I very rarely participate in discussions on Lactnet, as I now work peripherally to lactation. I was an active IBCLC for 10 years, though, and a volunteer for years before that, so I still enjoy "keeping abreast" via Lactnet. Until today. My blood is boiling! I am stunned that an acknowledged forced cesarean surgery, done for the benefit of the institution, physicians and insurance providers, could in any way be considered "empowering." http://www.birthrites.org/OliverBS.html Given the lower rate of b/f initiation following c/s deliveries and the plethora of physical and emotional problems experienced by mothers and babies in the short and longer term after surgical birth, I am constantly in awe of the fact that the c/s epidemic has not become a women's rights issue. I would highly recommend reading the Childbirth Connections site to learn more about patient's rights, informed refusal and the pros/cons of c/s surgery: www.childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10256&ClickedLink=0&area=34 The Coalition for Improving Maternity Services is an outstanding ensemble of professionals and community advocates taking on this and other issues affecting birthing families. www.motherfriendly.org I would sure love to see more participation from lactation profesionals in this and similar organizations. As a psychotherapist working nearly daily with women recovering from traumatic childbirth, I am trying to coax my corner of the world - perinatal mental health professionals - on board as well. Am I the only one with my "knickers in a twist" over this article? Sharon Storton MA, LMFT, CLE Campbell, California, USA *********************************************** 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