My Favorite Picture

My favorite picture in the whole world is of my mom, while she was 8 months pregnant with me, and my dad in front of my new rocking horse, dark wood paneling decorated, nursery. My dad, only 22 at the time, with his youthful smile, acid-washed jeans, and Snap-on tools t-shirt looks so utterly happy and excited about the near arrival of his first born son or daughter. My mom's emotions were complete opposite of my father's. She is dressed in light yellow pants, with a big snap-down collard shirt with a very 80's floral print on it. She is uncomfortable and tired. Her belly is so swollen, and see has dropped significantly, it's a wonder that she carried me for another month. Her deep, dark circles around her eyes are symbols of her OCD nesting, inability to get comfortable during the night, and her work, which required her to stand on her feet.

I love this picture, because I love and appreciate the sacrifices my mother made to bring me into this world. I love mothers, I appreciate there dark circles, frumpy pregnancy clothes, and swollen bellies because out of them comes innocent, pure life.

Post Partum Depression

You have had a great pregnancy, with virtually no complication; except for your battle with nausea every morning the first trimester! Your pregnancy was exciting and the much anticipated arrival will have everything he or she needs due to generous baby shower gifts, and craigslist finds. Your pregnancy was great, and you were so happy to have you baby. A couple days later you come home from the hospital, and that's when it happens. You cry for no reason, you don't feel like an adequate mother, you can't eat and can't sleep for fear of not tending to the baby's needs. To you, life is over as you know it.

Today, approximately 70-80% of women suffer from what is known as the "baby blues" The baby blues is the most mild form of post partum depression. It normally starts 3-4 days after the baby is born and can last about 2-3 weeks. This form of depression does not need you to seek medical attention and does not require antidepressants. Most of the time the baby blues are do to hormonal changes happening in your body and the stress that comes with taking care of a new baby.

There are three other types of depression under the post partum depression umbrella, they are: Post Partum Anxiety, Post Partum Depression, and Post Partum Psychosis. I will be explaining about each in greater detail in upcoming posts.

For now, has anyone had the baby blues? If you feel comfortable, share your thoughts!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to deliver my baby?
This is totally up to you, and what you are most comfortable with. Women who have high-risk births would probably feel more comfortable with delivering from a hospital. However, women who want a more natural birth would probably feel the best at home. Where you want deliver has a lot to do with how you want to deliver.

What are the risks and benefits of a C-section?

According to the CDC, a C-section is counted as a major abdominal surgery, and classified as a maternal morbidity. A cesarean should not be your first option. It's important to remember that a woman's body is built for labor, and there is a good chance she can make it with out a cesarean. However, do not feel like a "failure" if you are not able to have your baby vaginally. If you have a high-risk delivery (i.e.-multiples), than a cesarean may be the best option for you. The important thing to realize is that a c-section is a MAJOR surgery, and the recovery time is longer than a vaginal birth. There are also some risk associated with cesareans for the mother and child. Mothers risks include: hemorrhaging, infection due to surgery, uterine rupture for the 2nd delivery, a more difficult time breastfeeding, and an increased risk of other major surgeries late in life such as: a hysterectomy, bladder repair, etc. A child's risks include: breathing problems then and later on in life, premature birth, and fetal injury (the surgeon can actually nick the baby while making the uterine incision).


How many women in the US die from childbirth?

We've come a long way since the 20th century with our motherhood mortality statistics. Today, less than 1 out of ever 2,500 women give birth by a cesarean die, and less than 1 out of ever 10,000 giving birth vaginally die. But compared to the rest of the developed world, we still have a long way to go.

What do the acronyms VBAC and UBAC stand for?

VBAC- Vaginal Birth After Cesarean UBAC- Unassisted Birth After Cesarean Many women are not allowed to have a vaginal birth after cesarean due to doctors worries about the risks involved. However, women go at great lengths to not have another cesarean. They will travel out of state to find a mid-wife who will deliver a VBAC, and if the can't find one, women will go as far as to deliver their babies by themselves at home.

What are the risks and benefits of pitocin and other synthetic hormones used to induce labor?

Pitocin is the synthetic form of Oxytocin used to induce labor. Pitocin is not fully like oxytocin because it make the contractions more strong and painful (according to several women who have had their babies with and without an induction). Inductions are on the rise for convenience purposes. But an induction using pitocin can also be used for hypertension, preeclampsia, heart disease, gestational diabetes, or bleeding during pregnancy.

What is an episiotomy?

An episiotomy is an incision made between the vaginal opening and the anus (the body part is called the perineum) to prevent tearing during birth. An episotomy is painful, and can take a while to heal. Many people argue that tearing is better than an incision, because the body is very efficient at repairing tears. However, many OB/GYN's argue that a tear is not as easy to sew up as a straight cut is. Using a birthing stool (it looks like a chair with a hole in it) can help to stretch the perineum and prevent tearing. Also, not forcing the baby out of the vaginal canal quickly, and massaging the perineum can prevent tearing.

Should I save my baby's cord blood?

Yes! Cord blood is used in stem-cell research. It is know to help cure over 70 different types of diseases including: neurological problems and Juvenal diabetes. You can go to several Chord blood banks web-sites to find out how to ship, etc. http://www.cordblood.com/index.asp

How much does the average hospital labor and delivery costs?

The average cost is $7000-10,000 without insurance. So, it is important that you have insurance that covers the cost of your prenatal care and labor and delivery. If you can't afford the cost of the delivery and have no or little insurance, than you may be able to qualify for Medicaid. To see if you are eligible, you can go to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MedicaidEligibility

What about a water birth?

Water births are viewed as a little too liberal or extreme, but a water birth can really help during the birthing process. A pool can be rented for around $300, so it's not very expensive. As the mother gives birth, the pool allows her to relax and gain mobility (which is central to the natural birthing process). A great website to find out more information about a water birth can be found at: http://www.waterbirth.org/

Doula?

Doula comes from the Greek word meaning "woman servant, or woman who serves" A doula does just that for you during you labor, delivery, and postpartum. Doulas provide physical and emotional support during such an important time. The are certified usually through Doulas of North America International. Doulas use techniques to help you relax as much as possible, and use techniques to assist you in having a natural birth.

Midwife?


Midwives and nurses who are certified to assist in the prenatal care and labor and delivery of infants. After nursing school they usually go to school for another two years to become a certified midwife. Midwives have a lower infant and mother mortality rate than babies delivered by an OB. However, midwives aren't even allowed to practice in some states. If your labor is high risk, you may want to have a midwife deliver your baby in the hospital with an OB and surgeon on staff in case anything happens. http://www.midwiferytoday.com/

OB?

OB's have the ability to preform cesareans and are trained very differently depending on the doctor. Some OB's train with doctors who use more natural methods, and some don't. It is important to sit down with your OB and talk about your birthing plan, his philosophy, and what he would do in a few given situations.

Wow!

Medicated Pain Management Options

Every woman has different ways she deals with pain. A friend of mine had an all natural birth for her three children because she has an extreme fear of needles. Another friend said that the epidural is the best thing that ever happened to pregnant woman. Whatever your feelings about medications, needles, natural vs. medicated, its important to be well educated about all of your options.

Epidural Block

• This seems to be the drug of choice now for laboring women.
  
• This form of anesthesia removes most feeling from the lower half of the body
• Women report feeling more pressure rather than pain
• This form of anesthesia may be used during a c-section
• It is inserted into the back through a large needle or epidural catheter.
• Can cross to the placenta
  

Spinal Block

• The spinal block is much like an epidural in the fact that it numbs the same parts of the body except it does not last as long as the epidural
• The spinal block only lasts about 1-2 hours and is administered right before birth.
• can cross to the placenta
  

Local Anesthesia

• Local anesthesia is given during an episiotomy or if bad tearing occurs.
• It is injected right into the skin or muscle
• This form on anestesia does not affect the baby

Pudendal lock

• This is given shortly before delivery to block the pain the perineum may experience
• It is injected into the pudendal nerve
• Safe, side effects are rare.

There are more options then the above mentioned. The key to deciding your pain management options it understand the risks and benefits that accompany each medication.

Lactation Consultants

A lactation consultant is a certified breast feeding specialists who helps to promote breastfeeding by showing new mom's how to do so. A consultant offers advices, answers, and support. Consultants works in a variety of settings, including: hospitals, birthing clinics, private practices, public health clinics, and pediatric offices. Lactation consultants are certified through the International Lactation Consultant Association.

There are several benefits you gain from seeing a LC:

1. A LC can help prepare you for breast feeding before your baby is born.
2. Help you make breastfeeding a success
3. Can help you with special circumstances: nursing multiples, clogged milk ducts, nursing premature babies, etc.

A Lactation Consultants services can range from $65-100 dollars and hours. This fee usually consists of a few phone follow-up's. Is it worth it? This is a question you have to ask yourself. Today, the average cost of formula for the first year is about $1500-2000. If you purchase a few good nursing bra, breast pump, lactation consultant, and bottles, you're looking at spending about $700.

For new mothers, a lactation consultant is beneficial if you plan on breastfeeding. You can locate one in your area here.

Midwives and Doulas

Midwives

“Midwives are the most appropriate primary health care providers to be assigned to the care of normal birth.”

- World Health Organization

v Midwives have been around for centuries and were the primary care givers for prenatal care, labor, and delivery.

v Midwives are primarily used for low-risk births, and practice a more natural birthing method.

v Certification:

o Lay-Midwife: Is an uncertified midwife who is trained through apprenticeship and self-education.

o DEM: Direct -Entry Midwives can be trained in a variety of ways. Self-study, formal education, apprenticeship, etc. They usually practice independently.

o CM: Certified Midwives posses at least a bachelor’s degree and are certified by the College of Nurse Midwives.

o CPM: Certified Professional Midwives is trained in midwifery and meets practice standards of the North American Registry of Midwives.

o CNM: Certified Nurse-Midwives are trained and certified in nursing and midwifery. They possess at least a bachelor’s degree and are certified by the American College of Nurse Midwives.

v Benefits of Having a Midwife:

o Give you a more natural approach to childbirth

o Let you make many decisions

o Lower Maternal Costs

o Give you a relaxed environment to have your baby

o Less technical interventions

v Great Websites for more information:

o Find a midwife at: www.birthpartners.com

o Find a midwife in Utah at: intermountainhealthcare.org and utahmidwife.net

o More Info: www.americanpregnancy.org

Doulas

v What is a doula (from dona.org)?

o The word doula comes from the ancient Greek meaning “woman’s servant.”

o A doula, as described by DONA International is a “knowledgeable, experienced companion – who stays with them (the mother) through labor, birth and beyond.”

o There are different types of doulas.

§ Birthing Doula assists you through you before, during, and just after labor and delivery. The give you physical and emotional support and education during that time.

§ Postpartum Doulas assist you after your birth in whatever ways you need. Their primary role is educating you after you’ve had the baby, and making you feel comfortable, healthy, and confident as a new mother.

v How much does a doula cost?

o The cost of a doula depends on her training and location. The range is $300-$1000. The average is about $500. If you live in a big city, obviously the price will increase. Several doulas will negotiate a price to fit your wants and needs.

v What are the benefits of a doula (from dona.org)?

o tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications

o reduces negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience

o reduces the need for pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction

o reduces the requests for pain medication and epidurals, as well as the incidence of cesareans

v Great Websites for more Information:

o www.dona.org –Learn about and find a doula here

o www.doula.com

o www.doulanetwork.com

o www.childbirth.org/doula

What is your Birth Plan?

Making a birth plan helps you decide what you want during your birth (that is if all goes according to plan with the delivery). There are several benefits to having a birth plan:

• You can research and know what you want for your birth
• You can involve your partner in the decision making
• You can keep your provider up to speed on your wishes
  
• You can go over your options with your provider at appointments
  
• You can feel educated about options and decide what is right for you
  

Please know that if something does not go according to plan, you should be flexible and trust that your provider is doing all he or she can to ensure the safety of you and your baby.

Please share your experiences with your Birth Plan and if you thought it was helpful or not.

Here are some links to create your own birth plan:

1. Baby Center Birth Plan
2. Childbirth.org Birth Plan
3. birthplan.com

Happy Planning!!!

OBGYN's

I know my Frequently asked questions post was bias about OBGYN's, and for that I apologize. I talked about them being quick to induce, use other pain medications, and not being likely to stick to your birth plan. Some OBGYN's are like this, but most are NOT.

OBGYN's have gone through the training to preform cesareans, and use other techniques to help you get the ultimate goal: a safe and healthy baby. Find an OBGYN that is willing to work with your birth plan (as long as your birth plan is within reason- do not ask to have 87 candles burning in a hospital so your baby can be welcomed with a dim light and all different flavors. Two words: Fire Hazzard!).

Labor and Delivery Symposium

Hello Ladies. If you live in the Utah area you definitely need to come to BYU for a labor and delivery symposium sponsored by Women's Services and Resources. It is a unique opportunity because you get to ask questions and hear from a midwife, lactation consultant, doula, OB, and a labor and delivery nurse.

It will last 4 hours, but you can come and go as you please. There will be light refreshments, and kids are allowed. I urge you to come get informend in a baby-friendly, question -friendly atmosphere.

If you have any question, please contact me via email lbtwining@gmail.com

Reaction to: "Increased rates of complications in childbirth parallel rising number of Cesarean sections"

Cesarean's are on the rise in America, and so are the complications coming from them.

http://www.kansascity.com/news/nation/story/992810.html


Studies are showing that having a cesarean brings increased chances of , "kidney failure, respiratory distress syndrome, shock and ventilator use..." But, more and more women are having c-sections for convenience and other reasons.

In 2007 the World Health Organization conducted a large study about birth, and found that the survival rate of the mom and baby is put at a much higher risk when the mother receives a c-sections.

Other studies have brought out that having a cesarean increases the chance of breathing problems for the baby. Maybe this is just coincidental, but my mom seems to believe I have asthma because she had me by c-section after 48 hours of non-progressing labor.

Jennifer Block, author of Pushed: The Painful Truth about Childbirth and Modern Maternity Care explained,"Some hospitals have cesarean rates exceeding 40 percent and even 50 percent. U.S. maternity wards are fast-becoming surgical suites."

I'm not implying that c-sections are the worst option, but why are some women demanding them, and why are so many doctors letting them go though with it when their recovery time is so much longer and the risk of complications with themselves and the baby is so much greater?

Introduction to Childbirth in America

I live in a country where 16% of our GDP is spent on health care, but we have the second lowest survival birth rate of any other developed nation. And even worse, those nations don't even spend one forth of the amount on health care that we do. Yes folks, that country would be the United States of America.

99% of all births in America happen in a hospital, where about 60-70% of births in other countries happen at home or birthing center. Do women have options as to how they want to birth their babies? In some states it is illegal to birth your baby at home. Do you think this should be appealed?

My purpose for creating this blog is to get incite from other women who would know why we have such a poor birth survival rate in America, and what we can do about it. Also, I hope to find out all birthing options, so that when the time comes for me to bring a child into the world, I will be prepared and confident knowing I have a birth plan that will be the healthiest for myself and my baby.

I invite all to comment and share their experiences with childbirth. Your experience and knowledge combined with as much research I can do on my part will hopefully give women an educational avenue to increase infant and mother mortality rates, and thus bringing America's birthing statistics where they need to be.