugh "by the 1980s the drive to push rates down was so great that doctors developed the VBAC -- vaginal birth after cesarean. It soon became the default procedure for the next birth after every Caesarean delivery." Oh really? Doctors invented the VBAC? Mothers, Babies Answer Breastfeeding Challenge
"A male reporter may at one time have felt unwelcome in a room full of breastfeeding women, but that is no longer the case. So when 25 women breastfed their children in a small room at The Centre Mall on Saturday for the Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge, they didn't mind that the media were there to watch." The Partnership That Delivers
"Doulas, lay women paid to provide support during childbirth, are becoming popular as they take much of the stress and even pain out of labour, writes Jackie Kemp." Baby Showers Go Green
"There were no gifts trimmed in glittery wrapping paper and nylon ribbon at Susan Rosenkranz's baby shower in September. There were no baby-themed paper plates for the soon-to-be mother, no streamers of pastel crepe paper or cakes accented with plastic rattles." Home Birth In Utah
"A beam of sunlight found Laura Lund as she sat in the middle of a makeshift room submerged in a plastic bathtub. A cold, blue washcloth hung around her neck. Her eyes were closed and her hands draped over her expectant belly." The Breast of Times
"My son turned 4 a few weeks ago. His birthday wishes included the following: real binoculars, anything to do with Spider-Man and to keep on nursing." Drug Free Birth Isn't Heroism, It's Humanism
"When I was pregnant two years ago with my son, my husband floated the idea of a home birth. No way, I said. I wanted - no, I needed - a pain-blocking epidural and viewed women who eschewed them as trying to be unnecessarily heroic. Didn't the women's movement fight for pain-free labors?" Battle for the Breast
This is an eye opening story (worth wading through some of the translation errors). I find American involvement in trying to interfere with increasing breastfeeding rates in a developing nation particularly disturbing. Home Sweet Home Birth
This is a good article about the Dutch maternity system. Caesarian Birth Triples Maternal Death Risk
"Caesarean delivery more than triples a woman's risk of dying in childbirth compared to a vaginal birth, according to a new study from France." Robot Helping Doctors, Nurse Prepare for Childbirth
I dunno. Something about this bothers me. Maybe its the idea that the normalcy of my birth could be measured using a robot as the benchmark. I had a similar feeling when I learned that physicians historically used cadavers for "practicing" childbirth. Why not just observe real woman? Any why is the robot blonde? Natural Parenting Has Believers in Madison Area
"Natural parenting - which is marked by raising children in the most sustainable, environmentally friendly and natural way possible - means different things to different people. For some parents, it is merely cloth diapering and breastfeeding. Some forgo strollers and cribs and practice baby-wearing (using slings and carriers) and co-sleeping." Nursery Decorating Tips
Create an "un-nursery". NurtureThink's September feature article about decorating an attachment parenting nursery. Booby Traps: Flying Under the Radar
BirthThink September feature article about breastfeeding on an airplane. Traveling with a baby is entirely doable! Got Mother's Milk?
This is the first time I have seen a news article about induced lactation. Cool! Disaster Plans for Childbirth
This is a really interesting article. I've never really thought about the need to stay out of a hospital during a pandemic. But it makes perfect sense! One of the reasons I have personally chosen homebirth is to avoid the nasty germs in hospitals. SIDS: A Heat Related Threat
"During warm weather, babies should not be allowed to get overly hot, because overheated infants are more likely to go into a deep sleep that could become life-threatening, according to the National Institute of Health's most recent tips for preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome." VBACs Officially Back at FMH
"Banned for nearly two years, vaginal births after Caesarean sections (VBACs) are back at Frederick Memorial Hospital." Notice in this article that VBACs are referred to as a "procedure" and that the hospital will "perform" them? That's funny, I thought I was the one that pushed my baby out. Nobody "performed" a VBAC on me. Future in Doubt for Childbirth Center
I've seen many stories of birth centers closing because of the cost of malpractice insurance. Note, that in this story the center has never had a malpractice claim. In fact, far fewer midwives are sued than obstetricians (which is to be expected because midwives attend lower risk births). Bad Vibrations? Ultrasound Disturbs Mouse Brains
"Prolonged and frequent use of fetal ultrasound might lead to abnormal brain development, a study in mice suggests. The finding sounds a cautionary note for pregnant women getting the commonplace procedure." Delivering a New Place to Begin in Roanoke
This sounds like it would be a really nice birth center. I do have a peanut gallery comment about the following quote from a hospital representative: "Nancy May, a spokeswoman for Lewis-Gale Medical Center, said the hospital had been approached about the birth center project, but didn't anticipate getting involved with it because the hospital has its own comprehensive maternity care center. Women who have normal vaginal births can have family present and can be involved in the care of the newborn, May said." Yeah, having family present and being "involved" in the care of the newborn... just like home! Hospitals really don't get it do they? Women are looking for something different and hospitals haven't a clue what that is. Company Makes Room for New Moms
"Some women sit in their cars. Others are forced into closets. And as they have for years, many lock themselves in bathroom stalls." Nature's Way
"Midwife Anne Lastrapes likes to compare her role in natural childbirth to that of a coach and his football team. “The coach wouldn’t go out there and say, ‘your arms don’t look like they are strong enough to throw that ball 100 yards, and so I really question whether or not you’re going to be able to do that.’ They’re gonna lose the game,” she says. For Lastrapes, it’s the same with giving birth. " Cherished Midwife Feels Mothers are True Heroes
Another older article. But a good one! VBAC Backlash
I found this article whilst wandering around the net. It is a bit old (2004), but still relevant. Also, it is written by a daddy thinker instead of a mommy thinker (for a change). I like his concluding lines: "But choosing between the two options isn't a matter of right or wrong, statistical clarity, or policy imperatives. It's a judgment call—one that a hospital has no business making." Yup. Sadly, though, if you look through my old links, you'll find a more recent article from June of this year that chronicles the loss of several midwives from the hospital the author of this article raves about. Home Birth Advocates Continue to Fight
Medical doctors in Nebraska don't want women to have access to midwives. I wonder why. The review process that leads to changes in laws is steered primarily by physicians. Conflict of interest? VBAC Reality Check
I gotta admit... I found this article to be very irritating. Yes, VBACs are not as safe as laboring without a scar. HOWEVER, using rupture stories as a defense for a hospital not offering VBACs is indefensible. If a hospital is going to ban VBACS because they can't handle the risk of rupture, then they better not offer vaginal births at all because ANY woman can have a rupture. Actually, I'm beginning to wonder if a 100% rate of surgical birth actually is the goal of hospitals. Mother Courage
Story of a mother's anguish and of a mother's love. It's hard to imagine these kinds of things happening to families... but they have and they still do in certain parts of the world. Judge Orders Teen to Have Cancer Treatment
Look out parents! If your state's social services office doesn't like the decisions you are making for your family, they'll get a court order. This is positively chilling. Another Breastfeeding Benefit: Pain Reliever for Newborns
Interesting research. But should newborns really be subjected to painful procedures? Past Practice Reborn
"Supported by soft cushions, Jennifer Burkholder lay on her side, her husband's hand resting gently on her curved belly. Together, they inhaled slowly to the count of 20, and exhaled to the soothing sound of their doula's voice." Genzyme Reports Second Quarter Financial Results
It seems there is some money to be made from the 30 percent plus c-section rate! "Sales of SepraTM products grew 28 percent to $22.0 million, up from $17.1 million in the second quarter a year ago. This growth was driven partially by the increasing use of Seprafilm® adhesion barrier in major gynecologic procedures, including oncologic surgery and Cesarean sections." What's Best for Baby
This is a nice co-sleeping article. Teen Fights for Right to Pick Cancer Treatment
This isn't a birth story, but the idea of the medical establishment forcing their values onto individuals through the courts is part of the bigger picture that includes birth choices. The idea that this boy could be forced to undergo chemotherapy against his will (his parents support his position) is chilling. Study Backs Natural Birth After C-Section
"A study out today could lead to an increase in the number of pregnant women who try for a vaginal birth after a cesarean section, a type of delivery called a VBAC." Family Matters: Side by Side
"In bleary-eyed desperation late one night, she brought Jacob into her and husband Eric’s bed instead of returning him to his bassinet. When the baby woke, Snyder soothed or nursed him back to sleep. That night, the Snyders joined the ranks of co-sleeping families." No Midwives Allowed
I have been personally involved in this battle. Nebraska obstetricians and hospitals have historically and are currently strongly resisting allowing midwives to practice in the state. I am very happy to see this coverage from the Lincoln Journal Star. Woman Tries to Clear Virginia Witch Convicted 300 Years Ago
"Grace Sherwood was a healer, a midwife and a widowed mother of three sons. Her neighbors thought she also was a witch who ruined crops, killed livestock and conjured storms." Interesting story... though sometimes I think that modern day midwives are still subject to witch hunts. Vaginal Birth Safe After C-Sections
"Of the nearly 18,000 women involved in the study, ruptures occurred in 0.9 percent of women with multiple previous C-sections and 0.7 percent of women with one C-section." Firm "Decision to Incision" Time Frame Questioned
"They concluded that "we are forced to confront the fact that a benchmark has been established that can never be experimentally tested." Childbirth the Boulder Way
"Boulder moms are less likely to have cesareans, in part because elective cesareans--which have become de riguer in some parts of the country--are not allowed at the Boulder Community Foothills Hospital, the only hospital that delivers babies in Boulder city limits. The episiotomy rate is likewise one of the lowest in the country." Undergoing a Cesarean Can Be Very Emotional
"I was very surprised by the emotions I felt afterward. I went through months where I cried every day about the birth of my daughter. I felt as though I hadn't "given birth," but that her birth had been "taken." It turns out I was not alone." Baby Powell Arrived Without a Hitch
Another cute homebirth story. The Risks of Not Breastfeeding
"It is a hot button issue and a very personal one; breastfeeding. For most women, it's a choice; but a recent government campaign is warning new mothers of the risks if they don't breastfeed." Help is on the Way
"Mothering the mother may sound like a strange career but it's what Ottawa's Susan Martensen does for a living." Woman Celebrates 20 Years of Midwifery
"Ann Orndorff, a licensed nurse midwife, said her biggest honor was delivering her granddaughter, Sofia Orndorff, on May 6, 2005." Women Should Have Labor Choice
Health Minister Ivan Lewis said..."We believe that we have to trust and respect women, give them the information then allow them to make the best choice for themselves." Ahhhh...if we could only hear that from a prominent American health official! Move Over, Daddy
Interesting co-sleeping article. I wish the American Academy of Pediatrics would change it's stance as the Canadian pediatricians have. Nelly Furtado on Motherhood
"Nelly was asked by Blender Magazine what she considers herself. She replied, "Hippie! I had a homebirth with midwives." Pushing Away the Pain
"What made the difference for Mauery - and for a growing number of women around the globe - was hypnobirthing, a natural childbirth method, which uses self-hypnosis and relaxation to alleviate or avoid stress during labor. Those who successfully use the techniques report shorter deliveries with little or no pain and often no medications." Midwives Birth a Trend
"Instead of a conventional hospital birth, Heidi Teeple and her husband Rod brought baby Logan into the world while soaking together in a freestanding tub of warm water in their living room, with a fire in the fireplace and two midwives at their side." Banned Breastfeeding Icons
Not a news article, but an interesting link. These are samples of some of the breastfeeding icons banned on LiveJournal. What do you think? Indecent? Most Mothers Quit Breastfeeding Far Too Soon
This is a story out of Canada, but I would venture to say that the climate in the U.S. is very similar. Loss of Midwives Upsets Users of Gifford's Birthing Center
"The changes are causing distress among many women who have given birth there, or plan to. The mothers fear the departures signal the loss of a unique Vermont health care option – a place to give birth in a home-like environment free from unnecessary and unwanted medical intervention.' The Modern Dad
Changing gears a little here and sharing a story about fatherhood for a change! Midwives an Affordable Option for Many Mothers
"Instead of a conventional hospital birth, Heidi Teeple and her husband Rod brought baby Logan into the world while soaking together in a free-standing tub of warm water in their living room, with a fire in the fireplace and two midwives at their side." Roadside Delivery
Cute story. Not to ruin it with my commentary or anything, but I want to add in response to the line about many doctors not "allowing" VBACs that it is a MOTHER's choice as to what she ALLOWS to be done to her body. A woman can turn down a c-section legally, even if the hospital doesn't ALLOW it. VBAC bans are hospital policies, not law. Popular Blogging Site Restricts Use of Breastfeeding Photos
"LiveJournal cites images as 'inappropriate' and sends mothers to the virtual restroom." The Trauma of Childbirth
"Carol Midgley talks to Sheila Kitzinger, the author of a book asserting that many women are left psychologically scarred by the West's conveyor-belt approach to having babies" SD Law Prohibits Home Birth Practice for CNMs
"In an effort to eliminate options for birth, the State of South Dakota has reaffirmed it's stance that Certified Nurse Midwives may not attend home births in South Dakota." City Babies Get Taste of Cafe Society
"A midwife is hoping to bring breastfeeding back in fashion after setting up the city's first drop-in baby café." What a cute & novel concept! Our 10 lb Mini Adventure- And Do Try This At Home
I love this headline! Photographs at SPA Document Black Midwives at Work
This is a particular interest of mine. The idea persists that homebirth before hospitals was a dangerous business. Yet, I frequently come across these kinds of stories where homebirth midwives have provided compassionate care with very low mortality (compared to mortality statistics of the time). British Secretary to Dept. of Health Urges Mothers to Opt for Home Birth
"Rapid City Area Nurse Midwife Hopes for Same Choices for South Dakotans" Salon is Given Thanks for the Mammaries
"A BEAUTY salon is set to be given an award for accommodating women who want to breastfeed." U.S. Has Second Highest Newborn Death Rate in Modern World
This article pretty much speaks for itself. Though, in the spirit of offering my two cents... it is interesting that there was no note of the normalcy of midwifery care or high breastfeeding rates in, for example, the Scandinavian countries where the best outcomes are. ACOG: Rising Cesarean Birth Rates in US Tied to Obesity
I don't think the headline and the story are consistent. The headline leads us to believe that ACOG has determined a definitive reason for rising rates even though it was "difficult... to get good information on the reasons for these births". Germ Linked to RU-486 Also Linked to Childbirth
"A rare germ that killed four California women who took the abortion pill RU-486 has been implicated in the deaths of even more women after childbirth or miscarriage, broadening the debate beyond abortion on the eve of a meeting to examine the bacterial mystery." Midwives Offer Special Deliveries
This is a story from Connecticut about nurse midwives. Codeine Can Turn Toxic in Nursing Mothers
Women are given a myriad of drugs during and after interventive vaginal births and cesarean deliveries. We are continually told that everything is safe. This story is a perfect example of the law of unintended consequences. The truth is that there are many unknowns and women should be demanding more caution from our medical professionals and an end to the intervention and drug buffet. Multiple Birth Mothers Aren't Restricted to Cesarean Surgeries
"When it comes to twin births, two times the fun doesn't always mean twice as many complications. Cesarean surgeries are not requirements for women pregnant with multiple babies. Not only is it possible for mothers of multiples to give birth vaginally, but research shows that it often is the safer option." Midwife Practice Closure Hits Hard
This editorial makes some excellent points about economic problems with our current health care system and how midwifery is affected. There's No Place Like Home
Excellent, in depth homebirth story. International Midwives Day
International Midwives Day is May 5th! Here is a link to the MANA website with celebration ideas. Take the time to thank your midwife on this day! Birth Practices Committee Holds Inaugural Meeting at CIMS Tenth Anniversary Meeting
"The US Birth Practices Committee (USBPC) held its inaugural meeting in Boston, MA on February 25, 2006. The mission of the multidisciplinary group is to encourage, conduct, evaluate and disseminate research related to the best practices in birth care for childbearing women and their families in the United States and its territories. The USBPC is composed of prominent individuals and representatives of many American organizations with interest in the health of women and families." Breastfeeding Moms Seek to Break World Record
THOUSANDS of nursing mothers will attempt to break the Guinness World Record on simultaneous breastfeeding in Manila on Thursday "to stress the importance of the practice and bring the people's attention to its benefits." Mom Gives Birth on the Front Lawn
Not a planned home birth, but a cute story! I'm glad she avoided a c-section. Mothers Got Wrong Advice for 40 Years
"Charts used in Britain for decades to advise mothers on a baby’s optimum size have been based on the growth rates of infants fed on formula milk." This has also been true in the US. Prominent Role of Black Midwives Honored at Smithsonian
I have previously shared a news story about this exhibit. I like the storytelling flavor of this article. I hope that women in the US, no matter what their race, will once again claim midwives as the preferred caregivers for childbearing. Its Time to Make Breastfeeding Ordinary Again
Another article specific to a certain state, but relevant everywhere. I do have to admit that periodically I scratch my head and wonder why breastfeeding legislation even has to be discussed. Breastfeeding is part of normal, healthy human behavior and it seems downright silly that it has to be an "issue". Birthing Rights
This story is written in the context of Missouri's current midwifery battles, but it ends up being an excellent, comprehensive story that addresses issues that are seen nationwide. State Questions Legality of Midwifery
News story from Indiana. Doctors fight hard against midwifery. It is a fight about money and control, not safety. The legislators who side with doctors are not looking at the evidence. They are blinded by bias, preconceptions and campaign donations. Birth decisions should be left to mothers. Off my soapbox now! Please proceed on to the article! Birth Forum Will Discuss Midwifery Legislation
This is a wonderful conference in Columbia, Missouri. The speakers and topics at this conference always seem to be top notch. Scotland Lags Behind as More British Women Pick Home Births
I like reading about midwifery and home birth around the world. Its interesting to see that the opposition from medical doctors toward home birth is not limited to the U.S. Mothers Aren't Behind a Vogue for Cesareans
Excellent editorial in the Boston Globe about the obstetrical community's mass delusion that women actually want cesareans without medical reason. American College of Nurse Midwives Calls for Accurate Reporting On Cesarean Delivery
The American College of Nurse Midwives responds to "inaccurate" and "misleading" headlines and reporting on the NIH panel on maternal request cesarean delivery. Lamaze International Disputes Recommendations on Elective Cesarean Surgery
"NIH research fails to assess long-term outcomes and harmful obstetric practices during birth... Future studies must also compare elective cesarean surgery to normal vaginal birth, or, at a minimum, control for the effects of harmful obstetric practices used routinely in hospitals. When elective cesarean surgery is compared to a style of obstetric management that has been shown to be harmful -- including unnecessary episiotomies, forceps and vacuum deliveries -- it gives the false appearance of equivalent risk between surgical and vaginal birth." Breastfeeding in the First Hour of Life Could Save Almost One Million Babies' Lives Each Year
Research on breastfeeding in developing countries. Breastfeeding is indeed a life and death decision, not just a lifestyle choice. This fact about breastfeeding is magnified in developing nations, for a variety of reasons, but it is an important health issue in our nation as well. Milk Me: Is the Breastpump the New Blackberry?
Interesting history of the breastpump. I don't agree with the author's take on the burden of being tied down to a baby, though. Believe me, there were times with my oldest when the breastpump was a lifesaver due to life's circumstances. But I've actually considered it a blessing, not a burden to be available to my two youngest children for exclusive breastfeeding without needing a breastpump. Smithsonian Exhibit Honors The Long History of Black Midwives
"One study revealed that the presence of a midwife helped to reduce the infant mortality rate in some counties. They were called wise women, but their roles were threatened by regulation and often governments that tried to eliminate the role of the midwife." Risks of Cesarean Delivery are Underreported, Benefits Overstated
This is a press release from the American College of Nurse Midwives. It outlines very well the problems surrounding rising cesarean rates. Women Are NOT Requesting Cesareans Without Medical Reason
This is an interesting survey. I have had a hard time believing the chorus I'm hearing from the OB community which is that rising c-section rates are significantly due to mother's request. I've often wondered who actually wants to have their abdomen sliced opened and organs moved around in order to fish out a baby. Four Factors Tied to Need for Cesarean Delivery
This study has me scratching my head. According to this article, all the women in this study were induced and 30 percent of them ended up with c-sections. Yet, induction wasn't considered one of the risk factors??? I think there is more to this story! Finding a Birth Option That's Right for You
"There is no right or wrong way to give birth -- the main goal is to customize the experience as much as possible for your needs right now. That means the way you did it before (or who was the caregiver you used before) need not dictate your course of action now." Strep Infection Turned Childbirth Into a Battle to Survive
This certainly is a very tragic story. This story demonstrates that there are no guarantees with childbirth no matter where you are, hospital or home. Infection is a real risk at hospitals. Most infections don't turn out to be this life threatening our, but it is an issue that affects mothers and babies in hospitals. Professor Passionately Labors for Nurse Midwives
"Besides the liability issues, physicians often consider nurse-midwives as competition in the birthing business, Fehr said." No Clear Reasons Found for Surge in Repeat Cesareans
I think it is in the best interest of doctors and hospitals who would prefer to keep the c-section rates high not to properly document reasons for the surgery. I believe that many c-sections are in fact coerced or result from an inadequate explanation of the risks. If this is the case, it is certainly better to leave this out of the documentation. Nebraska Friends of Midwives
Nebraska Friends of Midwives now has a website. Stay up to date with midwifery news and activities in Nebraska, connect with other midwifery supporters on the forums, read Nebraska birth stories & more! Trying to Boost At Home Births
It's frustrating to see that doctors (and some nurses) are protecting their profession, not women, by opposing a legal framework for independent midwives. I am unaware of any other profession that has such power in protecting themselves from competition. Benefits of Breastfeeding Continue to Grow
I've never seen evidence to the contrary. Meet My Teachers: Mom and Dad
Great article for homeschoolers or those considering homeschooling! Power of Moms Moves Through Halls of Legislature
"Their rallying cry for breastfeeding rights: It's all about the babies" Despite Medical Cautions, Mom "Trusts Her Own Body"
It's interesting how many hospitals will not "allow" VBACs supposedly because of safety issues, yet they will force women who wouldn't have chosen otherwise to have unattended home births. Museums Revisting Civil Rights Landmarks
I learned an interesting tidbit of information from this article... Martin Luther King was born at home! Study Claims Longer Periods of Breastfeeding Promotes Leaner Bodies...
Just something for your interesting file! I like to have these studies in my mind as a defense for extended breastfeeding, but in reality I do it more for the "mothering" aspects of the nursing relationship rather than because some studies tell me that its physically healthy! Oh Baby! Popularity of Midwives Rises in State
This is a story out of Georgia. The rate of midwifery-attended births has risen dramatically throughout the country. Scheduling Childbirth Growing in Popularity
I do think more women are requesting to "schedule" their childbirth, but I think one of the reasons is that doctors underplay the risks. Notice that the second mom in the story did end up with a c-section, but that's ok because "there were no complications". There may not be any future complications, but women should be reminded that complications from c-section can happen years down the road with painful adhesions or complications in future pregnancies. Pain-Free Birth? Try Hypnosis Instead of an Epidural.
Yup. I know I've said it before... it worked for me! New Midwifery Bill Shows Signs of Life
Wow! It looks like we have action all over the country on behalf of midwifery. I loved this quote: "but we do know people have the human right to have a conscience, and they will make the right decision." Why
I Wanted to Give Birth at Home
It was interesting to me to read how a maternity system can have cooperation and coordination between home and hospital for homebirths. This mother did run into the standard medical bias against homebirth, but she could still arrange for the birth she wanted. Many women in the U.S. have homebirths in secret and cannot coordinate with local hospitals and doctors. They simply have to show up at the local emergency room if a transfer is necessary. This way of doing things is certainly less than ideal. Legislators Consider Licensing to Bring Midwives Out in the Open
News from Georgia. There was one quote that stuck out to me: "home births are a reality in Georgia." So true. Home births are a reality in every state. States that do not allow midwives to practice openly, including Nebraska, need to understand this reality and adjust laws accordingly. City Council to Consider Breastfeeding Resolutions
Ann Arbor adds to the growing list of places considering enacting pro-breastfeeding legislation. Nebraska had a bill in the legislature last year which did not receive a hearing. Top Trends in Pregnancy and Birth
I'll definitely vouch for #3, "Hypnosis for Chilbirth". My birth using hypnosis was less painful than my first birth, which was epidural assisted. Midwife Bill OK'd Despite Med Groups
It shouldn't be forgotten that the "med groups", such as the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, who consistently argue against certifying non-nurse midwives are essentially labor unions. Competition or a different way of doing things is not looked upon favorably. Time to Deliver on Licensed Midwives
The latest in a flurry of articles about licensure for Certified Professional Midwives in Indiana. Stylish, Practical Cloth Baby Carriers are a Boon to Bonding
An article about baby-wearing in our own Omaha World Herald. Many beautiful pictures! You have to login to read it. Fear of Flying
The newest article on MommyThink.com. What do physicians fear most? Is it safer to drive or to fly? Yes, those questions are related! Read on to find out! Babies and Bucks
This is a new blog written by yours truly. Local Woman Born in 1898
Celebrates Her 108th Birthday
This is a sweet story about a retired midwife. Wow, what a life! Elective C-Sections on the Rise, Can Carry Health Risks
Could it be that elective c-sections are on the rise because obstetricians are portraying the surgery as routine and relatively risk-free instead of being truthful about the fact that a c-section is major abodominal surgery? Home Birth at
Fort Worden
The latest home birth in the news! I really like sharing these stories. Jury Sides With Parents in Malpractice
Suit
One of the factors driving physicians to perform more cesareans is that they are more often sued for vaginal birth gone wrong than for poor outcomes from c-sections. There have been several cases recently, including the one in this article, where doctors have been held accountable for injuries and deaths related to c-sections. Mama-rama: Drop the coach, get
a doula
This one made me laugh... great article about doulas in light of recent study supporting the idea that women don't need to be coached during pushing. Prenatal Care a Lingering Battle
"Heather Shemanski had her fourth girl in July but voiced frustration at long waits to see her obstetrician and the absence of independent midwives who have privileges to deliver at Foote." Midwives deliver excellent, personal care. They will take their time at prenatals and the one to one care during labor can't be beat. Having more midwives available isn't just a solution for Michigan! Midwife Bill Lacks Legislative Support
Missouri faces and uphill battle in transforming their midwifery laws. Nebraska faces many of the same obstacles including a powerful medical establishment, who, despite sound research supporting homebirth, continue to vehemently oppose a woman's ability to make an educated decision about with whom and where to give birth. Homebirth: A Matter of Choice
The final quote sums it up nicely! "It's all about choice, really," says one homebirth mom. "As parents, we spend our lives making the safest and best choices possible for our children. Why wouldn't we start with birth?" Midwives
Fight Hospital Rules
Hospitals and obstetricians regularly question the safety of homebirth even though studies demonstrate that homebirth is as safe as hospital birth. If they are so concerned with safety, why are they unwilling to work with midwives in transfer situations? Cooperative professional relationships improve safety for birthing mothers and babies. One Never Hears About Births Safely
Guided by Midwives
An editorial about home birth, perceptions of safety and media coverage. Study Finds No Clear Leader for Maternity
Wards
I'd like to see these statistics for every state. I'd also like to see statistics for midwifery outcomes right next to the hospital/obgyn outcomes. This would be eye opening information for women, I'm sure! Women Turn to Pain-Free Birthing Technique
This is an article about birth hypnosis. I used the "HypBirth" program during my birth and I can't say enough about it! I wouldn't say I had a "pain-free" birth, but the pain I did have was very manageable. Castor Oil Could Get Things Moving
I will file this under less serious weekend reads. I knew about castor oil for labor induction, but had no idea of its infamous past! I bet you didn't know that a comprehensive article about castor oil might actually be interesting (or is it just me?) More Advice Would Prolong Breastfeeding
"A new study shows that more women would breastfeed if they received advice and attention during and shortly after delivering their babies." Midwives are great for advice and attention during and after delivering babies! 12 Surgeries You May
Be Better Off Without
From Consumer Reports. I like seeing a "mainstream" organization sound the alarms about #3: C-section, #4: Episiotomy, #5: Hysterectomy, #6: Circumcision. Mother Knows Best at Dinnertime
This is kind of a fun study. But why don't my children like garlic or onions? Childbirth: The Ordinary Miracle
"...many aspects of female development remain invisible to our culture at large. Childbirth is no exception. The message of our society is that the experience of childbirth is unimportant." This is a wonderul piece. I do draw a different conclusion from the author about "what to do". I Chose Not to Become a Statistic
A short column written by a woman who stood up for her rights and refused a "forced cesarean". C-Section Rate Defies Best
Practice
The Maternity Center Association, established in 1918, addresses the rising c-section rate and the associated health and financial implications. I know, sounds dry, but this is information women need for informed decision making and are not getting from their doctors! Buying Baby Slings Can Help Tsunami Victims
What a wonderful project! ICAN Addresses New Alarming Statistics from CDC
This is the International Cesarean Awareness Network's press release addressing record c-section rates and deteriorating pregnancy outcomes reported in the CDC's new release of 2004 health data. Cesarean, Preterm Birth, and Low-Birth-Weight Rates Increased
More than 1 in 4 women give birth through cesarean. Unfortunately women must go out of their way to arm themselves with information before entering a hospital or they may find themselves the unwitting victim of an unnecessary c-section. Orange Slices: A Home Birth
Sweet, short story of a home birth in California. Nebraska residents should note that a certified nurse midwife attends the birth in this story. Nebraska prohibits CNMs from attending homebirths. Wave Bye-Bye to the Nursery
"Co-sleeping, or having the infant sleep in the same room as the mother, isn't a new concept — in fact, it's far more ancient than this thing we call a nursery. Archaeologists have yet to discover cave rooms painted with Pooh-like hieroglyphics." Enterprising Women Make Money With Business of
Homework
Here is an article recognizing the trend of mothers working at home. Nurse Midwives Resign in Dispute
Women who see midwives desire a different, more personal "product" than those who see physicians. This is another case of the bottom line dictating what kind of care women will receive. Don't Push Your Baby Out!
This is a review and commentary on a recently published study in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology about coached pushing versus "instinctive" pushing. There are links to three other good articles at the end of the commentary. Moms Take Nursing Goal Statewide
Public breastfeeding?!? Egads, say it isn't so! It is so sad that we have to clarify that breastfeeding IS NOT indecent exposure. Nebraska has no laws specifically protecting breastfeeding mothers, but most legal experts agree that even if it is not specifically spelled out, public breastfeeding is legally acceptable. Home Delivery
This is an article about midwifery in Illinois. Nebraska faces many of the same difficult issues as Illinois. A Home
VBAC
The third time's the charm... a home VBAC after one pitocin nightmare and one c-section. Midwife Gets a Thrill Every Time
This is a nice feature article about a certified nurse midwife in New Jersey. Help a Washington Midwife
This is an important matter for all childbearing women. Whether we birth with a midwife or with a high-tech obstetrician, it is a choice, and we need to preserve the ability of all women to make their own informed decisions. Women Can Attempt VBACs At or After 40 Weeks'
Gestation
This study supports the safety of VBACs for women over 40 weeks gestation. This is good news for those of us who normally carry for 42 weeks! The VBAC
Debate
Hospitals refusing to “offer” VBACs to women is a growing and disturbing trend. Just remember, ladies, nobody can force you into surgery even if it is “official” policy! Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine at Odds With AAP
This is the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine's take on the new AAP SIDS guidelines. |
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