My 13 year old daughter is learning about human reproduction in her 8th
grade health class.  She asked me "Why do they tell you that you can't
take drugs when you're pregnant, and then they give you an epidural
when you have the baby?"  DUH.  It's obvious to my 13 year old, but
somehow the logic seems to evade thousands of pregnant women and
their OB's!

I grabbed this teachable moment to discuss unmedicated birth.  I assured
her I would be right there with her so she wouldn't need to have any
drugs.  I thought it was a good idea to plant the seed early, although we
still have a way to go with brestfeeding as she told me she'll never do
that because it's disgusting.

Rachelle Lessen, RD, IBCLC (who has been through labor and delivery 4
times without an epidural and has wonderful memories of childbirth)
Philadelphia, PA  USA