Epidurals have become synonymous with childbirth relief for a significant portion of expectant mothers in America—nearly 75% of women utilize this method during labor. The choice is steeped in practicality; epidurals provide a much-needed respite from the intense pain associated with labor without drastically impacting a woman’s consciousness. Dr. Sarah Bjorkman, an obstetrician-gynecologist and advisor
birth plan
In 2013, Mimi Evans faced a life-altering decision as she prepared for the birth of her third child. Unwilling to endure the same exhausting hospital experience she had previously faced in Texas, Evans took matters into her own hands, embarking on a remarkable 1,300-mile journey in an RV to access a more supportive birthing environment.
As a soon-to-be mother with a physical disability, I faced a complex decision regarding how to bring my baby into the world. After extensive discussions with my healthcare team about the pros and cons of both vaginal delivery and planned C-section, I devoted significant time to research. Authors such as those behind “The Essential C-Section
Recent studies, including a stark 2023 report by the CDC, reveal a troubling reality: 20% of women report experiences of mistreatment during labor. These reported incidents range from outright negligence to psychological undermining in the form of verbal attacks and emotional dismissiveness. Such experiences highlight a pervasive issue within maternity care that must be addressed