If you spend any amount of time in the internet birth forums, you will find that there are several opinions about the best way to give birth. If you have any special circumstances, say VBAC for example, you can add another 100 opinions to that list! Everyone claims to be the authority on the matters of birth, so who do you trust? Well, I am here to tell you that I am the internet authority on birth! And you know what? So are you!
In this day and age, the access to evidence based information on everything from optimal fetal positioning down to the chemical composition of human breast milk is just one click away. You just have to know where to look and have the to patience find out! There are many reputable sources available. Take the time to educate yourself and read through the information so when someone snidely asks you, “Who made you the authority on birth?” you can confidently reply, “I did!”
One word of caution. If you find yourself in a forum where only one voice, one opinion, one viewpoint is allowed to be heard, there are a few different avenues of action you can take:
Stay and drink the Kool-Aid
You may find yourself right at home with the views of the group and agree on all accounts and you will undoubtedly be welcomed into the fold.
Rage against the machine
State your opposing opinion, which, depending on the group, you may find that aforementioned welcome is non-existent and you can leave or be booted out.
Keep the best and leave the rest
These, in my opinion, are the best groups; the ones from which you learn the most. An even exchange of agreement and disagreement is encouraged and usually, somewhere between the absolutes lies the truth.
Good luck on your journey!
For more information about how A Beautiful Creation Doula can help, visit my website today!
Jennifer Rivera Atlanta Doula 