Who knew that I could be so affected by Ricki Lake? Having just watched The Business of Being Born, a documentary that exposes birthing practices in the United States, I was drawn to her book. I'm left utterly confused now when, in fact, I thought I had it all planned out. The book talks about the ridiculously high c-section rate of 31% in America compared to other countries and shares stories of powerless mothers whose instincts have been replaced by drugs and other unnecessary interventions. And then, the book discusses another way . . . the way to be a birth goddess. The way not to be cut open and shot up with needles.
Unfortunately, I think this book had an unintended effect on me. I was so affected by the statistics and comparisons of other health care systems that I'm not sure what's best anymore. I was feeling more powerful and confident before Ricki Lake's influence.
I think I better go back to summer chick lit and Pulitzer Prize books before I lose my perspective.
Hey! Have you read any Ina May Gaskin- just to add to your hippie reading:)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.amazon.com/Ina-Mays-Guide-Childbirth-Gaskin/dp/0553381156/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1274145369&sr=8-1
Have you checked out the birth center on Grand? That said, I likely would've died had I not had an OB/GYN.
Also, my massage therapist does rockin' maternity massage if you're looking.
Hmmmm... I have to tell you... I felt the same after reading several childbirth books. While I so admire the 'birth goddesses' my body made decisions for me. Go with your instincts as long as you trust whomever is working with you. I actually consulted an acupuncturist and liked it.
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