On Saturday I dragged my growing belly to the Birth Forward seminar because no matter how much I wanted to put my feet up and take advantage of the fact that Georgie was spending the afternoon with his dad, I really wanted to see what this little community was doing for pregnant ladies in Cyprus.
I, along with many, are disgusted by the fact that we -Cyprus- have the highest rate of Caesarean Sections in Europe. It’s 52%, in case you were wondering, so you could say it was about time someone stood up and questioned this alarming fact.
For two hours I listened to facts given by a gynecologist, a physiotherapist, a doula and two mothers who experienced birthing in two very different ways. Here are 10 main points I picked up at the Birth Forward seminar:
1. We need to make informed choices about our pregnancy and birth.
2. We need to know that a c-section IS an option.
3. Ask our doctor what his/her c-section rate is.
4. We DO need and should have a birth plan.
5. We should also have a great support team.
6. Hire a doula if possible.
7. Know that giving birth on your back is not natural.
8. We should embrace the conscious use of technology.
9. Sometimes an epidural is needed and its ok.
10. You have every right to have the labour that you want.
If you want to know more or if you feel you need support during your pregnancy and labour or even if you want to see a change in the birthing culture in Cyprus check out Birth Forward and get involved!
