Internet TV interview

Here is a link to my interview on the Dr. Cassie Show on local KADY TV here in Ventura, CA. Dr. Cassie does great work with children and for the community and it was an honor to be a guest on her show. Check out what's happening with her at The Children's Therapy Network. Having good prenatal care and a nurturing birth will get babies off to a good start. Dr. F

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/9737013

First Waterbirth

Well, I am happy to announce I had the privilege of assisting on my first home birth in water. After 27 years of the lithotomy position it was really enlightening to experience another way. I was honored to be present for the birth of Eva and want to thank her parents for their trust. I also want to thank Karni and all my midwife and birthing advocate colleagues for their support during this transition. It seems the demand for information and alternatives to hospital birthing is growing. I am getting quite a few inquiries from women looking into all options. It feels really good to give them an open and honest discussion about choices. I have been contacted by women with previous c/sections, twins, breeches and medical issues. All seeking just an honest discussion about risks and benefits of their individual situation. It is with great respect that I thank those of you who send potential clients my way. While out of hospital birthing is not for everyone, the choice of how and where to give birth belongs to the woman and her family. All good things, Dr. F

C-section rates higher at for-profit hospitals

From todays San Francisco Chronicle. This link below was sent to me by Brian Gilmore of Rumi Baby.
Looking only at low risk birth, women were 17% more likely to have a c/section at a for profit hospital than at a non-profit one. Each of us can draw our own conclusions but knowing what we know about what motivates many hospitals and physicians these days it is not surprising. In 2008, our practice in Camarillo at The Woman's Place had a 6% primary c/section rate compared to a greater than 20% primary rate at our local hospital overall in low risk women. I believe the difference is using the midwifery model vs. the obstetrical model for labor management.
This information has to rely on reporting of birth rates and methods by each institution. This may raise some question about honesty in reporting. I suspect the data comes from birth records so there is likely to be some credibility here. Just another reason pregnant women need to be educated and informed of choices, benefits and risks so keep spreading the word to your clients, family and friends.

Thanks, Dr F

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/09/12/MNSS1FA3LH.DTL&feed=rss.news