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I take serious offense as Karen Adams states that she believes a MOTHER is incapable of making an educated decision about her own care and her pregnancy.

We all know that there are risks that come with pregnancy and childbirth.  WHY can't a mother, knowing her own medical history, paying very careful attention to her test results and taking the initiative to follow up on all necessary care, be allowed to make her own decisions?

Perhaps some patients do not take this initiative.  But that should not limit us, as the patient, from being allowed to make the choice that we feel is best for us and our families.

The C-section rate is above 34% in the US, while the NEED for C-sections is 2.8% according to the AMA.

C-sections rates go up with the use of Pitocin, Epidurals, and laboring on one's back, when the pelvic structure collapses and is 1/3 smaller than in an upright or squatting position.

And once other conditions show up, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, breech, etc, the only option the OB has is surgery.  It may be convenient for the OB to do C-sections, but besides the physical scar on the mother and her uterus, you also have an increased risk of infection, bleeding, post-partum depression, difficulties in bonding with your child and difficulties in nursing your child.

Many mothers will do whatever their doctor wants.  And many mothers, even wanting a homebirth will look at the risks and decide that it isn't worth it to them.

But for those who know the risks, why should we not be allowed to make our own decision.  After all, if something does go wrong, who lives or dies with this decision?  Not the OBGYN.

posted 4 years ago
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