As the US celebrates independence and freedom as a country, it serves as a reminder to expectant mothers around the world to explore the choices they have in birth.
The 4th of July is a popular summer holiday for families in the United States. One in which we are reminded of the great freedoms we have in this country in so many arenas.
We can use this holiday as a symbol for freedom of many kinds. Freedom to give birth as a woman chooses is one that cannot be taken for granted today. Unfortunately, complete freedom in birth is not possible for all women around the globe. Women are inhibited from the choices they seek because of financial reasons, limits to their health care, distances they must travel, their own health care complications or the options in their own communities in terms of places of birth or care providers, to name a few.
If you are someone who has been able to have the type of birth you hoped for, in many ways, you are exception, rather than the rule. Let's continue to hope and pray that birthing options for all women will increase rather than decrease in the next generation. Our only hope is that our daughters' generations will refuse to settle for less options and stand up for their freedom to give birth without unnecessary interventions that benefit both themselves and their babies.
Warmly,
Brenda
