I am writing
to express my disgust and misgivings over your plan to broadcast live a
c-section tomorrow.
Caesarian
Section's are not an operation to be taken lightly!! They are a
major abdominal surgery and are the most medical method of delivering a
baby. It is not glamorous, it is not easy, it is not dignified! It is not
a procedure to be taken lightly! In no way is it easier then a natural
vaginal birth! C-sections are meant as a final resort for a serious
medical situation in a pregnancy. Not for a 'just in case' scenario.. How
many first time mothers are now going to see this story and book in to be
sliced open, because it looks easy!
I hope you
will show the whole process, from epidural/spinal being inserted, catheter
being put in, canulars being applied, shaving the pubic area, the enema,
swabbing the abdomen, slicing through skin, fat, muscle, uterus. The
'pulling apart' of the abdominal muscles to get to the uterus, the doctor
reaching in to find the baby, the 'pulling out of the baby, the look of
shock and fear on the babies face at the bright lights, the cold clinical
smell. The 'repair' of the uterus, the pulling the muscles back to
position, the staples used to close the wound.. THEN, the mothers
inability to even hold her baby straight away, no feeding, no cooing, no
touching. Oh hang on, yes the holding and cooing is done by strangers,
unless the father is 'allowed' to do so. Then show how long it takes
the mum to be able to walk, to lift, to do normal everyday activities
without the fear of her stitches popping..
Maybe you
would then find it in your programming to show the other pole of
childbirth- a natural homebirth, without the bright lights, without
strangers in masks, without the immobilising drugs.. The beauty, power and
sanctity of a woman birthing her child, into her arms, with tears,
laughter and awe..
Sincerely-
Isis
Caple
