"It is sometimes argued that modern women have lost the 'art' of giving birth and that culture and beliefs have so over-ridden women's natural responses that they require direction and assistance to birth normally. This overlooks basic innate drives to reproduce, and reproduce successfully, common to all species, and the ability of endogenous endorphins to create the necessary introverted and uninhibited states that form the basis for instinctive behaviours. Successful birth is far too important in nature for its achievement to be left to chance or luck: inbuilt mechanisms guide the process towards a successful conclusion, and these can be accessed provided a woman is willing to explore her hidden capabilities, and if she is provided with an environment conducive to this exploration." (Andrea Robertson, Empowering Women: Teaching Active Birth in the 90s, 101)
Andrea Robertson writes: "It is true that many women allow cultural values, fashion and personal beliefs to inhibit their innate abilities. It is also true that the current medicalisation of birth encourages women to forsake their own resources and embrace technology and external guidance during labour. The folly of this approach is only now being revealed through rigorous scientific studies. Meanwhile, many women have discovered, to their cost in physical and emotional terms, the inherent risks of tinkering with nature." (Empowering Women: Teaching Active Birth in the 90s, 101)
101 Reasons Why You Should Have Your Baby at Home
The Business of Being Born
Pregnant in America
1 comment:
I remember that! I love the expression on Rhett's face.
Post a Comment