I can talk to you about this -- I'm not a midwife or LC, but I have had a
child in an American hospital and can describe the wide range of options
available.

Although I don't care for it, the book "What to Expect When You Are
Expecting" is considered by many to be the birth Bible. I think it is an
accurate description of what many American women expect and ask for. I
prefer the books by Dr. Sears (The Pregnancy Book, The Birth Book) as
well-balanced discussions of what one can have to choose from.

In general, any type of birth experience is possible in the US. One must do
one's homework, research what is in one's community, make decisions based on
budget and one's health history, etc. Personally, my birth was in a
hospital, but it was a very pleasant surprise. In the US one can usually
decline (by signing forms) any procedure. A polite "No thank you" will often
eliminate interventions. But one must know what to expect and be prepared to
make these decisions.

A birth plan, albeit a brief one, is a good place to initiate a discussion
with one's healthcare provider. It is really important to ascertain the
HCP's c-section rate, induction rate, episiotomy rate. How to they define
and handle late babies. AND, it is never too late to change providers.
NEVER.

Hope this helps.

Best regards,
Amanda Surbey
Buenos Aires, Argentina
[log in to unmask]
A vivir que son dos dias.

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