In the world of pregnancy, birth and parenting, 2011 was a mixed bag.  There was some good news, some strides forward in mother and baby friendly care.  There were also some steps backward and areas that still need radical improvements.  Here are the top pregnancy news stories of 2011, from a midwife’s perspective.

Early inductions are being banned in some hospitals. We have become a
quick to induce culture, but with this trend has come poorer outcomes for
babies. There is a reason why there is the word “estimated” in your due
date. It is not an exact science and a baby that you think is 38 weeks may
only be 36.

Cesarean rates by state. This is unfortunately some grim news. In most
states the rates have increased. And what the heck is going on in Puerto
Rico?  With the WHO recommending a rate of 10-15%, we have a long way to go here.

Rhode Island bans free formula in hospitals. This is so important, although at first glance, it may seem an overreaction. The World Health Organization recommends no free formula for countries that want to support breastfeeding.

Mother Robin wins CNN Hero of the Year. This is amazing news for
midwives worldwide. Her work in Indonesia to provide maternity care to
a hugely underserved population is inspiring. The fact that a traditionally
trained midwife (she’s a CPM!) was recognized with such honor brings
respect to all midwives.

A British study shows that over 50% of all women could give birth safely
at home. After determinging that, for low-risk women, home birth was as
safe as hospital birth, it was determined that women should have a choice
in where they give birth. If only the American medical community was as
evidence based.

An American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists study shows that
less than 2/3rd of all clinical guidelines are not based in science. What
does this mean? It means that a majority of the practices that happen in
hospital births have no basis in fact. That continual fetal monitoring that
keeps you trapped in bed? You may be surprised to know that it doesn’t
actually improve fetal outcomes at all.

My suggestions for pregnant women are still the same in 2011 as they were in years past:  educated yourself!  Know what the facts are, not just what someone’s opinion is.  Question your healthcare providers – no matter who they are.  Ask them why – a lot.  Find out the reasoning behind their recommendations and know that you are the consumer and they are working for you.

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