Lisa wrote: "I've got the feeling that some of the nurses don't believe in natural childbirth, don't "have time" to sit with the mom, don't believe in a need for a better way than the meds. I'm all for informed consent, but when we have these quote unquote determined parents NEVER succeeding, I don't know what to think. Where are we falling down?" Homework assignment to address this topic: (1) Klaus, M., Kennell, J, et al. Maternal Assistance and Support in Labor: Father, Nurse, Midwife or Doula? Clinical Consultations in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vol 4, No 4 (December), 1992: pp 211 - 217. Discusses effects of social support on perinatal outcomes. Meta-analysis of 5 randomized clinical trials found presence of doula reduced length of labor by 25%, cesarean section rates reduced by 34-67%; reduced odds of needing pain medications up to 47% -- and one hospital reduced epidural rate from 64% to 11%. Breastfeeding rates improved, also. Anyone who wants to be inspired should order the tape of Dr. Klaus addressing the ILCA conference on this topic, July 1995. Lisa: Play the video or audio of this session for the "non-believer" nurses (video is best--seeing him will "soften" the tough cookies in the group). Margery Wilson, IBCLC