impact of technology on childbirth technology and society
TRANSCRIPT
IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY ON CHILDBIRTH
Technology and Society
Conception
Fertility DrugsArtificial InseminationTest-tube babyCloning
Pregnancy
Monitoring Blood Tests Urine Tests Ultrasound DNA Tests
Fetal Surgery
Scheduled Delivery
Inducing labor early Based on Ultrasound determined weight “Late Birth” based on Due Date estimate
Planned C-section. For convenience of mother, doctor (when not
medically necessary)
Managed Labor/ Cascade of Intervention
Hospital Setting Monitors, IVs Loss of privacy/control of environment Psychological effects, stress
Timing/Duration Inducing drugs, breaking the membranes Length of labor/artificial deadlines
Birth Process Pain killing drugs – Epidural ( US rate 90%+) Position, lack of ability to move freely Episiotomy Forceps, Suction C-section – ( US rate >25%)
Side Effects?
Postoperative Complications Infections of baby or mother Continued pain
Effects on Nursing the baby Effects of epidural, C-section, drugs Social customs that play a role
Nursing only for poor, negative body image Working moms: Pumping/Freezing 60% try, 20% after 2-4 months, Less than 5% at a year.
Postpartum DepressionInfant/Mother Mortality
Questioning the Model
Is childbirth a disease/illness that needs medical intervention?
How much intervention is needed? Is technology serving us or interfering with a natural process?
Cesareans Gone Wild?
The Rise in Cesarean Rates
Caesareans around the World
Lowest: Netherlands holding steady between 13 – 14% from 2001 to 2010
Low: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Israel all holding steady around 16% from 2001 to 2010
High: Australia, Germany, Korea, Switzerland, USA all above 30% by 2010
Highest:Mexico and Turkey above 40% by 2010http://www.cesareanrates.com/blog/2012/12/8/world-cesarean-rates-oecd-countries.html
More $$$ = Better Outcomes???
“The United States spends $98 billion annually on hospitalization for pregnancy and childbirth, but the US maternal mortality rate has doubled in the past 25 years. The U.S. ranks 50th in the world for maternal mortality, meaning 49 countries were better at keeping new mothers alive.” Huffington Post
Alternatives/Adjuncts
Hospital/Birthing Center/HomePrivacy/Calm EnvironmentMother-centered practicesMidwife/Doula/DoctorGuided Breathing/RelaxationAlternate Positions/Birthing ChairHypnobirthingWater birth