Women described feeling dehumanised, powerless and violated. Some experienced psychological and emotional abuse, while others were threatened and yelled at.
Epidurals deliver nerve-blocking drugs into the back for pain relief during labour and after surgeries. Epidural kits are currently in short supply, with their use prioritised for obstetric patients.
The mental health of mothers has important implications for children and families.
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Compared to women who give birth in a birth centre, those who give birth in hospitals are much more likely to have interventions – from epidurals, to labour augmentation and caesarean deliveries.
Pregnant women waiting to see a doctor at a hospital in Uganda.
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A routine childbirth proves expensive and complicated. Insurance company adjustments, inconsistent billing and mystery costs flummoxed even a health policy expert and his wife, a teacher.
By the time they turn one, half of Australian babies have had a course of antibiotics.
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There may be additional long-term health harms from antibiotic exposure in early life and before birth, including an increased risk of infection, obesity and asthma.
Intervention will sometimes be required in childbirth, but should only occur when medically necessary.
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Our study found babies born via medical or surgical intervention were at increased risk of health problems, from jaundice and feeding issues, to diabetes, respiratory infections and eczema.
The most important thing is to keep the baby warm – put her on your chest covered with a warm towel.
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The particular makeup of a newborn’s gut microbes is important as it has been shown to affect their risk of developing certain diseases later in childhood and adulthood.
The exact composition of each person’s microbiota is as unique as their finger prints.
The Conversation