Why I Opted for Alternative Care

My first child, Victoria (2½ yrs old) was born 2 weeks after her due date by c-section (caesarean section) after an induction and being told my pelvic bones were too tight. I know today that I wasn't well informed of all my options and I made a promise to myself, that I would take charge of my next pregnancy.

At 30 weeks pregnant with my second daughter Lucille (8 months today), I switched from seeing an obstetrician to seeking help in alternative care. Many doors opened up to me at that moment. I started consulting Dr. Kelly Norman – chiropractor for some pelvic adjustments, Geneviève Gagnon, Térèsa Bandrowska and Diane Parkin – midwives, Dr. Colleen McQuarrie – naturopath for some acupuncture, homeopathy and herbal supplements.

After 24 hours of drug free/ at-home active labour with our midwife, the progress stopped at 7 cm so we decided to go to the hospital to try an epidural as I was exhausted. The anaesthesiologist was no where to be found for 2 hours and eventually I started to panic. My baby's heart beat increased rapidly, and so I was encouraged to consider an emergency c-section. I truly believe that being in a hospital scared me, making it more difficult for me to envision anything other than another c-section.

Even though I ended up with another c-section, the experience was the total opposite of my first daughter's birth. Preparing the birth of my second child was very empowering and still today, I seek alternative care for my family. I encourage every woman to inform themselves as much as possible and understand all the benefits of a more natural approach to pregnancy and birth. It's not only healthier for the body, but it is also for the mind.

(submitted by Julie F.)