Psychology of Childbirth Summary

Learning Objectives

• Understand the spectrum of birth experiences, focusing on authoritative knowledge.

• Explore motivations for freebirth (unassisted birth) among pregnant individuals.

• Discuss the myth of human exceptionalism and its connection to evolutionary storytelling.

• Examine aspects of traditional and indigenous midwifery knowledge.

• Analyze the significance of childbirth rituals and community involvement.

• Reflect on the cultural evolution of knowledge related to childbirth.

Spectrum of Childbirth Experience

• Types of Birth:

  • Scheduled C-section in a hospital

  • Hospital birth with obstetrician

  • Hospital birth with family doctor

  • Birth center with registered midwife

  • Home birth with registered midwife

  • Home birth with traditional birth attendant/doula

  • Freebirth: Unassisted childbirth

Authoritative Knowledge

• Definition: Knowledge that holds validity depending on the setting and participants.

• Examples of Authoritative Knowledge:

  • Hospital setting: Medical knowledge dominates.

  • Home birth with certified midwife: Blend of medical and traditional knowledge.

  • Home birth with traditional birth attendant (TBA): Primarily traditional knowledge.

  • Freebirth: Relies on visceral knowledge (personal instincts).

Motivations for Considering Freebirth

• A 2021 survey in the UK found that 4% of respondents seriously considered freebirthing.

• Demographics: Higher interest among lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, and queer individuals than heterosexuals.

Traditional vs. Indigenous Midwifery

• Traditional Midwifery:

  • Emphasizes low-tech solutions and variability.

  • Examples of rejected medical norms:

  • Duration and pace of labor.

  • Timing on pushing and stages of childbirth.

• Indigenous Midwifery:

  • Focuses on birth as a normal process rather than a medical procedure.

  • Aims to regenerate strong Indigenous families by fostering home births.

The Role of Community in Childbirth

• Common practice: Involvement of others (besides mother and child) during childbirth across cultures.

• Cultural disparities: While some cultures idealize unassisted birth, others incorporate community assistance for safety and bonding.

The Birth Paradox

• Scientific research highlights the importance of oxytocin and conditions of privacy, quiet, and seclusion for successful births.

• Despite this, many cultures have customs that diminish these essential conditions—creating a paradox.

Theories on Community Involvement

1. Provides mechanical assistance improving birth safety (increased survival rates).

2. Fosters bonds between the newborn and assisting community members (additional support).

3. May create distance between mother and infant beneficial for group survival.

Conclusion

• Childbirth is complex and multifaceted, with no straightforward answers.

• Key consideration: What type of birth experience do you desire?