Letter: A home birth can end up in hospital, but it is worth the risk
Your support helps us to tell the story
My recent work focusing on Latino voters in Arizona has shown me how crucial independent journalism is in giving voice to underrepresented communities.
Your support is what allows us to tell these stories, bringing attention to the issues that are often overlooked. Without your contributions, these voices might not be heard.
Every dollar you give helps us continue to shine a light on these critical issues in the run up to the election and beyond
Eric Garcia
Washington Bureau Chief
Letter: A home birth can end up in hospital, but it is worth the risk
KATE DE Selincourt misrepresents the Active Birth Movement. We aim to introduce women to the benefits of "natural" resources for labour such as upright positioning, the use of warm water, relaxation and breathing. But we also encourage women to be open minded about what can happen during birth and to introduce them to a wide range of possibilities, including epidurals and Caesarean section if birth is difficult. Kate planned a natural birth at home but her baby was born by emergency Caesarean. I am surprised that she was not aware that this kind of emergency can occur.
It is most unfortunate that she is still plagued by a sense of loss and regret after the great achievement of producing a baby. It is important for her and for any woman, when a complication arises, to honour herself for having the wisdom to accept the benefit of obstetric back-up.
Janet Balaskas
The Active Birth Centre
London
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments