I firmly believe that each woman should be treated as an individual and that the concept of blanket interventions for all is ridiculous. Birth is a natural process and if we trust it, it will most often work for itself. Most of the time, my job is to be present and provide support...not to manage...but sometimes that is what I need to do....
Erika was working on her first baby. She had been in labor for hours, when early in the morning she started having a LOT of vomiting. After a few hours of this, she and her husband and mom came to the center....she was so exhausted physically, yet so strong in spirit. They had been working on keeping Erika hydrated, but with the amount of vomiting, this was nearly impossible. I started an IV and gave her some fluids...what a difference and she actually took a little nap, which was perfect. Then, she had more vomiting, followed by some more. At this point, she was still strong in spirit, however, her physical self was starting to struggle. I wrote her a prescription for Zofran, an anti-emetic, and her husband went to go pick it up. We also did some herbs and Rescue Remedy, but that Zofran sure hit the spot. Erika was able to "catch her breath" and go on to have a great natural birth, surrounded by love and support, on the birth stool and welcome her 7lb little girl.
This is an example of when certain "medical" interventions can really make the difference and allow a woman to carry on and move forward. Do I think all ladies need an IV or IV access? No. But, do I think we should have these options when needed? The intervention itself is not the problem, it is the over use of the intervention that creates the problem.
i´m so in love with your blog:) thank you so much for sharing:) fellow nurse now following from norway:) hope you have a great weekend! renate
ReplyDeleteThanks Renate. I am glad that you are able to enjoy my blog and thanks for commenting it means a lot to me.
ReplyDeleteVery well-said! There are true instances where intervention/help is needed. Just because birth is a very natural process and should be allowed to progress on its own, we can still take advantage of medical/scientific discoveries to assist and aid in the natural birthing process. To completely shun all medical interventions as "unnatural" is absolutely stupidity as they can be life-saving when needed. We should embrace these discoveries and treat them as invaluable tools yet use them with extreme discretion.
ReplyDeleteAll interventions are just that...interventions. Even "natural" interventions need to be considered with respect and care. I am always concerned about "blanket" interventions that are routinely done just because "that's way we do it". Each MotherBaby is a unique situation with thier own strengths and weaknesses that will be to either be highlighted or suppressed....
ReplyDeleteAmen!!! I have always believed that it isn't the interventions that are the problems...it is those who believe every birth is the same and that women are 'broken' and always need help.
ReplyDelete