I don't usually pay attention to polls. However ~
A recent online poll of expectant mothers showed that 34% became interested in natural childbirth methods because "it is how we are supposed to give birth". Over 16% said their interest in natural childbirth was because the recovery was faster. And 11% stated it was perceived as a safer method.
Natural childbirth IS catching on, even in Hollywood. Celebs who choose natural childbirth rarely make the news but the who's who list of natural childbirth advocates is growing. The most noteworthy spokesperson of natural childbirth lately is Ricki Lake (with Abby Epstein), in part due to her film "The Business of Being Born" and her new book "Your Best Birth: Know all of your options, discover the natural choices and take back the birth experience". She joins the ranks of famous moms such as Laila Ali (CBS Early Show), Melissa Joan Hart, Minnie Driver and Maria Bello (The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor) who all experienced natural birth.
Lake and Epstein point out that while 99% percent of births in the U.S. take place in hospitals and one-third are cesareans, the vast majority of births are not high risk and may not require medical intervention. But the fear of pain combined with unnecessary hospital protocols cause many couples to narrow or relinquish their options. The authors discuss the pros and cons of such interventions as episiotomies, epidurals and electronic monitors, and encourage women to carefully question their practitioners and hospital personnel.
This may very well be one of the most important books of our time!
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