Why is a natural process so often treated as a medical problem?
Childbirth has always carried risks, but have we become too scared of it? On Sunday 7th March, mothers and midwives will be marching on Whitehall in support of The Albany Midwives, an independent practice specialising in home births. It had its contract with the NHS terminated over safety concerns, despite being heralded by many as a model for childbirth. So why is a natural process so often treated as a medical problem? Does fear of litigation mean we are more risk-averse than ever? And whose risk is it is anyway? Jenni speaks to Consultant Obstetrician Pat O’Brien and Annie Francis, an independent midwife. |
