The Sandor Earl interview on Channel 9 Footy Show last night was compelling viewing. I urge you to watch it in full. You may be wondering what this has to do with pregnancy?? – well, I found many similarities with what happens to pregnant women. Here is a young person who trusted a scientist/doctor in authority. He apparently did not question what, why or how. Of course he didn’t! because he appears to be a well brought up young man who believes that anyone in authority, especially someone in a white coat, is to be trusted.
FALLOUT -the fallout for him has obviously been disastrous as it is for pregnant women who have blind trust and faith in what their family, friends and well meaning colleagues advise them about the best choices for their pregnancy care and birth. Michelle contacted me this week at 9wks. of pregnancy, saying she has booked the private obstetrician, private hospital, private classes etc. etc. because her ‘blind’ trust and belief is that this private care is best. Michelle says her obstetrician equated the care with 5 star hotel status but if she went for public care, that would equal 2-3 star, at the best! Compelling argument when you don’t know what to ask, how to ask and why. Michelle decided on getting a doula as she wanted a hypnobirth in water, without any intervention.
Far from wanting to burst her bubble, I do have a responsibility to encourage women to shop around, especially when they are expressing a desire to have a waterbirth option (which is not available in a private hospital). I suggested she question the services that are available, to have a look at the public hospital and their services, and to also interview a couple of homebirth midwives. She rang me today, and having looked at the medical intervention statistics in a couple of facilities, including homebirth, and asking the ‘right’ questions, she has cancelled her booking in the private system and booked a continuity midwifery model of care in the public hospital, booked into our hypnobirth Inside Birth course, and is in the process of booking a doula. She felt embarrassed that she didn’t think to ask questions, or ‘shop around’, and is relieved that she has been shown this insight early enough in her pregnancy that she could easily make some changes.
She no longer has fears, she feels relieved, comfortable and empowered by her choices.COME
OUTCOME -Michelle’s outcome for her and her baby will be a beautiful and joyous experience, unlike Sandor Earl. We must all question the what, why and how for our health. If you are pregnant and you want to know more then please contact me directly.
