Natural Childbirth OBGYN

Natural Childbirth: A Personal Choice

In recent years, the concept of natural childbirth has been making a resurgence, with more expectant parents exploring this approach to labor and delivery. Natural childbirth reflects a growing desire for a holistic, unmedicated, and personalized birthing experience – without unnecessary medical interventions whenever possible.

Of course, a natural childbirth experience does not preclude the use of advanced medical technologies when necessary for the health and safety of the mother or the child.

In this article, Dr. Chadi Haddad, MD and midwife Lucy Schoemer, DNP in Dearborn, MI will explore the fundamentals of natural childbirth, its advantages, and the crucial role played by midwives under the supervision of an OBGYN in supporting this choice.

What is Does “Natural” Childbirth Mean?

While the term “natural childbirth” may mean different things to different people, in essence it refers to the process of giving birth without the use of medical interventions or pain-relief medications. It emphasizes the body’s innate ability to go through labor and delivery with minimal interference. Natural childbirth sometimes takes place in settings like birthing centers or homes – but may also take place in a hospital – with a focus on minimal medical intervention, comfort measures other than drugs or anesthetics, and a personalized approach to the birthing experience.

Childbirth is an extremely personal experience – and every woman should be empowered to bring her child into the world under the conditions she desires, in a safe and support environment.

Statistics on the Use of Natural Childbirth

Statistics show a growing preference for natural childbirth among expectant parents. An increasing number of women are opting for this approach, driven by the desire for a more empowering and individualized birthing process.

According to a 2022 survey by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), 44% of pregnant women in the United States said that they were interested in having a natural childbirth (defined as a childbirth that occurs without the use of medical interventions such as epidurals, cesarean sections, or forceps). This is up from 38% in 2011.

The survey also found that 60% of pregnant women said that they were interested in having a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), which is a vaginal birth after a previous cesarean section. This is up from 52% in 2011.

The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) also reports that the number of women choosing to have natural childbirths is increasing. In 2021, 90% of midwife-attended births were vaginal births, and 70% of midwife-attended births were unmedicated vaginal births.

Advantages of Natural Childbirth

The advantages of natural childbirth are diverse and appealing to many parents. This approach facilitates a more active role for the mother during their labor. Natural childbirth may also foster a closer connection between the mother and their newborn, contributing to a unique and intimate bonding experience.

Additionally, natural childbirth without the use of anesthetic may sometimes result in shorter recovery times for mothers, and reduces the risks, side effects, recovery and rare but potential complications that can occasionally arise from the use of anesthetics or other pain relief medications.

Midwives and Natural Childbirth

Nurse midwives play an integral role in supporting natural childbirth. Midwives are known for their expertise in providing holistic care, personalized birthing plans, and ongoing emotional support. They work closely with expectant parents to create a birth plan that aligns with their desires for a natural childbirth experience. Midwives ensure that the birthing environment is both safe and comfortable, as well as conducive to minimal medical intervention.

Natural Childbirth Should be Under the Supervision of an OBGYN

While natural childbirth emphasizes minimal medical intervention, the importance of having an OBGYN overseeing the process cannot be overstated. OBGYNs bring crucial medical expertise and are prepared to intervene in the event of unforeseen complications during childbirth. The collaboration between midwives and OBGYNs provides the best of both worlds, offering personalized care alongside the availability of necessary medical interventions when required.

Natural Childbirth OBGYN & Midwife | Dearborn

Natural childbirth and an unmedicated birthing experience – versus anesthetic during childbirth – is a deeply personal choice.  Dearborn OBGYN Dr. Chadi Haddad, and certified nurse midwife Lucy Schoemer, DNP understand the significance of this choice and are dedicated to empowers expectant parents to have a personalized birthing experience.

If you are interested in exploring the option of natural childbirth, we will support you in your pursuit of a holistic, non-medicated childbirth experience. We will collaborate with you to ensure that you receive the guidance, care, and expertise necessary to make your natural childbirth journey the safe and memorable experience you desire.

Natural Childbirth | Dearborn Area: 313.561.2200