On October 13, 2008 I witnessed my first and so far only birth. My sister gave birth to a 7lb 13 oz baby boy at 7:13 p.m. The birth took place at a hospital with medical professionals. I waited at the hospital for hours to see my younger sister give birth. As soon as I left the room to go to the cafeteria, I got a call that I needed to get back to the room because he was coming. I dropped my food and rushed to the elevator. Thankfully, I made it in time to see him enter the world. He was very peaceful and did not cry immediately. (That didn't last for long.) After his mother and father held him they gave him to me. Today my nephew and I have a special relationship, and I believe it's because I was able to bond with him in those moments after his birth.
It is for this reason that I think the birthing process has an impact on child development. A baby begins to form a bond with his or her family instantly. These early interactions will go on to impact how the child responds to others in social situations like school. The healthy birth of a child also has biosocial implications. Physically, everyone wants to ensure that a healthy baby is delivered. Conditions such as Anoxia (lack of oxygen at birth) can affect brain development and impair learning later on in life.
The significance of the birthing process can further be seen when studying it in other countries. In parts of Indonesia a majority of women have their babies at home. The only assistance they have is through a Traditional Birth Attendant (TBA). The TBA has no professional medical training. They provide the women with herbal drinks and recite prayers during labor. They simply tell the women to push when they feel pain. Because of their lack of medical training many women and their babies die during delivery. UNICEF and other organizations have programs that educate expecting mothers and provide them with places to give birth where trained workers assist them. Although these programs have helped many women and babies, there is still more work to be done.
These birthing experiences are completely different. One was at a hospital with trained medical professionals, while the other took place in a home with a TBA. The births in Indonesia show me how serious the birthing process is and that it is truly a miracle. I believe that many Americans take the birthing process for granted because we see so many successful births. However, for women in other countries they actually fear the process because they know how serious it is and the dangers that come with it. Having a successful delivery and a healthy baby is truly a blessing.
I hope that you LEARNED from what I SHARED about the birthing process, and from that knowledge you will GROW!
For more information on births in Indonesia and what UNICEF is doing to help click on the link below:
http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/indonesia_43515.html
Krista,
ReplyDeleteI agree that the bond right after birth is something special. It warms my heart that you were able to spend that time with you sister and nephew. When children have a connection to their families, they have a support system that will be with them throughout their life. I had not thought much about taking the birthing process for granted, but I see your point. I have a child care parent that is expecting their second child right now. The fact that she has prenatal care, quality food, save water to drink, and a hospital that can deal with complications that arise during childbirth give everyone a sense of peace regarding the health of the baby. Women in other countries have fears while they are pregnant for both themselves and their children.
Rhonda
Hi Krista, the birthing process, is such a wonderful experience to be apart of. I have the same bond with my nephew, and I know its because I was right there when he came into the world. We both have experience that we will treasure forever. The process in Indonesia you shared was very informative, and I have GROWNED!
ReplyDeleteThanks
Andrea
Hi Krista,
ReplyDeleteHow very special that you were there for your nephew's birth. I'm sure your sister appreciated the extra support only a sister can give.
I LEARNED from the information you shared on birthing in Indonesia. I agree, we in the United States do take for granted how fortunate we are. I have a friend who did missionary work in Guatemala. She and her husband had their first child during their time there. She managed but when she had her second child after returning to the U.S., she was really appreciated being in a modern hospital.
Hi Krista,
ReplyDeleteLike your sister, the births of my 3 children were in a modern hospital with trained professionals. There care and expertise during prenatal development allowed my husband and I to feel confident and safe during our births, which lessoned stress during this critical time of development. Unfortunately, from you sharing of births in Indonesia and other colleagues examples, children are not given positive interactions from the start. Culture also plays a part in how generations continue in similar manners. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Krista,
ReplyDeleteI had the experience of witnessing the birth of my cousin who is now 4 and can't grasp the concept that I am her cousin. Just like the bond that you have with your nephew, I have with my cousin and she affectionally knows and calls me "my Tria."
Thanks for sharing your story.
Anetria