Although this post is about midwives, let me start first by saying that some
of you may recall my earlier posts a few years ago where I did some sharing
about my second born son.  We had a traumatic emergency c-section birth which
was followed by  constant infections that ultimately lead to a tonsilectomy.
Needless to say I had some reservations about having a third child even though I
really wanted one.  When I posted this story several of you sent some
heartwarming and kind messages ( I still have them).  Well, I have some news--I am
expecting my third child in April and it is my long awaited little girl.

Now my birth choice is a midwife.  Unfortunately, as a healthcare consumer I
have met several barriers to my choice.  First, I called the midwife I have
been seeing for about 5 years,  only to find out she had her VBAC privledges
taken away 1 year ago.  So I called another. She can only do VBACs at a hospital
that doesn't take my HMO insurance.  I called another but she practices
"medwifery".  I had almost given up when I found a midwife in LA  (I live in Orange
county).  She came well recommended by another midwife--I was estatic as I had
run out of options.Then last month the physicians she contracts with got new
malpractice insurance and they are not sure they are covered to back her up
even though the midwife has her own insurance.  They have told her she can't do
hospital deliveries until it is cleared up.  She may have to find another back
up physician but probably won't find one who takes my insurance.   Now, I may
have to have her back up obstetrician IN LA deliver my baby (although the
midwife has agreed to doula me).  My hands are tied since home birth is not an
option for a VBAC thanks to ACOG.

I am sure that hearing of a mother who's choices are limited and even removed
in our society is not a surprise to any of you.  Someone is looking into
complaining to the insurance commissioner.  But, if anyone has any suggestions on
how I can fight this--let me know!
Christine Betzold NP IBCLC MSN
www.starfireinternational.net/breastfed

In a message dated 1/25/2004 10:31:57 AM Pacific Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:
BF advocates need to join forces with CNMs and direct entry midwives to help
each other.  We need you to speak out and demand access to CNM care in your
communities, and then actively support it.  We must work together to let women
know they have choices, and that birth can be a powerful event in their lives.

             ***********************************************

To temporarily stop your subscription: set lactnet nomail
To start it again: set lactnet mail (or digest)
To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
All commands go to [log in to unmask]

The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(R)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html