I have given birth to three boys. The labors and deliveries were different. All my births occurred in a hospital. My first labor started with my water breaking and it was 10 hours long. I was 37 weeks pregnant and he weighted 8 lbs. 0 oz. and was 19 inches long. My second child was born in four hours and the doctor had to break my water. I was 38 weeks along and he weighted 7 lbs. 11 oz. and 17 inches long. My third child was born in 2 hours. We checked in to the hospital at 2:18pm and he was born at 2:48pm! I am thankful that we did not stay home any longer than we did. I was 38 1/2 weeks pregnant. He weighed 9 lbs. 6 oz. and 21 inches long. By far my third labor and delivery was more traumatic than the other two. It happened so fast and I was very scared. My husband was a great partner during the labor and delivery process! We have three wonderful boys that we love VERY much.
I think that after birth mom needs to be sure to take of herself because if mom is not able to take care of the baby then that will affect the newborn. Development domains start forming the moment a child is born.
I researched Italy's child birthing practices and found out that Italians have free state-run health care. Childbirth in Italy usually takes place in a hospital, where a stay of three days is normal, although it can be longer if complications arise. Maternity wards usually have two or three beds; mothers must provide clothing and accessories for their babies, although medical supplies are provided. A gynecologist, an obstetrician, a nurse and a medical specialist who looks after babies during the first four weeks (neonatologo) supervise childbirth. Husbands usually attend births; although mothers can ask for any relative to do so. Italian women do not generally give birth at home and if you want to do so, you must arrange (and pay) for a private obstetrician to attend the delivery.
The birthing experiences in the US and Italy are very similar. The main difference is we do not have access to free state-run health care. In addition, we do not have a medical specialist who looks after babies during the first four weeks (neonatologo).
Elizabeth I enjoyed reading about the experiences in Italy! For all the differences there are so many similarities between the experiences of Mom. What is interesting to me is that developed countries want to do all they can to support Mom and baby. I am interested in what developed nations will do over the next few years in terms of women's health issues in the developing world. Do you have any thoughts?
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your stories, three blessings!
Sharon