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An English obstetrician, Dr Grantly Dick-Read, summed it up beautifully in his book, "Childbirth without Pain". In a nutshell, he described the "Fear-Tension-Pain" Syndrome as programming by society on womenkind to expect pain. And what you expect is what you get.
The expectation of pain, introduces the "fight or flight syndrome". This increases blood flow to the limbs by 200% -300% and also produces adrenaline.
The effect of this, is to direct the blood away from the uterus and placenta where it's needed most critically. The uterus, which needs to expand gradually, is hit with the adrenaline, which constricts muscles. The sum total of this disastrous combination, is PAIN.
Simply providing this basic information, goes someway to alleviating this problem, however reprogramming expectant mothers with relaxation and guided imagery, goes alot further.
There is a group of therapists who provide a process called HypnoBirthing which is centered around this concept, and the results are spectacular. Gentle birth, baby entering the world nourished because the placenta has been adequately fed and no trauma.
Regards,
-------Original Message-------
Date: Wednesday, 20 November 2002 02:51:32 PM
Subject: [ozmidwifery] birth and the power of the mind
I have often thought that the power of the mind would have a vast impact on labour and so forth. Haven't 'been there' for too many birth and each has been with women who were really sure, informed and so forth, but fear played a HUGE factor in my experiences. Could people please share their knowledge on how fear can impact (or doesn't if the case may be) on labour lengths and especially in regards to vbac. My vbac although supported and informed was still long and hard, but the second vbac was great as there was that self assuredly and understanding that my body knew what it was meant to do so my brain didn't fear what my uterus was doing.
Also does anyone have comments on "is simply providing information alleviate fear?" When women are 'empowered through information' is this really all that needs to be done to empower, or does faith have an important role to play? Does the faith or trust of those around the birthing women have an impact on her empowerment?
There's a couple of questions for those beautiful midwifery students to ponder (and the seasoned professional).
Jo Bainbridge
founding member CARES SA
email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
phone: 08 8388 6918
birth with trust, faith & love...
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