Birth as an American Rite of Passage
As you prepare your birth plan, you are probably becoming frustrated with all the conflicting information about procedures for labor and birth. I continually get questioned by students who want to know why routine procedures that have been demonstrated as ineffective at best and may even be harmful, are still done. I have no answer for this; however, I have heard several theories.
One of the most thought-provoking theories about childbirth procedures is presented by Robbie Davis-Floyd PhD in her book Birth as an American Rite of Passage. According to Robbie Davis-Floyd PhD, unnecessary and harmful procedures continue to be utilized becasue they help promote the values and beliefs of a culture that is focused on science and technology, rather then focused on the individuals science and technology is supposed to help.
On the adjoining pages you can read excerpts from the book. This section is taken from a chapter called "Birth Messages." This book has been updated and can be found in bookstores and libraries. Robbie Davis-Floyd, Birth as an American Rite of Passage, 2nd edition. Berkeley: University of California Press, 2004.
Topics:
Wheelchair
The Prep
Presence of Partner/Separation of Partner
Enema
Replacement of Clothes with Hospital Gown
The Bed
Fasting
I.V.'s
Pitocin
Analgesia
Artificial Rupture of the Membranes
External Electric Fetal Monitor
Internal Electric Fetal Monitor
Cervical Checks
Epidural/Caudal Analgesia/Anesthesia
Lithotomy Position
Sterile Sheets, Disinfectant, and Hand-Strapping
Episiotomy
Mirror
Apgar Score
Prophylactic Eye Treatment
Vitamin K Injection
Bonding Period
Bassinet/Warmer
Four- to Twelve-Hour Separation
You May Also Be Interested In:Read some Sample Birth Plans and get information to help put your birth plan together. Find out about ways to reduce unnecessary pain in labor. Learn ways to handle Childbirth Challenges. Find out what normal labor is like. Review the birth plan options that may be available to you. |
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