RE: [ozmidwifery] doula article

[Ken WArd]

Have any of you birthed alone? I did, back in 1976. It's lonely and scary. My other supported births were better. Maybe we are creating another stream of carers, we did this with lactation consultants. Women can have whoever they want in labour when I am caring for them, partners, relatives, friends. I suspect some have brought their private midwives disguised as a friend. Who cares? Who's important? -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Philippa Scott Sent: Tuesday, 7 September 2004 9:55 PM To: ozmidwifery Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] doula article This has since been said differently but I have written it so I'll send it in support of what Abby said.       That the selling of the need for a professional doula undermines a womans belief that she can give birth by herself, and is disempowering.     Would this not be the same for any birthing health professional then. Yes women can & do birth entirely alone. But not all want to. So we have midwives, Dr's, Doula's, husbands, families & friends (not in order of importance mind you) involved in the process. If a woman feels that she wants support then she should have it. By the same token I think a woman who wants to birth entirely alone should be respected for her choice. I may yet choose this for myself for much if not all of my labour & I'm a doula. I don't think it is about need. Birthing women dont need anyone in my humble opinion. If they were stuck on an island they would do what they had to do in most cases. It is about choices & preferences. Just my thoughts, I dont want to offend anyone & I believe we are all important in our own ways. Please dont take this the wrong way, I want to empower women to know that we are optional extra's.    Cheers Philippa Scott Birth Buddies