So today my oldest son turns 21. WOW, how time flew by. It was the experience from his birth that made me realize that hospitals don’t always have my best interest in mind when they force their policy on you. When I went in thinking my water was leaking they confirmed it was and said that I needed induction. After 24 hours and not progressing past 6 centimeters they scared me into a c-section. They literally threatened me saying that if we did not consent to an operation that my baby would surely die and I may as well. I was very lucky 4 years later when the same hospital encouraged me to VBAC. I am thankful for that, however I am still angry for my lack of knowledge for my first 4 births. That is no one’s fault but my own. I was not enlightened to the fact that I had options until I was exposed to the writings of other woman who made different choices and therefore had different outcomes.
My desire now is to empower other women with the knowledge that they do have choices and there can be a better way! Women do not have to be railroaded into the medical trappings of birth and all that entails. Homebirth is a valid option and should be considered. With a well trained and balanced midwife birth is more safe at home, where you will be respected and honored. Birth is a sacred event in which both mother and baby need respect, sadly this is not what happens most of the time. I want to offer this to every woman I encounter. If this is simply by encouraging a nursing mom or dropping the hint that they can stand up to things the doctors try and push on them. Women need to know they have a voice and they can demand it be heard. Unfortunately, if you really want to have a say in what happens to you homebirth may be your only option.
The whole idea just frustrates me as women do have the power within themselves to give birth and nobody really tells them that anymore. It deeply saddens me when I see so many give away the power they have because of convenience. You do not realize what you are missing out on by doing this. I say my goal is to empower women and this is done by educating then supporting by cheerleading you through the tough decisions. I can truly come along side you in support as I have been down the road of birth myself 8 times. I have been there, clueless to the fact that there is a different way. I have also been there with other midwife women who empowered me to experience what is possible. I have then gone back into the medical system and found that they really do not care about your experience but their policy still must control the situation.
This is why my passion to reach as many women as possible is so strong! Someone needs to encourage you and it will be me if I get the opportunity! My journey started 21 years ago today and I have learned so very much. My passion grows stronger every day!