About my Daughter's Birth and Haitian Birth Practices

In February 2007 I discovered, to my amazement, that I was pregnant!  I had been diagnosed with Poly-Cystic Ovarian Syndrome in 2005, and told that without medical intervention, conception would be difficult.  We had no medical intervention, so following eight (yes, I wanted to be sure!) pregnancy tests, the revealed pink lines made me want to shout for joy! 

I had a normal pregnancy, with little complication.  I did have some high blood pressure, but it was controlled.  Morning sickness faded at 12 weeks, and overall, it was an easy pregnancy.

Because I had high blood pressure, I was monitored closely.  At my last ultrasound, it was clear that my baby was not turning, even though I had started dilating.  She was breech.  We discussed options at that time, and it seemed that a Caesarean Section (C-Section) was imminent.  I was disappointed because I wanted to give birth the more traditional way.  When I went in to the hospital on October 11, another ultrasound was performed.  My daughter, Hope, had not turned.  I knew that a C-Section was the best course. 

I was prepped and had a spinal block.  I’m not sure what medicine I was given, but it caused me to be a little groggy and forgetful!  My husband was right there with me, holding my hand! I was so amazed that in less than ten minutes, our daughter was delivered.  I remember when the doctor said, “She’s here!”  I waited to her cry! When she did, I remember shedding tears of joy as well.  I remember her having the post-delivery routine infant tests.  I remember when they laid her on my chest.  I was not in pain, and I was so amazed at this beautiful person that I had been blessed by God to care for!  

What I do not really remember is the “ride” to the hospital room in the hospital bed following delivery.  I remember a few days after Hope’s birth saying, “But how did she make it to the room?”  My husband laughed and said, “She was on your chest, you held her the whole way!”  I do remember being surrounded by friends and family on this joyous occasion and everyone helping me in the days following her birth.  My recovery was really not as difficult as I had envisioned.  I was supported by family and friends and this helped me get the rest I needed and regain my stamina. 

This was a beautiful day in our life, and I hope that someday, Lord willing, I can have more children!   

I researched birthing practices in Haiti to compare and contrast them with my experiences.  Unless a problem is suspected, prenatal care from a physician is not a priority. I found that babies are usually born at home and that a midwife is used to help with the birth.  Fathers are not usually part of the process. Usually, pain medication is not used for labor and delivery.  Following the birth, and for a month, baby and mother restrict involvement with others to prevent illness. To research another culture has been enlightening. 

Reference about birth practices in Haiti: http://www.salisbury.edu/nursing/haitiancultcomp/preg_and_childbear_prac.htm