Title: RE: [ozmidwifery] Birth Parties
Up here too they say 2, although many of the midwives consider a doula to not be counted as part of the 2 and will be open to more besides. Obviously the idea is to restrict it to only those there with a purpose & not crowd the midwives ability to work, both great reasons, protecting the birth space is vital. Just not always explained, not only not properly but sometimes at all. People come out saying I cant have more than 2 people but they felt they could benefit from 3 proper support people. This means they are denied the choice unless they get assertive or ask others until they get a different answer. Most dont do that of course because they are not aware that there are different possible answers. It astounds me sometimes that some people dont think twice about having a Dr & his entourage of students pour into this sacred space and yet balk at more than 2 support people. Just another of the many contradictions found in the world of pregnancy & birth. Personally I have 4 for my first ( they were all useless) & I had my doula & husband for  my second (Mum running around making things tense for the first few hours), I have to say that regardless of numbers well picked support is the essential element. I have worked as part of teams of Dad, friend/mum & doula along side midwives & had this work extremely well. There is alot of work especially in a long labour for just 1 or 2 people.
 
Will love & respect,
 
Philippa Scott
Doula
Birth Buddies
Supporting Women ~ Creating Life
President - Friends of the Birth Centre Townsville
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Friday, September 30, 2005 5:06 PM
Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Birth Parties

Andrea wrote: "This ancient policy has not really been challenged in many places and is accepted" and "I keep explaining in the many workshops that I have facilitated in the UK that we have had an "open door" policy in Australia

Well, this is not always so in W.A.  there are major and minor hospitals here who have a "2 only" policy.  I am glad to say that this is not always strictly enforced, but that is the stated policy.  MM

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