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#1: labor begins on its own
1I na M ay G askin is a certified professional midwife. She founded the Farm Midwifery Center near Summertown, Tennessee, more than three decades ago, and is the author of Spiritual Midwifery and Ina May's Guide to Childbirth.
The Journal of Perinatal Education
|February 3, 2007
Summary
Allowing labor to begin naturally is an evidence-based practice supporting normal birth. Induction of labor should be avoided unless medically necessary, according to Lamaze International.
Area of Science:
- Maternity Care Practices
- Obstetrics
- Normal Birth Advocacy
Background:
- The Lamaze International position paper advocates for supporting normal birth.
- Induction of labor is a common intervention with potential risks.
- Childbearing women and families are the primary audience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present allowing labor to begin spontaneously as an evidence-based practice.
- To highlight the benefits of spontaneous labor for promoting, protecting, and supporting normal birth.
- To discuss the disadvantages, indications, and risks associated with labor induction.
Main Methods:
- This paper is a position paper, one of six care practice papers from Lamaze International.
- It synthesizes existing evidence on spontaneous labor and labor induction.
- Commentary from a home-birth midwife provides additional evidence and perspectives.
Main Results:
- Allowing labor to begin on its own is presented as a key practice for normal birth.
- Evidence suggests disadvantages to inducing labor without medical necessity.
- Risks and indications for induction are explored.
Conclusions:
- Lamaze International recommends allowing labor to commence spontaneously unless a medical indication for induction exists.
- Supporting spontaneous labor is crucial for promoting positive birth experiences.
- Informed decision-making regarding labor induction is essential for maternal and infant well-being.
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