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From:
Kellie Whitney <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Sun, 30 Jul 2006 16:31:20 -0700
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I can attest that a birth that is low in intervention, followed by successful breastfeeding can be tremendously empowering for a woman who is a survivor of rape or sexual abuse. After delivering my son (realtively) naturally and breastfeeding, I felt truly "healed." To give life and nourish it was cathartic for me. My rape happend many years ago, and I was as "over it" as I though I would ever be by the time I delivered my son. But the power I felt during the birthing experience really changed me. One cannot "control" the complete birthing experience, but one can face it with strength and joy.Of course, the prospect of being out of control during birth is terrifying for any woman, not just a survivor. I was fortunate to have my very supportive husband and mother with me, as well as a dear friend who all devoted themselves to advocating for me and helping me to be more comfortable. 
   
  I now almost never think of the unpleasantness in my past, not because I am in denial, but because I have moved past it. Many of my friends have had a similar experience. Taking charge of our birthing experiences allowed us to finally take back our sexuallity. Now my job is to raise a son who respects and cherishes women, and a daughter who will be strong, whatever circumstances she may face.
   
  I can only immagine how horrible it would be for a survivor to then feel violated by the very healthcare professionals who are there to help her.
   
  --Kellie Whitney, LLLL


  
Date: Sun, 30 Jul 2006 12:59:55 -0400
From: kelly valceanu 

Subject: Re: abuse in health care


I can report from personal experience as a birth worker that indeed every 
fifth or sixth client you see will statistically have had an abusive event 
in her history. It manifests itself almost always, in many ways subtle and 
not so, during labor and birth. There is a great book about this subject by 
Penny Simkin called, “When Survivors Give Birth”. Unfortunately it ends with 
birth and doesn’t delve into the realm of breastfeeding and the abuse 
survivor. This is the book, thesis, guidance I’m looking for. I can make it 
up, but was wondering if there was anything out there to teach birth workers 
who know very little about lactation how to help.

I treat all my various clients as if they have survived some abuse. It seems 
a bit jaded, but one in five is a high percentage and it’s a reality.

Thanks,
Kelly Valceanu, MA, AAHCC, CD(DONA), LLL Leader, apprentice midwife, mama to 
two boys


 		
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