Many women don't realize how much the choices they make regarding childbirth will affect the overall health of their baby. Unfortunately hospitals are a place of business and sometimes the procedures that are implemented reflect that.
Many of the professionals I interviewed for my new book "How to Prevent Autism" suggest always taking a less is more approach to medical interventions during childbirth. Obviously there are times when this is not possible such as in an emergency.
Here are some things to consider:
1. Pitocin speeds up contractions and can put more stress on the mother and baby leading to further complications during childbirth.
2. Epidurals are not without possible side effects and adverse reactions.
3. C-section is major surgery and doesn't allow the baby to pass through the vaginal canal and receive the good and bad bacteria that helps build their microbiome. It also delays that important bonding and breastfeeding. Now sometimes you can't avoid it and there are things you can do such as inoculate the child with the vaginal secretions after the birth.
4. Traumatic births increase the risk that your chid will develop developmental delays.
Some positive suggestions:
1. Hire a doula- They will be your advocate during the birth.
2. Take a Hypnobirthing Class- The breathing techniques learned will help support you and reduce stress on the day of delivery. You can use this breath work in all other areas of your life too!
3. Create a birth plan and go over it with your doctor- This way they are aware of your wishes.
4. Don't go to the hospital unless you are in active labor- This is most important as they bring out all the bells and whistles to push you further along rather than tell you to go home.
5. Read the book "Gentle Birth Choices" by Barbara Harper
You can find out many more tips and information about this subject in my new book "How to Prevent Autism"
