Re: [ozmidwifery] Fund rebates
Grrr too. This is totally unacceptable and bloody outrageous - how can we change this???!! Kristin Naturopath CBE Dear Kristin and all You can:-)) Join MC cause we make representations like this all the time. In fact I will raising this issue with the Shadow Hlth Mins in a couple of weeks. Write letters to your local/state papers asking why the total lack of competition and care that is not based on sound health outcomes etc etc Inform all your CBE clients that PHI (Priv Hlth Ins) is totally discriminatory and does not allow choice (ie no midwifery care). It will fund joggers and aromatheraphy and yet the most important decision for a couple they are forced to use a priv obs at a priv hosp and by that very fact significantly increase their chance of unnecessary surgery and resultant morbidity. Support anyone who has PHI who wants a mid choice to approach their fund and request parity for maternity care (ie same costs covered for M/w¹s as Obs). When as they no doubt will say no. Take it further to the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman His details are Mr John Powlay and this is from their site www.phio.org.au You can raise a complaint with us by phone, email, fax or letter. Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Private Health Insurance Ombudsman Level 7, 362 Kent Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Complaints Hotline:1800 640 695 Telephone: (02) 8235 8777 Facsimile: (02) 8235 8778 Points to make (which I know you already know!!) *There are more babies born each year than any other health procedure. *In private health insurance there is absolutely no competition, it is totally medically dominated. *It is also an area that is crippling health funds (so much so that smaller funds actually tell you which Obstetrician you can see as they can only afford some). *Some funds are looking at providing a midwifery benefit (as they recognise the huge cost saving) but where is the Government support?? Still no assistance with insurance. With insurance all funds could offer choice (that would also double as a HUGE cost saver). Importantly it would also make PHI a viable option for rural consumers (currently as most rural areas do not have private Obs or even Obs there is no point joining up). This shows what a giant waste of money PHI is in its current form. Hope this helps
Re: [ozmidwifery] Midwife NSW Hornsby-Epping
Dear Kelly Robyn Dempsey lives close by Ph: 98887829 www.homebirthmidwives.com.au Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2337 Ph: (02) 65453612 0408 21 02 73 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
Re: [ozmidwifery] where has this list gone?
Dear Kelly and all Some additional information may assist you before you totally throw the NZ model out the window. For those of us who have lobbied at high levels, and been involved with writing (and selling!) NMAP etc we needed to totally understand the good and the bad of NZ. Kelly your statements re intervention in NZ on a broad brush are not totally true. One of the major down falls of the stats (ie c/s) is the midwifery interaction with obstetrics (ie large metro units that have the greatest birth numbers). To prove this look at the NZ rural units stats where midwives are providing a total care package without an obstetric unit and epidural service at the door. These stats are stunning. The funding arrangement is NZ is wonderful. It gives parity to each maternity health professional undertaking the same work. It has been legislated (s88). It also places the woman at the centre to choose her carer and direct payment accordingly. The consumer focus re dispute resolution is stunning. (Are you aware of this Kelly) Compare all of this with Australia. Women are mostly treated as a piece of meat that will make them money. Last week I heard a GP/Ob respond to 6 complaints with Well I'm trying to run a business. Australian women have no real choice. Choice of a private Hosp and private Ob is NOT choice. 1% access to midwifery is NOT CHOICE. So one of the major solutions for them (NZ) and us is a total midwifery scope of practice that does not place a woman within an obstetric dominated setting unless there is clinical need. This means home birth and stand alone midwifery units, this means women labouring at home for as long as possible (with their midwife). You only need to look at Australian co-located birth centres to get a similar picture. Yes it is the best we have but the 50% transfer rate is not representative of women's incapacity or midwifery care (on the whole). It is as a result of obstetric domination and protocols that have no basis of evidence. This is how we set midwifery and women up to fail. Why can't a woman with PROM labour in a BC? What difference is the transfer to a theatre from delivery suite to BC? This is a total furphy. So are many other's that exist. The answer in Australia is firstly a funding stream. Medicare for midwives (without restriction). Then women actually have a funded choice. From there many hurdles (no doubt). I agree women are the key, but it is nearly impossible to get women to fight for or even explore something they have no experience of. So a funded choice would get the cultural change happening. To do this we need midwives that are with women so I believe it is a partnership of change. Women will lead but midwives will be there right beside them. In solidarity Justine -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] waterbirth
Dear Sue Ah! Wipe that smirk off your face!!! My big plan does not involve me being pregnant!!! Many congrats on finishing the Bmid, after 23 years of an apprenticeship eh!! JC xx -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] waterbirth
Hi Lynne and all Me too please!! The Upper Hunter of NSW is one hell of a back water for birthing. Water immersion? Is that Greek? A couple of wonderful midwives still hanging on need to write a policy here too. Great to share what¹s already been successful . Happy New Year to all. I have a very big dream for 2007 that I will share soon JC Justine Caines National President Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] No Births at Ryde Birth Centre
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] No Births at Ryde Birth Centre Dear Abby, Janet and all I hope Sally Tracy answered your questions. I clearly said in my previous message that MC would advocate on behalf of any woman caught up in this. We will support women to achieve the birth they want. I am also happy to assist women in writing letters/ making representations to the AHS, local MPs etc. This is core MC business and the area I am most skilled in. If you come across women you can refer them to me or Carol Chapman, NSW President Carol Chapman [EMAIL PROTECTED] 0422107045 I will also speak to the local Ryde consumer group to let them know I am available to assist. Justine Caines National President Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] NO Births
Hey Brenda Why on earth would you sit down for that. Where are your consumers running to the media. It is only at election time will we achieve anything! JC Hush Hush is how these things happen. Same is about to happen to Rosebud midwifery but it's being kept quiet because we are 2 weeks from an election it'll affect the voting ! How's that ?? With kind regards Brenda Manning -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] No Births at Ryde Birth Centre
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] No Births at Ryde Birth Centre Dear All Ryde Midwifery Group Practice is not closing. For the immediate future all women booked on the RMGP will need to birth at RNS. I believe Ryde Hospital is having some issues and there is a view to remove the RMGP from greater Hosp issues (as the MGP is going beautifully) simply to avoid the MGP being caught up in any political who ha (like happened with Camden -and believe me I know because it was our very effective rally where we stole all of Bob Carrs thunder that got things happening in Camden). The thing with Camden/Campbelltown is when issues are levelled at a Hosp (even unrelated) it makes it very hard to get our work going. This is probably one of the reasons why the Camden model is still birthing in Campbelltown (mad, wrong, etc etc) but a political imperative (according to those with the power). Ryde is too important to the greater maternity reform agenda too lose in unrelated hospital issues. Whilst I am disappointed for the women who are birthing now and will be affected I think sometimes we have to weigh up issues for the greater good. At the same time we need to support the women in the here and now (this is something I have always arued for when bureacrats talk softly softly on reform) There are some options. If any woman wants to stand their ground let us know and we can support her. Otherwise I think we really need to insist that these women have the same facilities they could in Ryde ie access to water etc etc. Obviously they will still have their known midwife. Please let us know if we can assist in advocating for these women as MC was part of the establishment of the Ryde service and we have all the relevant contacts. In solidarity Justine
[ozmidwifery] FW: Sarah on radio national life matters 15 Nov
Title: FW: Sarah on radio national life matters 15 Nov Dear All Please tune in to Sarah Buckley on Radio National next week see below JC -- Forwarded Message From: Sarah Buckley [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2006 02:59:52 -0800 (PST) To: Wayne and Cas McCullough [EMAIL PROTECTED], rem melissa bruijn [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED], Justine Caines [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Monica Campo [EMAIL PROTECTED], Jenny Gamble [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: SArah on radio national life matters 15 Nov Dear friends Letting you know I will be interviewed on Life Matters re my book, Weds 15th between 9 and 10 (i think around 9.30). It wil also be podcasted I think, look here afterwards http://www.abc.net.au/rn/lifematters/ Please pass this around, I am away from my computer and don't have my address book to help circulate! Blessings Sarah Sarah Buckley
Re: [ozmidwifery] Sexual Abuse Support Groups for Birth/Parenting
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Sexual Abuse Support Groups for Birth/Parenting Hi Kelly Heres a mish mash from Australia and across the world Hope it helps JC Domestic Violence Incest Resource Centre Victoria Australia, 2006. Ph. (03) 9486-9866. DVIRC seem to help women re all forms of abuse and they have this on their website Pregnancy to Parenting: a Guide for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse http://www.dvirc.org.au/HelpHub/PregnancySexualAbuse.htm Information and referral to local services and support groups. (Note: we do not provide counselling but can refer to counselling services). Ph: (03) 9486-9866 9am - 5pm Mon-Fri. TTY (Hearing Impaired) Ph. 9417-2155. Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Website www.dvirc.org.au Most support groups for people who have experienced violence are run through community health centres or local neighbourhood houses. Please see the listing of Victorian support groups in our newsletter (updated quarterly), or phone DVIRC on (03) 9486-9866 for local numbers. http://www.m-a-h.net/library/parenting/article-sas-breastfeeding.htm This U.S site has a chat room and lots of articles /self help advice Le Leche League have some resources http://www.lalecheleague.org/NB/NBabuse.html Resources for Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault www.vansondesign.com/RecoveryCanada/SAResources.html The journey to recovery is often long and lonely. The burden of pain, the difficulty in trusting, the low sense of self-worth, all serve to enhance our feeling of isolation. It is the aim of Recovery Canada - The Wellness Network to help you seek out the information and support you need. We offer resources and services to aid you in finding information to help you on your journey and to help you get connected. We offer you the opportunity to share with others the things you have learned along your path to healing. Beyond the support forums offered at Recovery Canada - The Wellness Network you will also find a variety of Onsite Resources, Online Resources, and Offline Resources relating to sexual abuse/sexual assault. Each of the various areas is listed below. Heres some publications that may assist your research Kelly Ainscough and Toon (1993). Breaking Free, Sheldon Press, London. Bass and Davies (1988). The Courage to Heal, Cedar Press, London. Burian J (1995). 'Helping survivors of sexual abuse through labor', American Journal of Maternal and Child Nursing, 20, 5, 252-256. Coutois C and Courtois Riley C (1992). 'Pregnancy and childbirth as triggers for abuse memories: Implications for care', Birth,19, 4, 222-223. Davies L (1991). Allies in Healing. A Support Book for Partners,Harper Row, USA. Holz (1994). 'A practical approach to clients who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse', Journal of Nurse Midwifery, 39, 1, 13-18. Parrat (1994). 'The experience of childbirth for survivors of incest', Midwifery, 10,1, 26-39. Smith M (1998). 'Childbirth in women with a history of sexual abuse (1)', The Practising Midwife, 1, 5, 20-11 Parts 2 and 3 follow in consecutive months. Tilley J (2000). 'Sexual assault and flashbacks on the labour ward', The Practising Midwife, 3,4, 18-20.
[ozmidwifery] Victorian Election and rural Obstetrics
Title: Victorian Election and rural Obstetrics Dear All The following story is the same old spin from the Obs. I plan to engage the Herald_sun to see if we can get some real news and solutions into print. Can all you Victorians on list write in with Midwives are the answer type letters! Go to the Herald Sun website www.news.com.au/heraldsun You will find a send a letter choice under the opinion button on the sites main page. JC DOCTORS say it is only a matter of time before mothers and babies die by the roadside because of a critical lack of specialist obstetrics care in rural Victoria. Only 37 specialist obstetricians and gynaecologists practise outside Melbourne. Obstetrics services have disappeared from 34 towns since 1997. Wodonga senior obstetrician Pieter Mourik said the lack of maternity centres and specialist obstetricians in rural Victoria would inevitably lead to roadside deaths. It is not a case of if a woman and a baby is going to die, it is a case of when. It will happen, he said. Almost 16,000 babies were born in country Victoria last year -- an average of 342 for each of the bush's overworked specialists. In Melbourne there are 189 obstetricians and gynaecologists -- an average of one for every 246 of the 46,500 babies born in Melbourne last year. Mothers in the state's far east and northwest are hardest hit, with huge distances between specialists, forcing some pregnant women to endure up to four hours' travel to access care. Their plight has been made worse by a shortage of rural-based anaesthetists, which has left some mothers without access to epidural pain relief or an emergency caesarean without a risky mid-birth ambulance transfer. Horsham obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr David Morris said the shortage of rural specialists was at crisis point. He said the lives of women and their unborn children were put in danger by trips of up to three hours to reach his practice. It can be perilous for some women (with difficult pregnancies), he said. They have a choice of staying in hospital for two or three weeks before delivery, at great personal cost, or taking the risk the hospital will be too far away if they need it. The doctors warned the situation was about to worsen because many of the remaining rural-based obstetricians are approaching or already past retirement age. Of the remaining specialists, 24 are 50 or older, with eight over 60. Just three are under 30 and only two are women. Rural Doctors Association president Dr Mike Moynahan said further closures of country obstetric services seemed unavoidable, with about 80 per cent of the 167 rural GPs qualified to deliver babies also due for retirement in the next five to 10 years. Health Minister Bronwyn Pike said a national shortage of doctors was to blame for the decline in rural obstetrics. It's not a funding issue, a spokesman said. There haven't been enough doctors trained in recent years and lack of doctors leads to lack of obstetricians and anaesthetists coming through the system. Ms Pike said $4.4 million was being spent to recruit doctors from overseas and $4 million to promote midwife-led services at rural hospitals. Opposition health spokeswoman Helen Shardey said it was too little too late. Obstetric services have already closed down right across Victoria, she said. If you're looking to provide more specialists throughout Victoria you don't wait seven years, allow services to close and then announce you're going to spend $4 million bringing doctors from overseas.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Victorian Election and rural Obstetrics
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Victorian Election and rural Obstetrics Poor overworked obstetricians we should give them a raise. What are you talking about. Tony Abbott just did!! In September Rural GP/Obs who have attend 20 births get between $17,000 and $25,000 extra Please write those letters to the Herald Sun See below JC Ministers Statement from September 8 8 September 2006 ABB129/06 GPs providing obstetric services in rural and remote areas will be eligible for increased payments through the Commonwealth Governments Practice Incentives Program (PIP). From November 2006, GPs who deliver 20 or more babies a year will be eligible for a Procedural Payment of $17,000 per year. This will replace the current payment of $10,000. It is expected that the increased payment will cost about $4 million a year. This change should help maintain access to obstetric services for rural and regional women. A rural loading ranging from 15 to 50 per cent, depending on the remoteness of a practice, is applied to all rural and remote PIP payments. For example, with the additional rural loading, this payment will increase to $25,500 for the most remote practices. GP practices in rural and remote areas will be provided with further information on these changes and information on the application process through Medicare Australia
Re: [ozmidwifery] asthma in labour
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] asthma in labour Dear Suzi and all As the consumer who has experienced the other side in a small rural community I could have written the same post (except for the clinical nuts and bolts!) We too have Drs with no real interest in evidence and both they and half of the midwives show no interest in continuing education. Women too are lambs to the slaughter (and most cop it) What to do? Well I ponder this daily. I really think midwives have a responsibility to right the wrongs on the evidence. (You do need support for this I know). Remember you only need 2 committed consumers. They can do and say so much more. Why not set up a branch of MC (or link into one if you are close by). We will support the lobbying, media and advocacy. Together we can do it :-))) JC Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] RE: Risk
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] RE: Risk Dear All Further to our discussion on risk The Australian bureau of Statistics has a Mortality Atlas It is not available free but below is a snapshot Compare this with the Australian Mortality data for childbirth (1997-99) Yes that is the latest data. As usual they sit on this report (quite telling as to the importance of birthing women) The 19971999 maternal mortality ratio (MMR) was 8.2 deaths per 100 000 confinements, compared with 9.1 per 100 000 in 19941996. JC Mortality Atlas from the ABS Age Standardised Death Rates (average 1997-2000) Cause Males (deaths per 100,000 persons) Females (deaths per 100,000 persons) Malignant Neoplasms 237.8 146.7 Ischaemic Heart Disease 190.0 119.9 Cerebrovascular diseases 65.8 65.8 Chronic lower respiratory diseases 46.6 23.2 Diabetes mellitus 18.8 13.6 Influenza and pneumonia 13.4 11.4 Accidents 35.6 17.7 Motor vehicle traffic accidents 13.1 5.5 Intentional self harm (suicide) 21.9 5.5 Organic, including symptomatic, mental disorders (includes dementia) 9.3 10.8
Re: [ozmidwifery] term breech trial - ECV option
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] term breech trial - ECV option As a British midwife I have experienced lots of breeches but this was the first time in the water. It was amazing as the water stopped that hang and the pressure that the cord is sometimes under. Apart from dropping my trousers there was no contact with the woman and her baby, just whispers and encouragement. She did it totally unassisted complete hand off the breech. I feel so proud to be involved with women who have such confidence in their birthing ability. That's half the problems we are facing here. Both women and lots of midwives are scared and don't trust birth. As a midwife we should be highly skilled and knowledgeable, but knowing when to get involved and when to just watch is the greatest skill of all. Lisa Barrett Hi Lisa, Mary and All What a great story! My 2nd twin was breech and was also born into water (untouched until the very end). I had caught twin 1 but wasnt as quick with twin 2 so as she slid out one of our wonderful midwives lightly pushed the babe back towards the front so she would not bob up behind me and instead floated to the front and was essentially caught by me. My babe was footling breech (single). First I knew was our midwife said theres a foot. I remember thinking as her body slid out, brace yourself for the head but it was really quite easy (yes I had just birthed another babe I know!!). She had apgars of 9 and 9. The only discernable difference between her cephalic sister and her was she was a teeny bit shocked and had a wee cry. I am going to try and upload the photos somehow as quite a few people have contacted me (out of interest re twins) JC
[ozmidwifery] Midwives in Finland??
Title: Midwives in Finland?? Do we have any Finnish midwives on list? If not does anyone know of any? An Australian woman in Finland is looking for a Homebirth midwife. She was horrified by the following I just want to quote to you the section of the information booklet I received called 'we're having a baby'. This section is titled 'admission routines' and it says: 'The following procedures will be carried out on admission. First you will be weighed and washed and asked to change into hospital clothes. You will then be given an enema, as an empty bowel gives the baby more room. Your pubic hair may be shaved off. Your blood pressure and pulse will be taken and your urine tested for protein and glucose. An external and internal examination will be made to determine the baby's size, the size of your pelvis and how far the cervix is dilated'. Ta JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] RE: Risk
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] RE: Risk Hi Vedrana and All I think you are referring to the work of Jeff Richardson from Monash University in Melbourne. Yes it is very good stuff. Interestingly I spoke to him (some time ago) and one of his colleagues from the Health research unit at Monash. He understood my links between his work and obstetrics and yet would not do anything, fearful of maintaining his funding (I despair!!). I then spoke to a female colleague at his suggestion and she attacked me for saying childbirth was essentially safe (!!!) And then all but cried about her experience (!!). This is what we come up against when lobbying politicians and decision makers. You should find Jeffs work at www.monash.edu.au and then search for him Kind regards Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fwd: term breech trial
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fwd: term breech trial Hi Chris I am a rural consumer, with knowledge of practices pretty much across the country. The term breech trial has done us in. I agree the paper turning it on its head (no pun intended!) is basically being ignored. The only vaginal breech I hear of or see in the stats, (other than those at JHH with Andrew Bisits) in the system are the undiagnosed ones and if a woman is very lucky the 2nd twin who is dragged out by forceps after she has consented to an epidural (often the only way she will be allowed to have twins vaginally). So what to do? Midwives: Raise this in clinical forums and instead of presenting the evidence for vaginal breech ask Drs what their evidence is for routine c/s. If you come across women with a breech on board provide them with all the info Consumers: Put it out there that breech does not necessarily equal c/s and continue to mount the arguments of the furphy of risk (for much of obstetrics). Support women we meet to demand choice. JC Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
[ozmidwifery] Celeb Midwifery Aspirations
Title: Celeb Midwifery Aspirations Dear All On a quick flick through this weeks New Idea I read of Antonia Kidmans (Nicoles sis) is thinking of becoming a midwife. She is also expecting her 4th child next March. She currently hosts a show on Foxtel called Here to Maternity following couples from pregnancy through birth to postnatal days. Has anyone seen it? She is also an Ambassador for Sydneys Royal Hospital for Women at Randwick. I have not seen anything great or progressive (as you would understand). I think it would be good to make an approach to her because in the article she mentions the Nursing application forms!! :(( Guess we should let her know about B Mid and encourage her to think about what it means to be a midwife etc Anyone on list working at Womens? In solidarity Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fwd: term breech trial
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fwd: term breech trial thanks Justine are you aware of any consumer friendly information to give to women with a breech on board to help with decision making or do i have to create one myself chris Hi Chris No I am not aware of any consumer friendly info. Maternity Coalition has just embarked on providing 1-2 page info sheets for consumer educators and midwives (I think like the NCT in the UK). See MCs website www.maternitycoalition.org.au We should do one on breech. Would be happy to work together on this and then you would have it and so would the rest of Australia. Are you an MC member? It would be great to get a group in Bathurst as I often get requests for more progressive care from women in the area. It also reminds me of the whole quandary of risk and safety in maternity. I believe so much is hype and part of the fear/control campaign. There is a goods seminar on in Sydney next Friday (Oct 20) run by UTS. We should be getting anyone in a position to make policy etc to these days as fuel for our ongoing reform agenda. Heres the link for those interested and info below http://www.nmh.uts.edu.au/cmcfh/news_events/ Kind regards Justine Upcoming Events: 20 October 2006 : Balancing Safety and Risk in Maternity Care A seminar for midwives, doctors, policy makers, educators and consumers involved in maternity care provision The seminar, Balancing safety and risk in maternity care, is designed for midwives, doctors, policy makers, educators and consumers involved in maternity care provision. The aim of the seminar is to provide information about quality and safety, challenge assumptions and offer practical strategies to ensure that maternity services remain safe and high quality. The seminar will start with an overview of the quality and safety agendas and clinical governance. This paper will provide an overview of International and Australian perspectives and provide the attendees with the broad perspective in relation to ensuring safety in maternity care. Pat Brodie and Donna Hartz will then talk about the new incident monitoring systems in NSW and how these link to, and support, midwifery practice improvement. Hannah Dahlen will speak about the politics of safety and risk in maternity care before Justine Caines challenges the audience to think about who defines safe maternity care. The risk management process undertaken to establish the Ryde Midwifery Group Practice will be described by Michael Nicol. Managers will find Vanessa Owens session invaluable as she will discuss the challenges of managing risk or risking to manage. Amanda Adrian will then present about the legal issues in midwifery and maternity care as we respond to adverse events in maternity care. Finally, Suellen Allen and Caroline Homer will lead an interactive discussion to assist the audience to develop practical strategies to balancing safety and risk in practice. For more information on this seminar, please view the official flyer and registration form (pdf, 48kb) (version 21 September 2006) Registration closes on 12 October 2006.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Speaking of steps backwards...
Dear Kelly Is your friend well versed on the real risk of rupture? Has she articulated that the risk of spontaneous abortion (at 1-2%) following amniocentesis is higher than rupture from VBAC (and remember rupture is not always fatal). Get her to put the riskinto perspective. It is hard that she needs to do it, but there is help. Is she a member of Maternity Coalition? Midwives and Doctors who persist with this idea of risk when it really is so small are a disgrace (but hey they are everywhere). She needs to meet them head-on re the evidence and ask THEM why with the 1% risk of rupture they maintain these ridiculous protocols. ASK them where is their evidence. What are the relative risks of repeat C/S? Ask them to demonstrate that they know the comparison. MC could assist. Cas McCullough has just launched CANA. If she wants an advocate I am sure Cas could assist in some way. This is the info that you need to be getting out there Kelly for all VBAC women. Kind regards Justine -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] FYI news article
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] FYI news article Hi Kelly I would really like to talk with you and perhaps Pinky off list to nut out some strategies on mainstreaming 1-2-1 mid options and making our goals palatable out there. I know you and Pinky have contact with some big players and I have often thought we need to maximise ay exposure (not saying you dont just would like to natter about it a bit!). Kind regards Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] FYI news article
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] FYI news article Hi Louise I agree with you. What we need to do is capitalise on the PHI stuff though (esp now that insurance is on the horizon). There is still no choice in PHI and no reason to have PHI in rural areas. But in the advent of a private midwifery expansion this could change quickly. Midwives could be working privately providing women with care wherever they chose to birth. We could sell the reduced cost of the midwifery care with home help for the first 2 weeks (ie domestic home help). Heaps of ways to sell this to women. I would love to talk to you off list re rural issues as someone also in rural NSW, experiencing similar issues. Kind regards Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
[ozmidwifery] Vicki Chan/Nic Edmonstone in Newcastle - October 3
Title: Vicki Chan/Nic Edmonstone in Newcastle - October 3 Dear All Tuesday October 3rd. Vicki Chan and Nic Edmondstone are coming to Newcastle University NSW. Bookings Close NEXT TUESDAY (Sept 26) for more info contact Carol Chapman (02) 49428602 [EMAIL PROTECTED] NSW Maternity Coalition invites you to: KEEPING BIRTH SIMPLE ...whenever possible HONOURING WOMEN AND BABIES ...no matter what. WHEN MIDWIVES ARE STRONG, WOMEN CAN BE STRONG... AND WHEN WOMEN ARE STRONG, THEY CAN GIVE THEIR BEST FOR THEIR BABIES, AND FOR THEMSELVES. Join us in this spirited workshop and... * Expand positive attitudes towards, and confidence in, facilitating normal birth. * Identify issues within interpersonal relationships/ institutional policies and procedures/ and individual histories that can hamper or enhance the progress of labour. * Develop a practical tool-kit for assisting and supporting birthing women experiencing more challenging labour and birth. * Explore the role of the midwife in circumstances where the best birth is a medically assisted birth, particularly how we can welcome the advances of scientific medicine, which allow us to enhance the safety of mother and child at birth, without being anaesthetized to the miracle of life. Registration fee: $120 includes lunch, morning and afternoon tea. $90 Maternity Coalition members. Registration closes on Tuesday September 26th. Book Now, numbers are limited!!
Re: [ozmidwifery] Question on Notice to Tony Abbott re antenatal item issue and rural doctors
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Question on Notice to Tony Abbott re antenatal item issue and rural doctors Dear Barb, Melissa and all I too live in rural Aust and understand the issues esp that there are many good ENs out there. We have a local one who is doing the Bmid at UTS (hooray!). I guess the point is that if the opening up of Medicare Item number 16400 goes through then this will be able to happen. Essentially with Mr Abbotts approach there is no need for midwives to exist. I use the building analogy. It is like saying to an Electrician - Sorry we wont support you doing your trade, and by the way we will also enable Carpenters and Plumbers to do electrical work, after al they are all in the building industry!! These moves affect EVERY midwife, because they totally disregard midwifery expertise (despite many hard-fought wins of recent years to distingusih nursing from midwifery) This goes backwards from what we had before. Remember this will also enable GPs without a Dip Obs to provide antenatal care and essentially oversee a RN without midwifery. Naturally, if midwives were employed on a caseload basis even in small rural areas units could operate. Also managers would be better placed recruiting straight RNs for AE etc etc rather than the RN/RM issue. Get midwives as midwives and RNs as RNs. Not rocket science!! In solidarity Justine
[ozmidwifery] HB in Bundaberg
Title: HB in Bundaberg Dear All Does anyone know of a homebirth possibility in Bundaberg? Many Thanks Justine Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2337 Ph: (02) 65453612 0408 21 02 73 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
[ozmidwifery] FW: Contracting Advantage - Melbourne meeting re PI
Title: FW: Contracting Advantage - Melbourne meeting re PI Dear All Here is a very comprehensive update re the Melb Contracting Advantage meeting from Robyn Thompson. I agree with what others have said re ACMI membership. If midwives are not members of the College then they choose to look after themselves re professional issues. The College is only funded by its members and I really dont think non members can expect a service from them. JC Hi All It seems we are moving closer to the long awaited moment for equal recognition of our most important profession in terms of Health Professionals Indemnity Insurance. Most of us said it was to good to be true and remained a little skeptical. We so much look forward to the terrible legislative restriction to private practice in the Northern Territory being lifted and equal opportunity for all midwives around the nation to practice their professional skills in any midwifery setting with the certainty of Insurance. Please forward this information wide and far to other colleagues and interested people. We had a very fruitful meeting with Anne OConnor from Contracting Advantage (CAdv) [EMAIL PROTECTED] yesterday 5th Sept hosted by Western Hospital, Sunshine Campus, Melbourne. Special thanks to Sue Davis and Patrice Hickey for the meeting venue and arrangements, thanks to Barb Vernon for her continuing efforts with Insurance Industry and thanks to Joy for the prompt synopsis. Anne is willing to travel to your state or territory if you feel you need to meet with her, or you can email or talk to her by mobile 0416 728 886. Anne opened the meeting explaining the role of CAdv the Agency between contractors/midwives and the Insurance Brokers, Jardine, Lloyd, Thomas Perth, Western Australia. . Anne first became involved with her endeavour to obtain insurance for Midwives when she was discussing the insurance dilemma over dinner and a red wine with a dear midwife friend from New South Wales. Anne took the story to her boss; the idea has developed progressively from there. Anne couldnt understand why the government hadnt tried to solve the issue for the midwifery; the only profession nationally unable to obtain fair and equitable access to Professional Indemnity Insurance. Anne showed her passion for the cause, she is a good business woman committed to having Professional Indemnity and Public Liability available for midwives in the near future. Thanks to background research and continuing discussions with Barb Vernon, Anne informed us the plan has already progressed to the point where IT systems are currently being installed to provide this new back-end service for contracted midwives. With great diplomacy Anne answered a bombardment of questions posed by a very interested group of midwives from hospital, private practice and some providing midwifery services in combined settings. Anne stayed overnight at my place and answered more questions (over dinner and red wine) put to her by my self-employed husband, a Plumber. CAdv have the necessary financial requirement that most small groups and contractors cannot raise; a Premium Pool of $250,000 - $400,000 secured by law for 15 years, they are in a financial position to buy the Insurance at wholesale price. Contracting Advantage offers two operating systems 1. The ODCO System Agency services to hospitals and other establishments with permanent employees 2. Independent System Agency services on a user pays basis for self employed contractors The ODCO Pty Ltd System is the original contracting system set up for self-employed contractors. The system has been tested in courts several times and has been legitimized after Unions questioned the legality of the Agency. The ODCO system continues providing services for contractors, is audited and complies with the legal requirement of appropriate Licencing Boards. An example of the ODCO System working for a Private Midwifery Practice: If the company Melbourne Midwifery wanted to permanently employ full-time or part-time midwives the ODCO system would require, a 10% Administration fee; 5% paid by Melbourne Midwifery and 5% by each employed midwife. This system can be offered with cost savings to hospitals, universities and other organisations employing full or part-time midwives. A midwife who has both private clients and is employed by a hospital system must be clear in declaring their client contractual arrangements from the outset. The Independent System a user pay system provides individual access for midwives to Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance for any sphere of practice antenatal, labour and birth, postnatal, education (inside or outside hospital settings). The system is flexible it will meet the needs of midwives who have not yet set up a business and for those who have well established business facilities. Midwives pay a $500 per year up front fee for the Insurance Policy, there are no professional or other exclusions. The ACMI Codes and
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Dear Lisa and All I agree Lisa we need to dispel fear around HB but to do that it needs to be accessible. Your experience of BMid students attending HB is a 1 off. I dont believe any other BMid course enable students to work with IPMs doing HB. They also have trouble finding continuity models (and yes WC in Adelaide is again different!). But what I want to respond to is the idea that insurance is just for midwives. What about women? I have had 6 children at home and I have NO FEAR!!! 2 with insurance and 4 without. I understand the legal issues and I TAKE RESPONSIBILITY and would be very unlikely to sue, but this is not the point. I do however believe that HB women must have the same rights as those accessing GPs and Obs. Insurance is seen as a consumer safety mechanism just as it is seen as a professional protection for midwives. This policy to me is very worthwhile as it allows for coverage on a per birth basis. It will enable many more midwives wanting to dip their toe in to private practice that chance. It has the capacity to transform maternity services. We can use the flexibility of this policy (and the business arrangements they offer) to recruit midwives who are currently reluctant to step outside of the system. Private midwifery could actually be a mainstream option with women choosing where they give birth. With PI ,midwives could be granted admitting rights and could therefore offer the marketplace a service in the home or hospital. I have spent 6.5 years advocating for women and midwives and 5 fighting for PI insurance. I can safely say that politically midwives will get nowhere without PI. With 200 midwives we can sell 1-2-1 midwifery further than HB (although HB is my passion!!). Yesterday Manchester Unity refused to pay for a homebirth (even though they offer midwifery rebates) citing a lack of PI as the reason. HBA are also reconsidering and MBF has ceased paying out for HBs for the same reason. I have never had private health insurance and never will, but this is not about the few, again this is about reaching many more women. Private Health is well supported by the Fed Gov and it is a way to reach many more women. Fear can not be easily dispelled by something that is so poorly supported (ie by public or private funding). With an influx of private midwifery there is a much better chance that Medicare will flow on to midwives in their own right (rather than the current idea re Medicare item number 16400 that requires Drs overseeing midwives). Lisa you cannot liken the UK to here. Although I think team midwifery for homebirth is the pits, women in the UK have a legislative right to a public funded homebirth, even saying that in Australia would be considered reasonably outrageous. Unlike the UK, Independent midwifery is the only option for the vast majority of Aust women wanting a HB. Barb Vernon is one very busy person who is pushed and pulled in many directions but like us she is working hard to achieve this. She is recording every e-mail etc received in the hope we get to 200 soon. I hope you appreciate the benefits of this policy in both per birth coverage and business structure; and whilst I acknowledge some IPMs with established practices may have preferred that this was not a requirement I hope that they too can think with a world view as we consumers are. In solidarity Justine Caines Homebirth Australia Maternity Coalition For the homebirth movement to move forward here we need to dispel the fear that women have surrounding birth, no amount of insurance can do that. I don't think that because they are the only company offering insurance at the moment that is the main consideration at all. Would you buy rotten fruit if it was all that was on offer ( not comparing rotten fruit with the offer at all you understand). At the uni of SA student's can attend homebirths in fact I had a birth this week with a student attending. How is it that they are able to and others eg in South Aus Flinders Uni can't. Maybe it has more to do with politics of birth than insurance. I am doing my best along with other independent's in this state to raise the profile of birth, insurance is not the only way to do this. I do get fed up when on the odd occasion I have been with a woman birthing at the hospital at the attitude of some (by no means all) but catching the baby isn't the be all and end all of my job. Getting the woman the birth she desires is way more important and if that means advocating from the side line I swallow my pride and get on with it. All that said I would love as much as everyone else to have insurance as a rod to help me. But it has to be right and open discussion is really important even before we blindly sign up to anything. Thanks for your input Lisa
Re: [ozmidwifery] I need to clarify myself!! Coles Baby
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] I need to clarify myself!! Coles Baby Hi Kelly, If I have answered this already please ignore. I was the editor of Coles Baby magazine for 4 years, from its beginning. I would not blame the journalist's hearing. It is far more likely that the copy was edited to doctor from doula as the magazine content is closely monitored by the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne and very much toes the orthodox line - the idea of a doula and no doctor being present is unlikely to be acceptable. Best wishes, Carol Fallows Hi Carol and Kelly How disgusting. How dare they change what Kelly said to fit their prejudice. There are virtually no Drs who do HB so it doesnt even make sense. No wonder women only get the choice sanctioned by those who specialise in medical misery. Kelly said Midwife and doula so whats wrong with that?? Enkin et al clearly say That even when they are available Obs should not be caring for healthy women. Yes I know EBM is not something many medicos in the system regard too highly but unless we keep shouting it they will continue to practice obstetrics like cosmetic suregery. In fact I think Obs is worse as you usually look a bit better (despite the risk of surgery). With unecessary surgery you are fooled that you will be better, but guess who has a morphine drip! Not the natural birther!! This really makes me mad. Kelly. I have been providing written quotes to journos for some time and I always ask the journo to forward my quotes to me before publication. In this case it does not change the editor intervention. I would call the journo and ask for a contact for the editor responsible. Editing off for length etc is one thing, but totally changing what you said esp as it tells readers that Drs do HB is misleading. If they were so compelled to promote obstetrics they could have made an Editors note at the end of the article. JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: info required
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: info required Hi Amanda and all Your Mum beats me I have only had six without a V.E (incl twins!!) But I am currently childbearing and I guess things have got so much worse in the last 20 or so years. When I was quizzed about my obstetric history (please!) by a GP. He commented that I was fortunate. And yes my reply was true to form. Absolutely fortunate I said to have an independent midwife for each pregnancy! JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Private Health Funds
Dear Jennifairy Please if possible get your Mum to write a quick letter to the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman outlining her concerns and previous treatment. Also if $1500 is not the full amount repaid (which I assume it isn't) then also why does the fund discriminate against wellness re maternity when it promotes it in other areas. If we know he is receiving letters we can then lobby him JC -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] griffith
Dear Andrea So glad to hear of your support. What a huge effort. Griffith and Wagga have nothing (that I know of). There is no MC activity and despite some good midwives no-one willing to stand up for women :-( Andrea if you come across some willing women, please let us know, I would be happy to support an MC group establishing of both women and midwives. JC Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Breastfeeding
Dear Gail Have you read any of Michel Odents work re oxytocin? The Scientification of Love is an entire book on this wonderful hormone. Also see Sarah Buckley's work. It is really only HB women (and not all I know but most) who experience physiological 3rd stage (yes I know a few discrete mid programs) But you could say 99% of Australian women have a managed 3rd stage. With this logic and the info re bonding etc and oxytocin. 99% of Australian women are robbed of this euphoria. This is not to say that they won't bond with their babies but that stunning love hormone that I call a drug is destroyed by it's sinister synthetic sister synto. The first feed has lost it's magic touch. Now this is all icing on the cake because I haven't even touched on the drugged out Mum and babe and the interventions etc. This is all in the privacy of the birth room (well they aren't really that private are they!) and before any of what Kelly commented on comes into play. Society cultural norms etc. What about our hopeless fragmented system with zero continuity. I was shocked when I had the twins. Health professionals who know I have HB'd 4 children and breastfed them all past 12 months said Oh you will comp Do you think you'll have enough milk blah blah Yes this was for twins, but I had a pretty good track record. But the sage advice came from one of Australia's most loving independent midwives. Jan Robinson said. Don't complement babies. Complement you. You must make that beautiful milk and treat your body right and you will. 8 months on we are still feeding beautifully. Despite the early days of 40 degrees day in day out and 4 other kids aged 6 and under. So Gail it comes from that innate wisdom of knowing that women can. How many health professionals really believe that and practice accordingly? JC -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Roadside births?
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Roadside births? Dear Mary and All This is certainly happening all over Australia. Whilst I have not delved into the conception timetables of rural mums. I know countless stories of women scheduling induction or my personal favourite of elec c/s at the city private hosp. Amongst graziers in our district this is seen as the first class option. Hubby can be there for the birth. Go back check the cows and pick up Mum on Day 5 or 6. We too have had recent roadside births. The Mums wont talk for fear of being ostracised so guess what, the medicos continue to prevent any service that they dont sanction from operating in a rural community. It will take a few more deaths I think (very sadly). JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Midwife in Inverell
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Midwife in Inverell Janet will e-mail you off list Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2337 Ph: (02) 65453612 0408 21 02 73 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
[ozmidwifery] Homebirth in Kingaroy??
Title: Homebirth in Kingaroy?? Dear All Have a request for a HB in Kingaroy. Anyone know of a midwife closeish? JC Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2337 Ph: (02) 65453612 0408 21 02 73 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
Re: [ozmidwifery] ] FW: Birthcentre/ homebirth
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] ] FW: Birthcentre/ homebirth We make our own reality, so prepare for this birth by using techniques which calm the mind and tone the body. Employ a midwife you trust and then get on with it. All the best, MM Dear Mary I am putting in an order for 5000 clones of you right now!!! We certainly do make our own reality. Looking forward to seeing you in Geelong, you are a very special woman. JC
[ozmidwifery] Balancing work and family New Idea article and website for feedback
Title: Balancing work and family New Idea article and website for feedback Dear All New Idea is asking women to let our abour women pollies know what we want. How about giving them a blast with 1-2-1 midwifery care. http://www.newidea.com.au/display.cfm?objectid=5D0C151E-82F9-4F30-B7EA286E2F0D01B4 http://www.newidea.com.au/display.cfm?objectid=5D0C151E-82F9-4F30-B7EA286E2F0D01B4 JC Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] ctg stuff
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] ctg stuff Dear Sue and all What an amazing thread!! Choice is the key. The choices that are respected and funded are those that prop up the medical monopoly of the big business of birth. So all you wonderful midwives out there, start/keep saying it. There are no rules or protocols for women, there is evidence and advice and a duty of care for midwives but at the end of the day a woman must be making the decision. It is not until we have a full complement of choice from homebirth to elec c/s can we say that women are really making a choice. Now it is choice within a vacuum of medical dominance. I heard an interesting thing re ADHD on the radio the other day. The researcher said if we only ask Drs we will only ever get a medical response. Nothing new but nicely put. By continuing to defer to medicos when the majority of us have no medical condition we will never make lasting change. I believe some midwifery stars were recently at a conference espousing the benefits of managed 3rd stage and justified by saying physiological could only ever be considered when things were totally natural so there was no real point etc. Whilst I understand the pragmatics of that comment and the reality of the current system. I find this a real sell-out and on par with the CTG argument and many others. Just because something is the majority does not mean it is right. Sometimes all the fools are simply on the same side, rich and very powerful ones I know. Recently I was told midwives greeted my news of twins at home with reasonable upset saying it was one thing to do it but I should have done it quietly!! Oh dear. It would have been so much nicer to have prem babies with respiratory distress (saved by Obstetrics) or a vaginal birth in lithotomy with a forceps for twin 2. Lets get real. Innocent until proven guilty and Healthy until proven sick!! They key to change is in the unity. If enough midwives and women said No more it would change very quickly. When we disagree and are challenged lets ask ourselves where the womans rights are in our anger, upset et etc and lets continue to shout it loudly to Obs cause they have no argument. JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Introducing solids too early
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Introducing solids too early Dear Carol and all Very interesting re the global perspective. What we have now though is a gigantic industry both the formula and baby food industry. In informing women of the facts we but up against huge vested interests. I have been mulling over a book idea but keep coming back to the thought of how it would sell when it would critical analyse the benefits of much of the commercial baby flap/trap. What do you think Carol?? Only last night I checked labels again and the first food products say 4-6 months. This is despite the WHO code, Does NHMRC also have one?? I cant remember Doesnt matter that most babies cant sit up then!! When I worked for a pollie a few yrs back we successfully made Heinz re label rice cereal but I guess we only held them to that produce so without any diligent monitoring the sell sell approach remains unfettered. Re the formula industry I red a fascinating article that put all the arguments we know very succinctly. It is from a UK journal called Ecologist http://www.exacteditions.com/exact/browse/307/308/1267/3/22/0/ Well worth a look Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] Keillands Deliveries
Dear Liz So nice to hear your honesty. But what are you learning? None of this is about what women can do or supporting them to achieve the best outcome, it is about protecting a system and it's regular inhabitants. It is production-line birth. Why not ask an independent midwife if you could get to know a woman and provide some support and see what birth can be? I really despair that newer midwives are forced into such a system (even most Bmidders!). It must be really hard to keep the faith or believe in fact that it can be different. I guess this is what you get when women share their most intimate moments with strangers. Justine Caines Consumer Mum to 6 home born beauties Ruby 6, Clancy 5, Will 3, Tobias 2 And twins Majella and Rosie nearly 6 months -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: E-News 8:11 - Postdates Pregnancies (May 24, 2006)
Beautifully put Penny! Yes where are we when the most important physical and spiritual event is taken away from /handed over by women? I laugh when I hear that Feminism has achieved so much. To me the very essence of womanhood is controlled by at best a very organised patriarchy and at worst totally controlling mysogyny. There's a book in that, but how to make it palatable for women to read!! Ah perhaps that's the 64 million dollar question. I also pondered today if it's all about choice then why is the natural choice denigrated so much (yes due to the controlling interest I know!) But publicly we need to ask that question and KEEP informing anyone we can that until all choice is respected and funded then we cannot say women have choice or determine that women are really making a choice! JC -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Hep B, vit K
Dear Mary and Amanda Exactly Mary! Amanda have you read Sara Wickham's work on Vit K? What is the consent process for Hep B, Are parents aware of the specific populations of risk? I must say the Hep B at birth really shocks me. What are the risk factors for babies who are not in contact with those in high risk groups such as those already infected or sex workers and intravenous drug users? It seems like a capture theory to me and I worry about the level of informed consent. JC -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] fertility problems
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] fertility problems I agree. Why even look at IVF in the first place. Sort of like going to an Ob for a normal pregnancy! The Jocelyn Clinic in Paddington (Sydney) is run by Franchesca Naish (has a book called Natural Fertility) She has had some great success (even with IVF didasters) I have recently referred a friend there who is happy with their approach etc. Worth a look into The Jocelyn Centre for Natural Fertility Management Holistic Medicine 46 Grosvenor St, Woollahra ph: (02) 9369 2047 JC
[ozmidwifery] Midwifery Strengths
Title: Midwifery Strengths Dear Renee I will give a strength from the consumer perspective! The power of the relationship between a woman and a midwife. When it works there is nothing a woman cannot do. The impact of that trust and that belief in being with woman has the capacity to transform lives. Read Andrew Bissits afterward in Having a Great Birth in Australia He comments on the trust and the relationship women have with midwives providing 1-2-1 care. Something the vast majority of other carers (and midwives in fragmented models) cannot achieve. Gee I wish I was writing this essay (shame I dont want to be a MW!) I would approach the core of strength from the perspective of when midwives actually do as the word means be with woman So to be with her one should know her, and put her as central to the process. To do this she comes first and Hospital protocols after and Drs timeframes after etc. I guess the real strength is when practice is optimal. Kind regards Justine Caines Hi all. I am a 1st year B.Mid student writing the obligatory essay on Midwifery in Australia. No easy feat really and I need to outline some strengths and weaknesses. Well there is plenty out there about what is wrong with Midwifery Services and what the threats are (New Idea anyone?) but not a lot talking about what is right with it, besides the inherent fact that it works!! So I thought I'd do a little bit of a survey and ask you all what you think are the strengths. What do you all see as being great about being a Midwife in Australia?? Your feedback would be most appreciated. Renee
Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Centres in West NSW?
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Centres in West NSW? There is a Birth Centre at Blacktown and at Auburn Also one at Bankstown Bankstown Hospital is an un-sung hero Have a look at the NSW Mothers and Babies Report. Bankstown has a 4% epidural rate (Go beat that!) They have some wonderful midwives and lovely water births. Jan Robinson had a client who birthed twins in water there!! (Must say Im impressed) Why not employ an IPM and Birth at the Birth Centre?? This would ensure continuity but enable the location the woman is comfortable in. E-mail off list for some contacts. JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Sexual Assault
Good work Kelly A mammoth effort for both you and the woman, and yes her surviving goes on. Just think of the 1 in 4 woman who have experienced some form of assault/abuse. I soldier on knowing that 1-2-1 midwifery care would make such a huge difference to these women, as it did me. I must speak to Liz Mullinar again and see if we can crank some awareness up on this one. I hope this Mum settles well into new mothering. Catch some JC xx -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] yep send on your caseload refs please
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] yep send on your caseload refs please Hi Debbie It may be useful to think about women having choice and that 1-2-1 care is recognised as best practice so perhaps what suits Orange should be of lesser concern! Sorry but I am a little over what suits practitioners and organisations. Women deserve to share their most intimate moment with someone they know and hopefully trust. And we simply cannot gauge what suits women until we offer a full compliment of CHOICE. In solidarity Justine Caines PS: The National Maternity Action Plan available on the Maternity Coalition Website should be useful www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] de midwife course in wa
Change! Yes they will Tania and If I'm still alive I would love to be an industrial officer in the Australian Midwives Union (as that is my background!!) I agree wholeheartedly with what you say JC xx -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Sexual Assault
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Sexual Assault Dear Kelly I am happy to talk with you off list as a survivor of sexual assault, with a fantastic birthing experience (number 1) that would have resulted in me being committed to an asylum if I was in the system. This woman would have the very best chance at home but most probably will not choose that path. I would suggest some continuity of midwifery care. Whilst doula support is important it is pretty much critical that she has clinical support from a known carer with some authority (if birthing in the system). ASCA (Advocates for Survivors of Child Abuse) and Liz Mullinars healing retreat Mayumarri would also be able to provide some good support. Liz is a survivor of childhood abuse (former casting agent) who sold everything to set up ASCA and the healing retreat. She spoke at the 2003 Homebirth Australia conference and was very well received. See www.asca.org.au I am unsure where she is at in her healing journey. I know that one can feel healed and yet the sensation of birth can bring one very much undone. I cannot emphasise how important it is to have some clinical support and a trusted carer, because at the end of the day a doula cant challenge (with any authority) the protocols and the clock restrictions and the whole production line that is our current maternity system. I have been saddened to hear that generally there is little understanding amongst midwives of the needs of survivors of sexual assault. The inflexibility of the system perse and the clock (for the women who take a very long time to birth as it generally is very fast or very slow) is a major impediment. Another consideration is the privacy of water. So is where she going supportive of deep water immersion for labour and birth?? Hope this helps Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] seeking natural active birth classes in the Newcastle area?
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] seeking natural active birth classes in the Newcastle area? Hi Julie Talk with Carol Chapman [EMAIL PROTECTED] 49428602 Kind Regards Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] Traditional birth practices
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Traditional birth practices Hi Emily I have been wondering for a while do they have any consumer input at Newc Uni when teaching Obstetrics? I am thinking actually hearing from a woman about her experiences et etc. Not the interaction with current pregnant women. As I remember the Newc Uni course is a bit different (is it still called Community Medicine?) Just thought it would be good for students to understand the enormity of the experience and perhaps to see a video of a birth under a womans own steam! We have some great advocates in Newcastle so it would be possible... Kind regards Justine
[ozmidwifery] VBAC after 'tummy tuck'
Title: VBAC after 'tummy tuck' Dear Wise Women In have a tragic message from a woman wanting a VBA2C also has had a tummy tuck. So sad as she is one of the many who had a total number done on her. But she recognises that so thats positive. Any ideas re the tummy tuck. Knowing nothing I would think the tummy tuck bit would not interact with the c/s scar? Please advise! Many Thanks Justine
[ozmidwifery] Homebirth Australia Conference July 1-2 2006, Geelong Victoria
Title: Homebirth Australia Conference July 1-2 2006, Geelong Victoria Dear Supporters of Choice in Childbirth Just a quick message to let you know that the registration form is now downloadable for the 24th Homebirth Australia Conference from the HBA Website. All speakers are confirmed and it may be cool outside but it is guaranteed to be one HOT conference!! http://www.homebirthaustralia.org/conference.html In solidarity Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 625 SCONE NSW 2337 Ph: (02) 65453612 0408 21 02 73 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
Re: [ozmidwifery] proposals
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] proposals Why team? Team models have not provided women with much better care (esp the larger ones). Why not a group practice of 3? Allows for a high level of continuity and also good midwifery support for on-call etc. As a consumer advocate its so hard to continue to push for 1-2-1 and at the same time keep hearing team stuff. JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Attendant / Doula - Hunter Valley Area
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Attendant / Doula - Hunter Valley Area Kelly is she in contact with the local birth support group? It's pretty busy. No shes quite mainstream and only knows about birth attendants from what I have on my site since my good friend and site admin had her VBAC this weekend I think this has gotten her thinking about it more seriously as shes in her second trimester now so she is at the stages of asking stacks of those questions you always get will they take over from the husband, will I cope with a stranger etc so will take someone gentle to gain her confidence (personality wise and give her confidence in her body too) with a mainstream understanding. Shes a gorgeous person though, has been very supportive of my site for a long time. I am sure you didnt mean it Kelly but what does the above say? That women wanting/supporting gentle, natural birth are weirdos and that c/s and all the trauma associated with it (in many cases - esp the unnecessary ones) is mainstream and a less confronting option!?? What I understand about the mainstream is it is on the whole a very damaged and broken system. Whilst a woman must decide what is right and safe for her, any other reading of the current system is misleading. I know that some of us are considered pretty radical for our upfront choices and unwavering support of women to choose where and with whom they give birth. Those of us that choose the path less travelled often pay for it with our families, friends and acquaintances. It is really tiring to be labelled a freak. Although I have 6 delicious birth experiences that quickly remind me of the reality. I must say this pervading culture of women who would spend more time researching buying an electrical product than they would bringing another life into the world is really wearing. Women are constantly conned and often not supported, we all know that. While we work to change this I think we also need to bring the responsibility back to women, and in doing that more women need to at least be aware of women like me that work their but off (well it would be nice if I lost my but in the process!!) to enable a choice for them when the light bulb finally switches on... I salute you for what you are doing. But you are in a position to help the light switch on, give women the information, let them know groups like Maternity Coalition exist, you may be surprised with womens uptake toward the non-mainstream!!! In solidarity Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Attendant / Doula - Hunter Valley Area
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Birth Attendant / Doula - Hunter Valley Area Dear Kelly I live in the Hunter Valley and could assist with contacts but the Hunter Valley is way too broad is it Upper or lower? It spans 150 kms!! E-mail me off list with town location if you like Justine Caines National Policy Co-ordinator Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 105 MERRIWA NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
Re: [ozmidwifery] Letter to Miranda
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Letter to Miranda Dear Di and All Excellent letter Di It might be an idea to send letters to the Sun Herald as this is the publication it appeared. [EMAIL PROTECTED] Also for those with more energy theres a Reader link Phone Ph 9282 1569 Fax 92823253 Flood them and we may get a right of reply! In solidarity Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] GP attending hb in Sydney?
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] GP attending hb in Sydney? Oh Dear Emily be sure to keep the faith!!! JC xx
Re: [ozmidwifery] GP attending hb in Sydney?
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] GP attending hb in Sydney? No Janet As far as I know there is not 1 homebirth GP in Sydney. In fact I only know of 1 or 2 in the whole of NSW JC Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 105 Merriwa NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65453612 0408 21 02 73 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
Re: [ozmidwifery] placental gardening
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] placental gardening Dear All I can vouch for the following plants Camellia in a pot (very happy) 1st babe 6.5 years ago Grevillea (grew like bloody wildfire) nearly 5 years old David Austin old world Rose Only a bit sad due to drought and a forgotten area of the yard - um ma! (3 years old) Now what to plant for the twins? Yes HUGE placenta. I have a huge garden but virtually no space. I am thinking of something with a double flower (yes I like matching and all that cutesy meaning stuff!!), suggestions?? I planted the plant and placenta at the same time but the Camellia was originally in the ground. I gave the placenta a fair bit of space below the root ball of the plant. I am a keen gardener (yet dont know too much) and I would think as a rule anything that likes blood and bone should do fine. A native (like a Grevillea) should be an exception. I think Marys advice re staged planting is very sound. Perhaps ask what plants like rich soil and blood and bone type additions. Justine 6 HB babes all with/to have planted placentas (and I said placenta planting was hippy when first introduced to HB rituals, Ah how we eat our words!)
Re: [ozmidwifery] placental gardening
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] placental gardening Ooh Yes, Tania, how nice different fruit from the same tree! Just lovely. Sold! JC xx
Re: [ozmidwifery] article FYI
Just for clarification. This FDA warning is for the new 4D color ultrasounds. There is no problem with having an ordinary ultrasound and getting a print. The warning is because they are new and basically they don't know if they are as safe as the traditional scan. Yes But who knows if traditional ultrasound is safe anyway. There have been no studies to prove safety. We also have no idea of emissions from machine to machine because they are not regulated. Why no studies? Well no commercial interest. I suspect this outburst is more about Drs loosing control to non-medicos cashing in on the 'entertainment ultrasound'. Bring the rellies and the popcorn... I weep for the future JC -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] IV Synto for 3rd stage
hi kylie re whats been chatting on about you probably were at the same hospital. large teritary. but if it is hospital protocol and you are found not to be doing the protocol then it is your job which would you prefer. Regards Gee What about some lateral thinking! How about informing women about evidence and appropriate care, and giving them a choice!!! Slow in-roads to change but a least a chance of it when midwives work with women to inform and support them rather than with obstetric dominance that dictates and abuses JC -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Tearing after using Epi-No?
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Tearing after using Epi-No? Oh Dear Dont worry from tearing from an insane gadget sold by the Obs that is really unnecessary if a woman works with her body and births actively. I guess though that with a private Ob she has the worst chance of birthing actively and naturally, using water etc Why dont simple things like being upright convince women. Far better to put faith in a rubber gadget esp when its making someone money. I would think that if this thing can be pushed that far it is quite dangerous. The Obs response that its Ok and it can happen in labour is pretty telling as well. We all know that midwifery care esp 1-2-1 and intact perineum's walk hand in hand and scissor wounds are the trademark of Obs. Sorry that thing really offends me. JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] On behalf of Rochelle . Perth
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] On behalf of Rochelle . Perth Dear Rochelle Kellys info is up to date. Forget Medibank Private, they are hopeless as you no doubt know. As an existing fund member waiting periods do not apply if you switch funds. But naturally confirm this. Grand United is the fund we are recommending. You should write to Medibank Priv and complain re the total lack of competition re provider. Please also take the time to complain to the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman. (Dont accept the lack of insurance as a reason against midwifery coverage, the Ombudsman should be putting a case to Gov for support to make PHI affordable and accessible to all. His details are Mr John Powlay and this is from their site www.phio.org.au You can raise a complaint with us by phone, email, fax or letter. Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Private Health Insurance Ombudsman Level 7, 362 Kent Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Complaints Hotline:1800 640 695 Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 105 Merriwa NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65482248 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
[ozmidwifery] Medicare Rebate for Antenatal Care in rural and Remote Australia
Title: Medicare Rebate for Antenatal Care in rural and Remote Australia Dear All Pasted below is a media release from Minister Abbott (released today) To my mind this is a very backward step that can enable RNs without midwifery training to provide antenatal care. It is also fundamentally flawed as it requires a Dr to oversee care. If a GP is required to be a proceduralist Ob then there will be no new services and rural women will remain in the same dire state they are in If the GP is not required to be a GP/Ob then this is VERY dangerous. Also the use of RN's who do not have midwifery training is again dangerous and totally undermining of midwifery. Using a midwife to do an antenatal check under a GP or Ob gives Drs a perfect avenue to continue to control whilst utilising midwifery in a totally inappropriate way and maximising the handmaiden role. The Minister's office and Fed DOH have done this with no consultation with the College. I think we need to be positive of the recognition of rural maternity services being in crisis but be very clear that the Minister's initial approach is full of holes and make it clear that rural women/midwives have provided the solution to the Minister and he has not listened. I suggest that we all respond to our local media highlighting that this measure is unworkable. Wheres the choice for the woman, why not the midwife throughout? So get on to talkback radio and drum this up as an issue, because thats the only way well make change JC Xx (just got the twins to sleep ahhh!!) MEDIA RELEASE Minister for Health and Ageing Tony Abbott MHR 9 January 2006 NEW MEDICARE ITEM FOR NURSES TO PROVIDE ANTENATAL CHECKS IN RURAL AREAS The Commonwealth Government today announced that it will introduce a new Medicare item to fund antenatal checks by nurses, midwives and registered Aboriginal Health Workers in rural and remote Australia. This will mean that qualified nurses, midwives and registered Aboriginal Health Workers will be able to deliver services rebated through Medicare when providing antenatal checks to pregnant women on behalf of a GP or specialist. The government is determined to make the best use of the existing medical workforce to provide people in rural areas with better health care services. Most rural and remote health services rely on a variety of primary health care staff in the delivery of maternal health care. Establishing a new Medicare item for rural nurses, midwives and Aboriginal Health Workers is recognition of the care they provide and a further sign of the governments commitment to making the best possible use of the rural health workforce. Details of the new Medicare item will be developed in consultation with members of the profession and will be introduced within the next six months. It is expected that the rebate will be about $18 and that this measure will cost about to $5 million a year. Media contact: Kate Miranda, Office of Tony Abbott, 0417 425 227
Re: [ozmidwifery] Interesting article about rogue expert witnesses
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Interesting article about rogue expert witnesses The research found that some cases of cerebral palsy could be caused by a virus shortly before or after birth. Traditionally, oxygen starvation during birth was thought to be the main culprit. I have been saying this for years and didnt the Drs shout me down!! OK so now thats the cerebral palsy stuff is biting them, its not their fault!! Considering it is rarely caused as a direct result of birth then lets stop all the routine CTGs, cause we know the only thing they do is increase the c/s rate. So whos game enough to start using their own words against them in the interests of women?? JC
[ozmidwifery] FW: [ozbirthing] Fwd: Community Cabinet Heads to Bundaberg - Qld. Media statement
Title: FW: [ozbirthing] Fwd: Community Cabinet Heads to Bundaberg - Qld. Media statement Forwarding this in case any midwives or women in or around Bundaberg QLD JC Hi all Do you, or do you know anyone who lives around Bundaberg? The Queensland State Government Cabinet is visiting Bundy next month as part of its community cabinet program (please read the media release below my message). It's always a great opportunity to remind the Premier, Health Min and other cabinet members that women and families all over QLD are concerned about our maternity services. The last one was held in the Torres Strait and a group of women talked to the Health Min about care up there. So would be great if we could get one or two (or more) to go to this one. If you want the low-down on how these things run, please feel free to email me at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Many thanks, Jo --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Community Cabinet Heads to Bundaberg - Qld. Media statement Date: Tue, 3 Jan 2006 14:44:24 +1000 (EST) Premier Treasurer, Peter Beattie 01/01/06 Community Cabinet Heads to Bundaberg State Cabinet will head to Bundaberg next month for the first Community Cabinet meeting of 2006, Premier Peter Beattie announced today. Mr Beattie said the meeting on the 19th and 20th of February would be the 90th since his Government was elected in 1998. Our Government has a big job ahead of us in 2006, Mr Beattie said. Our economy is strong, we have the best budget bottom line in the country, the lowest unemployment rate in thirty years and are providing more funding for infrastructure such as schools, roads, ports, railways and hospitals than any other Government in the history of Queensland. However, there is still a lot of hard work that needs to be done. We have started building a better public health system and we need to continue to plan for new services and infrastructure that will help meet the challenges associated with our staggering population growth in Queensland. Our focus is getting on with the job and making sure we get the basics right. Community Cabinets are a vital part of this process. They present a unique opportunity for members of my Cabinet to listen and respond to the local issues and concerns of the community. Member for Bundaberg Nita Cunningham said she was delighted that her Cabinet colleagues would soon be coming to Bundaberg. She said the two-day gathering will offer people the chance to meet the Premier, Ministers and Directors-General, but it will also allow the region to highlight its successes. It is a great chance for us to have our say and I thank the Premier and Ministers for choosing one of the most vibrant and growing regions in the State to host the first Community Cabinet meeting for 2006, Mrs Cunningham said. Media inquiries: (07) 3224 4500 == To unsubscribe from the Media Statements mailing list, or change the portfolios to which you are subscribed, please go to the 'subscribe' page at http://statements.cabinet.qld.gov.au/subscribe.html Enter the email address you used to subscribe in the text box and click on the link that allows you to check your subscription details. The address with which you are subscribed is '[EMAIL PROTECTED]'. Please ensure that you use the email address exactly as it appears, especially in relation to upper and lower case characters. __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com Yahoo! Groups Links To visit your group on the web, go to: http://au.groups.yahoo.com/group/ozbirthing/ To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service http://au.docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ . -- End of Forwarded Message
[ozmidwifery] Private Health Insurance and Midwifery
Title: Private Health Insurance and Midwifery Dear Sue and all I sent this message earlier today and have not received it myself, so am resending. JC Dear wonderful midwives and women HAPPY NEW YEAR! In order to make 2006 the year of the midwife I think we need to take every opportunity. Please Call talk back radio and write letters to your local papers wherever you are re the following. Please forward to anyone you know who is willing to write/call. A few days ago it was announced that the private health insurance (PHI) industry will put a submission to Government to again increase their fees. This will make it around 5 price hikes in as many years. If enough people respond publicly considering this issue has been recently raised it should be quite effective. So what was the industry saying That the price hike is simply to cover costs (and that the industry is trying its best!!) The Ministers Office made same lame comment about looking at the submission but not just granting an increase for nothing! (Id say they will!!) But what never comes out in the media is that there are HUGE cost savings if the Gov was to assist PHI not to be TOTALLY anti-competitive. Points to make (which I know you already know!!) *There are more babies born each year than any other health procedure. *In private health insurance there is absolutely no competition, it is totally medically dominated. *It is also an area that is crippling health funds (so much so that smaller funds actually tell you which Obstetrician you can see as they can only afford some). *Some funds are looking at providing a midwifery benefit (as they recognise the huge cost saving) but where is the Government support?? Still no assistance with insurance. With insurance all funds could offer choice (that would also double as a HUGE cost saver). Importantly it would also make PHI a viable option for rural consumers (currently as most rural areas do not have private Obs or even Obs there is no point joining up). This shows what a giant waste of money PHI is in its current form. If you are a private health insurance member please consider a quick complaint to the Private Health Insurance Obudsman. His details are Mr John Powlay and this is from their site www.phio.org.au You can raise a complaint with us by phone, email, fax or letter. Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Private Health Insurance Ombudsman Level 7, 362 Kent Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Complaints Hotline:1800 640 695 Telephone: (02) 8235 8777 Facsimile: (02) 8235 8778 In solidarity Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] Let baby decide birth date
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Let baby decide birth date Dear Julie and All I love it. I also saw a piece from a vet many moons ago on the huge dangers of interfering with the physiological birthing processes For Mares, with them citing that owners should stay well away leaving the Mare to do what they need to. What a shame I should have incorporated this into a recent story I did on my twin home water birth, because I live in Australias horse capital, Scone!!! JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Private Health Midwifery
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Private Health Midwifery Dear Kelly and all Grand United recently launched a far more generous midwifery package. They cover up to $2000 for private midwifery incl HB. JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] question - lodging complaints
Hi Jo and All The disclaimer from what you have said was to indemnify the Ob from responsibility of a stuff up and it was as a response to refusal to c/s with that logic he has acted totally against the parents wishes by performing that episiotomy. I think having signed that form they have more to argue, ie they were making the decisions and taking responsibility. They made it clear what their wishes were, the husband asked him to stop and he did not. I believe he has a case to answer re the evidence of 'cranial haemorrhage' etc etc and what benefit was achieved through such an assault. It may be worthwhile contacting Andrew Bissets at John Hunter Hospital re some facts (from an Ob) re vaginal breech as he has assisted over 400, he may have some ammo re the epis. Let me know if you want his e-mail. I agree with Andrea evey couple up to making a complaint should be supported to. The former HCC Commissioner in NSW agreed with what we said about the broken maternity system and yet said what can I do with 13 complaints for 86,000 births! She had a point. JC xxx -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] ideas needed pronto!
Hi Jenny Well MC is and probably never will be funded!! And most of the costs of advocacy are borne by individual consumers as MC does not have enough $$$ to reimburse . So I would say MC could do with half a dozen if that was possible. Kind regards Justine -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Family First
Dear Leanne On our last Canberra roadshow we briefed Sen Fielding (In September) so this is really a good opportunity to show him that what we (Maternity Coalition) have said is backed up by others in the community. From our experience with Julia Gillard it is good for those who belong to MC to identify this and show their support. For those non-members, please JOIN, support our work, because together we can get there! Leanne good work organising this and will send the briefing through to you so you know what we said. In solidarity Justine -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
[ozmidwifery] Homebirth in Maryborough
Title: Homebirth in Maryborough Dear All Does anyone know of a homebirth practitioner in or around Maryborough QLD? Many Thanks Justine Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 105 Merriwa NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65482248 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
Re: [ozmidwifery] The Advertiser today...
Dear All Sage words Tania. May seem corny, but I always come back to the fact that midwife means 'with woman' so if as a midwife you are 'with' hospital policies or 'with' pandering to Dr and non-evidence based protocols then where is the woman? Being 'with woman' is not utopia, it is appropriate practice and the right of every woman. As someone very interested in politics I liken this scenario to a politician that is hamstrung by their parties policies and so really cannot say he/she will represent the needs of their constituents, because at the end of the day they will only do it if it conforms to party policy! Perhaps more midwives need to do a Barnaby Joyce and cross the floor voting against the party for things they feel are important!!! I will never be a midwife but as an active consumer I know all about putting it all on the line. Women will lead the change but we also need brave midwives prepared to back women. JC -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Re: twins birth story
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Re: twins birth story Dear Yvette Your little ones look beautiful. Oh to have 2 girls! I am sorry you had all that intervention. I truly hope to avoid all of that in the next few weeks. I may need to chat to you for post-natal coping skills!! Kind regards Justine 34 weeks (twins no idea what, but I bet theres one boy!!)
Re: [ozmidwifery] Scottish dads push wives toward C-sections? I don't think so
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Scottish dads push wives toward C-sections? I don't think so I just wish we had their C/S rate!! Ours is about 5 times that lately. The other week I counted 18 out of 30 women on one ward had had the chop - there were also a few antenates, believe it or not! We're a major tertiary hospital, I know, but they weren't all fulminating P.E.T's, or grade 34 plac. praevias! But don't ya just love some of those threatening stand over tactics by support (now there's a loose term) people demanding you give pain relief? We've had to call security a few times - it can be so distressing for the women and the birth process, eh! GW Dear Gaye If midwives provided 1-2-1 care and women actually got to know and trust them your c/s rate would plummet. The partner or support people would also be more likely to trust, and hell what a better outcome and ongoing relationship for the couple and the new family. So wheres the proposal for a caseload program?? Quite frankly I cant believe any woman can birth successfully amongst strangers,as I said on 60 Minutes its like having sex in public (oh a didnt they love that line!) Kind regards Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] The Land
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] The Land Dear Diane Better than the letter, about to call the Editor. Have set up a number of letters from unknowns! So not newsworthy and as usual with no solution. I know rural issues will be our ticket to reform. Kind regards Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] induced for the football???
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] induced for the football??? What a load its a consumers market. Only if as a consumer you agree with the butchery that is obstetrics. Try achieving a natural birth, access to a midwife or God forbid a homebirth! It is a giant lie, there is no choice and it is certainly NOT about consumers! JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] FW: Too many c/s in Gawler
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] FW: Too many c/s in Gawler Dear Tania and all I went to the Advertisers website to write a letter and noticed the lead story was allegations of blame re the deaths of 3 mental health patients due to a lack of funding etc. THIS MADE MY ALREADY HOT BLOOD BOIL!! So heres what I wrote. I can't help but compare two of your recent stories and find myself so frustrated that health bureaucrats and politicians refuse to act and provide health care based on need rather than greed. It is alleged that 3 mental health patients lost their lives due to a lack of resources (Lives Broken 29/9). On the same day a report from Gawler citing unsafe maternity practices with a soaring caesarean section rate (Too many c/s in Gawler). With caesarean rates 30% and above we know that healthy women without medical conditions are having unnecessary surgery. When there is no need this abuse of public funds is tantamount to fraud. Dr Annabelle Chans response in comparing statistics in other states was trite to say the least. There is considerable evidence that midwifery models of care reduce caesarean section, enhance womens experience, increase breastfeeding rates and save considerable amounts of money. In South Australia as in the rest of the country the majority of healthy women cannot choose primary midwifery care and are rather forced into medically dominated care, protected by huge vested interest. Remember that every health dollar wasted on a healthy patient is taken from a sick and needy one. JC xx
[ozmidwifery] Ms Devine
Title: Ms Devine Dear All Its great that you write to Miranda. But I do not think it will do any good. If you saw the replies (yes several) I got you would understand, caustic to say the least! Please edit your letters to 200 words and send them to the SMH letters page. We need the editor to understand that this pathetic standard of journalism is not unnoticed!! [EMAIL PROTECTED] JC
Re: [ozmidwifery] Northern Rivers
Dear Abby and all You said I would charge the Ob, I believe that was the first and only time in my life when I have been sexually abused. Can I suggest that unless women like you make complaints to the HCCC that these practices will remain and more women will feel violated from obstetric practice. When Maternity Coalition met with the NSW Health Care Complaints Commissioner she made it very clear that although she 'knew' that maternity services were pretty much broken in NSW on the basis of complaints against Obs they looked wonderful (ie 13 out of 86,000). Groups like MC will only remain credible if women are brave and 'come forward' (to appropriate agencies) with their complaints. I do not know how hard it is to mount a complaint against a Dr. But I do know how hard it is to address the torment of sexual abuse so in a way I can sympathise. Kind regards Justine -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] ACT homebirth?
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] ACT homebirth? Hi Tania No its not outlawed!!! It should have been free, Barb Vernon and I actually got it in the ACT budget, but some very naive midwives sided with the head Ob and thought they could do it within the confines of the CMP. That did not last long. The policy that was developed was the worst I have seen actually asking women why they choose Hb over the safety of Hosp, and asking them if they were aware that they would not have drugs (making them sound VERY attractive and necessary). They also refused to allow midwives to carry oxygen and their answer was to simply call an ambulance. It was a ridiculous situation. Since then there has continued to be one independent midwife providing services, there was a couple of midwives working in the system also doing homebirths but I dont think they still do. A more recent development has been the ability for CMP midwives to provide private services on the side. Which is positive as 1 independent midwife is hardly sustainable. The fabulous report into maternity services (chaired by my former boss!) that included a trip to NZ and made fabulous recommendations was totally canned by the Health Minister (17 months after it was released). Ironically he had used the CMP for both his children and yet he refuses to increase capacity or offer women greater choice. He did however commit to greater resources for the NICU. Glad to see the world staying exactly the same with women rating so poorly! Each day I have more respect for those suffragettes who threw themselves in front of race horses!! I need to think of a less lethal action however. A Parliament House birth still!! Kindest Justine
Re: [ozmidwifery] Indigestion at breakfast....
Dear All My response to Miranda. JC xx Dear Miranda Your headline today was perfect. It is unfortunate that the story did not follow. I am a Mother of 4, with twins due in November (yes I know what contraception is!). I live in rural NSW and have been without a maternity service for 15 years (long before I had my babies). We have no specialist Obstetrician nor a GP with obstetric training and probably never will. We do however have 3 local midwives who would provide care to low risk women in our local hospital. Currently I travel 150 kms to receive antenatal care. I have no choice in this care, and the conditions of the nearest unit are pre-historic. Miranda I read some time ago about your experiences and understand (correct me if I am wrong) that you chose caesarean section. I respect that you made that choice. Do you believe that as a woman I too should have choice? Because currently like 50% of rural women I have none. Do you believe that the safety of both myself and baby is important? (From your story it would seem so) If you do a little more research on what is happening in the majority of rural units and even some on metropolitan fringes then you would understand that I (as a healthy woman) would be much safer in my local community with midwifery care (even without on site medical care). My ³choice² now is to dodge Kangaroos in labour (no doubt in the middle of the night) in an area with no mobile coverage, or risk an ambulance ride if it is all too quick. Why do I say risk¹ well our Ambo¹s who are amazing people are not equipped for a post partum haemorrhage (they do not carry syntocinon which stops bleeding, a drug midwives are trained to use and carry). So if I have the baby enroute and have a big bleed after they simply become good drivers. Most women do not know this and when we are often talking 2 hour (road) transfers (and then some!) this is very important. If I was in my local community in a midwifery unit a midwife would have the drug and the required knowledge to stop the bleeding. My 3rd baby was a 50 minute labour from one small pain to a baby in arms. I know I am much safer with midwives caring for me in a system that already has safe transfer arrangements for all other conditions (we live and drive cars and work on farms and have accidents in the country that require transfer). By the way where I live is by no means remote, It is in the Upper Hunter Valley, 2 and a half hours north west of Newcastle. Women and babies deserve better. Midwifery clinics can offer a choice to women that are patently unsafe now. Midwifery clinics are not just better than birth on the side of the road, they can safely assist the majority of women with healthy pregnancies and refer the minority of women needing medical assistance. At the moment none of this happens. I would be happy to talk with you should you be open to hearing stories of rural women in this situation. Kind regards Justine Caines Phone (02) 65482248 -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Wyong reopens
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Wyong reopens Dear Diane Great news and good on you all the midwives fighting for women. I also extend a hearty thanks to Carol Chapman (NSW Pres of Maternity Coalition) and local Wyong women. Remember to keep supporting Maternity Coalition as there are a few women that personally fund all this activity (usually via their hubbies pay packets!). Would be great to see Wyong offering some caseload care like Ryde/Belmont in the future! Kind regards Justine Caines From: diane mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2005 10:41 AM Subject: [ozmidwifery] wyong reopens Hi everyone, Hot breaking news today... Wyong birthing unit is opening next Monday as a low risk birthing unit. Anything outside the ACMI guidelines are refered or transfered to Gosford. We're so excited Cheers Diane
Re: [ozmidwifery] Re: Breech Babies
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Re: Breech Babies Dear All This Obstetrician is Andrew Bissits from John Hunter in Newcastle. I heard he has cared for over 400 women birthing breech babies vaginally. He is the only Ob in Australia I would allow to touch me (lucky I live 2 and a half hrs away!) He didnt even baulk at my ranty presentation called myth busters (assessing what really happens inside the current system) Yesterday Andrew hosted a day on midwifery-led birth units that was VERY successful, partly due to an insane presentation by Pieter Mourik. 175 participants from several states and international speakers. Midwives were well represented with Kathleen Fahy, Sally Tracy, Anne Saxton, Nicky Leap, Pat Brodie, and Maralyn Rowley, 3 consumers, Dr Ric Gordon re the success of Bath in the UK The best part from me was speaking to a midwife I had never met who is working in a stand alone unit who had never previously been able to work her full scope who had recently witnessed her first waterbirth with a woman she had got to know . She said I did nothing I just watched this wonderful woman. This was a midwife who had previously been reluctant to work caseload in the stand-alone model. Theres a message in that for everyone who rejects caseload as too hard etc etc. We need so many more to embrace the change and make it work for midwives and women Viva la Revolution JC
[ozmidwifery] Pieter Mourik in The Australian
Title: Pieter Mourik in The Australian Dear all Here is the rant in the Oz today, I think he will assist us greatly! Interesting that re his insurance he has forgotten that taxpayers actually pay 80% of his premiums while midwives get no assistance! Also a copy of my letter to the Oz As a mother of 4, soon to be 6, I hold the safety of my children and myself dear. Dr Mourik's assessment of safety is little more than scare-mongering spin. Large Hospitals are not lined with medicos on hand for the 'what ifs' they are overstretched with competing interests. Private Hospitals and smaller units need to call in medical staff. Current services disregard the appropriate roles for midwives and doctors due to a complete stranglehold by the vested medical interests. The safety of midwifery is established. What is yet to be examined (due to a lack of medical accountability) is the safety and appropriateness of the routine care the majority of women are subjected to. In large centres women are herded like cattle and cared for with a clock and organisational management as a guide, rather than practices based on scientific evidence and women's choice. In rural areas it's generally a couple of hundred kilometres dodging kangaroos (due to no local service). I'm glad Dr Mourik has retired because his assertions that Drs can provide a safe service and emergency care in an instant need full scrutiny. Examination of current routine maternity care will reveal a sick system indeed. Midwives invaluable, but they must be in a hospital setting Peter Mourik September 03, 2005 IT was 8am and Sally - not her real name - had been in labour all night. She was tired but exhilarated; this was the moment she had waited for. This was her first baby, she was healthy and had been assessed as low risk, so she was confident. The labour was hard, but she received all the support she needed from her partner and the midwives, who had been wonderful. Her labour crossed three shifts of nurses. Now she had to push. Suddenly, even though her baby had been frequently listened to during her labour, the midwife found the baby's heart rate had dropped to a dangerous 60, and stayed at 60 despite rolling Sally over and giving oxygen. The midwife examined her and found the baby was not going to deliver quickly. The emergency alarm was rung. Within a minute, the visiting doctor, fortunately doing his rounds, arrived and conferred with the midwife, then rapidly delivered the baby with a vacuum. The umbilical cord was not only around the neck once, but five times. The baby was sleepy, but started breathing in one minute and was safe. This is a true story, and not uncommon; if this baby had been delivered in a free-standing midwife-only unit, or at home, it would not have survived the 30-minute transfer. Midwives cannot and should not do operative deliveries. They have not had the training that doctors have had. Midwives cannot provide their services in isolation from doctors, because they cannot guarantee to complete a safe delivery. To remove childbirth to free-standing midwife-only units, or worse, to a home, is simply taking unnecessary risks. Women who select themselves as healthy may be underestimating their risks. In Australia 30 per cent of women are obese, which increases all known complications. Women are leaving their childbearing until much older, which also increases the risk of complications. Over half the women having their first baby fail to have a normal delivery. Then there are other complications, like those where the baby is too big for a natural birth, or the cord may be around the baby's neck, strangling it during labour. The cord cannot be detected without monitoring during labour. The baby could be undersized or malnourished, which is difficult to detect clinically. Thirty per cent of these babies develop acute distress in labour, requiring immediate operative delivery. The baby's shoulders may become stuck during delivery, which although fortunately only happens in one in 500 births, is one of the most dangerous and difficult deliveries experienced, immediately needing the extra skills provided by an obstetrician. Even after normal delivery, 5 per cent of healthy women have a massive bleed, rising to 15 per cent if an injection to contract the uterus is refused. Can you imagine how dangerous this can be in a home environment? These complications are what we see in developing countries, and to advocate home deliveries or free-standing midwife-only units (with no immediate medical help close at hand) is like going backwards in time. Between 30 and 50 per cent of women who choose midwife-managed births have to be transferred to a doctor she has never met. If the woman delivers in a team model of care, immediate medical or surgical help is available and the same midwife is able to support the woman to the very end of delivery. Until now, Australia has led the world in safety in childbirth because midwives
Re: [ozmidwifery] Men at births
I agree Megan, but sadly we have had these wonderful experiences due to independent midwifery and homebirth. I can see how so many men (even the good one's!) would be traumatised by birth within the system and see it as such a gruesome event. Long before I had children I worked in a large Gov Department and at a morning tea to celebrate a colleagues first baby he recounted the story. He was a bit of a pig but his opening words were Picture it, a slaughterhouse.. A close friend of my husband recounts the birth of their first child, episiotomy and forceps as the most brutal, gross thing he has ever seen He seems to place his wife as part of this. He refuses to understand how Paul's experience has been one of beauty, amazement, respect and a deepening of our relationship (and before marriage and children they were similar type blokes). So other than the type of birth what was the difference? The education and the support and the TRUST, through the model of care (we had HB's they had Priv Ob/hosp). My husband trusted our known carer, he believed in me and we were rewarded greatly for taking responsibility rather than abdicating one of the most crucial human experiences to a virtual stranger. So while 99% of men witness the birth of their children in a hosp setting sharing a most intimate moment (yes so similar to sex) amongst strangers and enduring a raft of unnecessary interventions (some plain barbaric) then is there any wonder men feel they were at the 'wrong end of the bed'. To me this is why it is so hard for people to accept that birth can be beautiful when their experience has been so different. Justine Mum to 4 home born children, hubby caught 3 and held me for number 4! Looking forward (well trying) to catch one of the next 2 myself! -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: 'Higher risk' in midwife deliveries (http://theaustralian.com.au report)
Hi All Janet consumer letters are published quite regularly (well MC members seem to be). I had a corker refuting Pieter Mourik's assertion re homebirth safety where I called him 'factually impotent' Letters to the Ed are hard to crack. I have a 50/50 success rate. After a while you adapt to a style (I can write 200 very cutting words these days to span the myriad of issues but it has TAKEN A LOT OF PRACTICE!) Remember you will never get published if you go over word count. I would congratulate Adam Cresswell for naming Obstetricians groups as Industrial lobby groups! I love it. Also let's ask Dr Pesche about his evidence on Australian safety re midwife models (we know he hasn't got it!!) E-mail is always best (but most do that these days I know). Some allow 250 words but I seem to stay on 200! They rather individuals not orgs (so unless I am correcting a wrong of an article I have been in and one usually gets right of reply) I go as an individual. Keep up the great work Kind regards Justine Caines -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
[ozmidwifery] Letter re SMH Article
Dear All I understand there are a number of hurdles (when aren't there for us!!) But I feel we need to work hard to make this work for women and midwives. Here's my letter to the SMH, will be interested in others responses. JC Bravo to Andrew Pesche, AMA Spokesperson (Finally ready for delivery: midwives through Medicare, SMH 16 August) for championing safety and the essential role of midwives in the care of healthy women. It would seem that Dr Clark from the College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has never stepped out of the comfort zone of the domain of the majority of obstetricians, a metropolitan city. Dr Clark's attitude will continue to enslave rural women to the danger of birth on the side of the road, the enormous financial and emotional upheaval of relocation hundreds of kilometres away. Dr Clark continues to say that the option of midwifery care is a reduction in choice. Just how does he figure that? As a mother of 4, soon to be 6 my local maternity service has been closed for 13 years. There is no free antenatal care through Medicare and many women simply choose to have no care. Then at the time of birth women either risk dodging Kangaroos at 2am or live at a motel prior to birth. The nearest Obstetrician is over 200 kms away. Bring on midwives and finally let women decide who cares for them at such an important time. Justine Caines 69 Vennacher St MERRIWA NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65482248 -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] HBA
Hi Lindsay GO FOR IT! It would be so nice for you and your babes to have a lovely homebirth. Happy to assist you re pushing for it. I help heaps of Mums through Homebirth Australia get a rebate. You need to talk to a midwife soon though just in case!! Robyn Thompson would be a good one My 2 are very little but seemingly fine, gee already 3kgs, good work JC Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 105 Merriwa NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65482248 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
[ozmidwifery] Birth Pool suitable for use in a small unit
Dear All Just wondering if anyone knows about a semi-permanent type birth pool suitable for use in a small birth unit (220 births per year). There is the opportunity for corporate sponsorship to get this happening so we sort of need something more than a kids wading pool. Any ideas? JC xx -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
[ozmidwifery] Twin Homebirth Story (VERY LONG)
Dear Tania and all I was sad to hear that you had bad twin experiences and that this has left you doubting twin homebirth (as a non midwife I have the luxury of not carrying the load of adverse/negative outcomes, unless my own) I have been on the Homebirth UK list for 5 years and this story stood out a year or so back. Sarah gave us permission and we published it in the Homebirth Aust Mag so some may have seen it, not just a twin Hb but a HBAC!! Hope you enjoy JC Twins - born at home. Rhianna May - 6lbs 10.5oz - 04:40 Euan Christopher - 8lbs 13oz - 05:50 I had decided that I wanted a homebirth with an independent midwife before we had even conceived the twins. My first birth was a nightmare - a long labour - a cascade of intervention - and finally an emergency caesarean. My second was much better - in hospital again but this time with a patient midwife who helped me achieve a VBAC. I was petrified that I wouldn't get such a patient midwife this time, so felt the best thing to do was go independent and to stay at home. When I found out I was carrying twins at 20 weeks, I was even more pleased with my decision!!! It didn't sway me from my homebirth at all and I kept to my same decision of no consultant care and no more scans. Although, I did have one very quick scan at 36 weeks as we weren't 100% sure on the leading twin's presentation, and I wanted to get myself prepared if it was a double breech birth on the cards. However, I now wish I hadn't bothered with that scan! I am going to leave most times out of my birth story as it puts me off of writing about the important bits. I will just tell you now that from waters to birth of twin 2 was about 14 hours. Including the birth of the placentas, it all took place between roughly 15:15 on the 13th June and 06:10 on the 14th June 2004 . After convincing myself I would go overdue I found myself in a state of shock and panic when my waters went exactly 2 weeks before my due date, on Sunday 13th June. At first I thought I had wet myself - I was in complete denial! I rushed to the loo and after a few minutes I gave in and accepted that this was it. We had been hoping that my waters wouldn't break until well into labour, if not the second stage as we thought the leading twin was a footling breech. However, I checked and there was no prolapsed foot or cord which reassured me a little. I called to my partner Ian to grab me a towel. When I answered his question of why? he immediately turned into a bit of a headless chicken and started running round trying to get things sorted and look after our daughters who were only two and a half years and 16 months old. We weren't prepared at all! (38 weeks pregnant with twins and not prepared - what does that say about me?!) I called my midwife Lynn, my mum and text my aunt as I had promised. Lynn was on her way with Rosie, the second midwife, and my mum put down her glass of wine so that she would be able to come up later when I called her again. I wasn't contracting, so I figured there was no rush. Then I just sat on my bum in bed as instructed by Lynn! They didn't want me to get labour going too quickly if it was a footling breech in there. My aunt who has 12 year old twins herself, then called me and made me feel a million times better about these babies being on their way. Lynn and Rosie arrived and they both seemed happy and calm which reassured me a whole lot more and I relaxed quite a lot. I'd been panicking that I wasn't ready emotionally for the labour. I also wasn't sure how I would manage 4 children who were all so young! But I suddenly felt sure I could do this. We joked a bit about how things had led up to this day - Lynn had told me jokingly I could birth at the weekend as it was quiet for her, and my mum had told me to remember that England's first Euro 2004 match was on Sunday, so not to labour then! I then spent a while worrying that I had annoyed people by labouring during the match as I knew that Lynn, my mum and Ian had all been planning on watching it! I really am not happy unless I have something to worry over! (I will just point out that at no point did anyone make me feel guilty about this - it was just me worrying myself!) I called my mum after a short time as I had been getting lower back aches. I figured if I called her at this point she could get here in time to watch the football! (See - it was still the only thing on my mind!) We also needed her to give the girls some love and attention as they had figured something was happening and they weren't at all happy about going to bed. When mum got here she came up to give me a kiss and a cuddle and then took over with our girls. Ian then carried on tying up a few loose ends whilst I contracted slowly but surely whilst pacing the bedroom floor. Lynn called student midwife Lorraine to ask her to attend, and left a message on Mary Cronk's answer phone to let her know things had started. Lynn and I had discussed many aspects and possibilities of
Re: [ozmidwifery] umbilical cord
Yvette As a guesstimate I would say this is the practice of 90-95% of births, most women have no clue their is even an option. It would seem the evidence re active management of 3rd stage is dodgy as the loss is not measured outside the birthing area and I believe that administering syntocinon on presentation of the anterior shoulder asks for trouble (zealous yanking and cords snapping not to mention the whole disturbance of natural oxytocin (the love drug) and the mother love and bond), but hey welcome to modern obstetrics! JC as the hospital where i work practices active management of third stage of labour which is controlled cord traction and syntocion with the birth of the anterior shoulder. Lindsay Yvette [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I wonder if it started off as a twin pregnancy. Was there some reason the placenta could not be left to come out on it's own? Yvette (not a midwife, just pg with twins mother of 3) -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [ozmidwifery] physiological 3rd stage
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] physiological 3rd stage Dear Susan and All As a non-clinician I have kept out of this discussion, although I am very interested. A midwife friend of mine mentioned that blood loss was not really measured outside the birth unit so the true loss associated with managed 3rd stage is not really known (do you also think this?). Perhaps this could be a research proposal in your obstetric managed no doubt 99% managed 3rd stage unit!!! I am unsure of the logistics of it but its worth a thought. I seem to think we get nowhere with the benefits of nature etc (ie natural birth, breastfeeding) so perhaps it is time to broadcast the negatives of the interventions very clearly. Managed vs physiological 3rd stage would be a great one as so few women understand that the jab is an intervention. Perhaps the other side of the research could be a homebirth midwives practice (where the majority of 3rd stages are physiological). I am banking on the benefits of homebirthing for my 4 soon 5. I need all the help I can get. On the breastfeeding front, not one ear infection or any sickness in all 4 vs the repeat sickness of friends with the bottle-fed (but we knew that!). Kind regards Justine
[ozmidwifery] Antenatal Urine Analysis
Title: Antenatal Urine Analysis Dear Wise Ones I am about to spar with a local GP and was looking for some wee on the stick evidence. I somehow remember there was an article that came across the list on routine antenatal urine analysis. Any one know what I am talking about? JC Justine Caines National President Maternity Coalition Inc PO Box 105 MERRIWA NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65482248 Fax: (02)65482902 Mob: 0408 210273 E-Mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.maternitycoalition.org.au
[ozmidwifery] Homebirth Albury/Wodonga
Title: Homebirth Albury/Wodonga Dear All Does anyone know of an independent midwife covering the Albury/Wodonga area?? Many Thanks Justine Justine Caines Secretary Homebirth Australia PO Box 105 Merriwa NSW 2329 Ph: (02) 65482248 E-Mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.homebirthaustralia.org
Re: [ozmidwifery] sexual abuse and labour
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] sexual abuse and labour From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, 6 June 2005 6:36 AM To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Subject: [ozmidwifery] sexual abuse and labour could anyone point in the direction of research about the effects of sexual abuse (childhood or as an adult) has on labour. I was having a conversation with a friend of mine and she finds it difficult to believe that the psychological can interrupt the physiological. Thanks Sally Dear Sally and All I suggest your friend has never encountered anyone who has been sexually assaulted/abused, although with one in 4 women if she is a midwife then I doubt it. Liz Mullinar, heads up an organisation called ASCA (Advocates for Survivors of Sexual Abuse). She presented at the 2003 Homebirth Australia Conference and was very well received. She noted that labours (of survivors) tend to either have precipitous labours or extremely long labours. Womens psychological damage rewsults in not wanting to feel the sensations of birth (particularly the more sexual sensations) and works very quickly or holds on hoping never to sense it. As a survivor of sexual assault I can vouch that I fell into the very long labour with number 1. I had an out of body experience and felt that death was imminent (yes I know that there is that death thing around birth but mine was directly related to the assault as I relieved it. I had no urge to push (yes other women have this too) and felt my body closing down when I was directed to give a little push on the next contraction. The sensation of bushing and particularly the full sensation towards my anus made me wish I was dead. I was not scared of birth I was terrified of what came next in my repeat performance of the assault (as it was at knifepoint). Here comes the sad bit. If Id have been in the system it probably would have been totally relived with an [EMAIL PROTECTED] I swear if that had happened I would now be in an asylum. But due to a skilled midwife and me being at home a beautiful and EXTREMELY healing birth took place. Oh and by the way I had previoulsy dealt with my assault through 12 months of psychotherapy (several years before) and the whole episode took me by total surprise. Birth and sexual abuse/assault have an amazing link even if the woman cant articulate it (repressed memory unable to articulate it etc). Australias production line birth and inhumane interventions no doubt force women to relive abuse everyday. You can contact Liz Mullinar through the ASCA website www.asca.org.au or if you want to I will contact her personally for her references. Justine
