Tuesday
July 1, 2008
I received an email from a midwife today who found this blog, offering encouragement and information as well as links to a few websites worth investigating. I am deeply touched by her willingness to spend the time to write to me, and in that one email, and the hours that followed it, my heart began to expand again. Perturbation, I believe its called ……the ripple that goes out and out to touch the shores far away.
I’d gotten a bit wrapped up in the reaction, the rebellion, the anger at how little resources are available here in the Keys for women who want to approach birth in a more gentle, innate and natural way. I realize now that one of the gifts in this is that you learn to trust your own intuition about it, and to make wise choices based upon research and information. This, ultimately, builds confidence (which I’ve obviously been lacking). But with Heidi’s email and her suggestion of a few midwives, I was able to investigate some websites which sent me into a perfect labrynth of articles, videos, and affirmations from other professionals and women who have been there before. I will list them along with my other former ones on the sidebar of this blog for anyone who is interested.
The first link she sent, Rosemary Birthing Center (in Sarasota), helped quell much of my building anxiety. In their home page, they list their philosophy:
Birth is a sacred, natural journey that will unfold when allowed to on its own. The intimate connection that is established through personal prenatal care between the mother, the family and the midwife enhances the power to give birth that already lies within each woman. She feels supported and safe, allowing her to birth in her own unique way.
We believe that:
* Birth is a normal process that for low risk, healthy mothers does not require intervention.
* Babies are fully conscious at birth. Their birth and the moments surrounding its unfolding are essential. This is not only for the baby’s development as a person, but is of upmost importance in establishing an intimate bond with their family.
* Educating women and families empowers them to make informed decisions regarding their health and wellbeing.
It reassures me to read this, as it is in total alignment with my belief about how this can be. I understand that sometimes things can and do go wrong, and intervention is necessary. I applaud our modern science for its ability to step in and save people from illness, emergencies and tragedy. Including women who need help during labor, and their babies who are so vulnerable. But there are boundaries, and yet again, I am learning how to define them.
And then a quick flash of thought: however she is born will be perfect. However SHE chooses to enter will be exactly the manner in which we need to learn and grow. I am not undermining women who choose the hospital experience, the scheduled c-section, pain medication, etc. etc, and I understand and feel fortunate that I have technology as a back up if needed. Again, I know am not in “control.” Just doing what I feel is responsible so that I can offer this being a joyful, gentle, healthy, minimal stress birth experience.
