The “Giving Voice to Mothers Study” only further ignites my excitement to be named Co-Chair of the new International Childbirth Initiative (ICI). The International MotherBaby Childbirth Organization (IMBCO) and the Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) have joined forces developing a single global initiative to provide guidance and support for safe and respectful maternity care, building upon their previous work and incorporating the most recent evidence and insights into what constitutes optimal maternal and newborn health. The Initiative is endorsed by leading birth organizations around the world, and includes “12 Steps to Safe and Respectful MotherBaby-Family Maternity Care.”
Our 12 steps are moving us in the direction to end mistreatment in childbirth.
But I won’t stop there – birth can be so much more, and even a day that can be Orgasmic! One way to combat disrespect in birth is to find a provider that endorses in the ICI and provides as Ibu Robin Lim says, “prenatal care, not prenatal scare!” Share more of my tips for a respectful, pleasurable birth with your friends and colleagues by encouraging them to join my mailing list.