History
In Dec'1997/Jan' 1998 Birthrites: Healing After Caesarean was set
up. We are a group of dedicated women committed to supporting women
who've had a previous caesarean section/s, whether planned or unplanned,
and informing them of their future birth choices/rights.
It started with 7 committed core group members plus over 30 members in total and has now grown to an organisation of over 100 members. The core group meet monthly to discuss our goals and get things "happening" in a positive direction, for specific women's rights, within our local community.
We provide an emotional and physical support network for all women
who've had a previous c/section, and we lobby to reduce the c/section
rate and increase public awareness of the safety of VBAC/EBAC (Vaginal
Birth After Caesarean/Empowered Birth After Caesarean), by promoting
ourselves within the health community.
Everyone is welcome to join Birthrites: Healing After
Caesarean Inc, and if anyone has an urge to help with our
core group they are encouraged to become involved.
Philosophy
"With
knowledge we can make choices that lead to empowerment,
and
healing, through birth."
Women should become informed enough to be able to make
their own birth choices. The decision of whether to have a
VBAC or a repeat c/section should not be made by their
doctor or midwife.
Women should be supported in their decision, and nurtured
throughout their pregnancy towards a positive outcome for
both mother and baby.
Birth needs to be honoured as a sacred event, involving
rituals and respect for the mother's birth choices, allowing
it to become a healing experience.
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