A Timely Birth

Here is a great article on the EDDs in pregnancy from Midwifery today.

Taken from the article on induction: But induction of labor causes so many problems that it should be a rarity, performed only when the benefits can be proven to outweigh the risks. Induction multiplies the risk of cesarean section, forceps-assisted delivery, shoulder dystocia, hemorrhage, fetal distress and meconium aspiration. It is a major contributor to birth-related expenses and complications in the US. Yet it is so common that we almost think of it as normal. More than a third of American women were induced in 1999, and another third had labors augmented with Pitocin. (The FDA says that this is the lowest estimate and that the true incidence of induction is "widely under-reported.")

This article goes on to talk about the risks of premature birth, the role of inductions (watch video), increased risks with induction, and the relatively unfounded worries of postdated babies. As the article states, induction is being used FAR TOO OFTEN for women with small risk, but the introduction of pitocin causes much higher risk than what was originally feared, and therefore, seems to be actively causing more danger to mother and child than if they were left alone. This is why I teach and push my students and clients toward an evidence-based medicine model of care, and birth team.

I really think this article gives priority to evidence based medicine, as well as talking plainly about the complicated topic of postdatism, which can be hard to get an answer on. Even the link I've used here considers 37 weeks postdate, of which it is not. It is simply past the general medical idea of 'term', which any professional will tell you is just a guess. HAppily, this article first lists that the EDD might be wrong, and second lists the nonsense!

Thank you Midwifery today-- a fine media outlet, promoting what's best for women and their babes.