Reading this article made me think of the comments I received during my pregnancy. Luckily, I was able to avoid much of the negativity I could have received by virtue of the fact that I had the luxury of being a SAHM-in-training during the second half of my pregnancy. I was called crazy quite a bit, and I STILL get comments about how crazy I am for having a natural birth. Since giving birth, I have come across this attitude that there are women out there that hope that those planning a natural birth will "fail." I use that word because I hear that's what it feels like when your natural birthing hopes are dashed. Women feel like they failed-like their bodies betrayed them, etc. It seems like people get a really sick glee from hospital transfer home births. Why? Why is Schadenfreude so rampant in something like BIRTH where women need all the love and support they can get to make labor and delivery the most wonderful and awesome experience possible?
Now I am a new mother. I am trying to follow my heart and instincts to raise a happy, healthy baby. Again, why are women so mean to each other about parenthood. I would hope that, no matter what "method" we use, we are doing our absolute best. I know some people are only trying to help by sharing their experience and wisdom, but try to do it with love and sensitivity. You know when you're being a judgmental jerk. I know I've been guilty of the very same thing, so I am sorry to anyone that may have been hurt by my comments. This, this, and this article really spoke to my heart, and I heard my voice in her words. I am going to do my very best to stop being a judgmental jerk and treat all the mommies I know with the love and sensitivity that I wish came my way! Forgive me if it takes awhile-I am and will always be a work in progress.
I so agree. My first three children were planned natural births in a hospital. My first child I was too scared of an epidural. My next two were born so quickly that an epidural wouldn't have even been possible. And my last birth after much consideration with my dr. 3 nurses, and husband I choose to have an epidural. And it's what worked for me. The last thing we need as women is to be so harsh with each other. I'm really working on that one too. Great post! And we need more pics of Lilian she is just adorable :)
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