>  >it's the women's bodies that are at defective
>One might also consider the substantial numbers who now opt for c-section as
>it is felt to be more 'convenient'. i.e. a guaranteed day which allows
>schedules to be planned - and less pain.


This idea has had a lot of publicity recently in the UK - under the
slogan 'too posh to push?'

I have seen no stats, or even heard from women themselves, or
midwives, that 'substantial' numbers are choosing sections for
reasons of diary-led convenience.  A recent discussion on another
list I am on concluded there were no  stats at all showing mother's
convenience as a major reason.

On the whole,  it would not be easy to get a 'caesarean on demand' on
the NHS for convenience reasons.  (Not saying it doesn't happen,
ever, though)

Our stats show caesarean section is rising all over the UK, but it is
for 'clinical' reasons (ahem).

No, our system, with our shortage of midwives and institutionalised
birth practices do a very good job of increasing the section rate
with very little help from women...they may acquiesce, but they do
very little active choosing.

Heather Welford Neil
NCT bfc Newcastle upon Tyne UK

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