I have often heard expectant mothers and fathers say that they like their heath care provider because she/he speaks “straight forward” and “gets right to the point.”

I also appreciate a health care provider that tells me the truth, whether or not it will sting.  I want to know what they believe is going on in my body and what they believe will help me to heal.  I want them to speak to me intelligently and with the expectation that I can understand basic medical information.  I appreciate when they take the time to explain what I don’t understand without patronizing me.

Expectant couples may confuse the tenderly presented truth as only half truth or rosy colored truth.  My midwife, Melissa, presented truth in a clear and caring manner without coddling me.  She was under control before during and after labor and spoke straight forward without fear tactics.  Her calm and loving voice was comforting.  I appreciate her honesty and her care for me as a strong yet fragile woman.

If there was ever a time in a woman’s life that she needs information about her body and her health it is during her pregnancy cycle.  If there was ever a time that a woman needs tenderness and a gentle yet  honest voice, it is during her pregnancy cycle.

I have come across many “straight” talking ob-gyn doctors and midwives that will talk right through an unnecessary cesarean section.  The patient is then under the impression that because some information is provided in a clear manner that they must move forward with a cesarean.  I would beg to differ.

I believe that information provided in the heat of the moment, when only one clear “safe” option is provided is misinformation.  The best education that an expectant couple can receive is before the hour of desperation.  Prenatal education can prepare the expectant couple for many safe options.

Education is knowing ways to prevent episiotomy by healthy lifestyle and movement during labor.

Education is knowing that only 9-11% of births necessitate a cesarean section. Not 33%. Not 48%.

Education is knowing that water and food during labor give mother strength to birth safely and comfortably.

Education is knowing how to turn a breech baby.

Education is understanding the risk involved with induction.

Education is knowing that epidurals make it difficult to feel the baby and difficult to push.

Education is knowing that birth can be fun, exciting, painful and pleasant.

Education can be presented honestly, yet gently with regard to an expectant mother’s emotional state as well as the physical happenings within her body.  A caring and gentle voice can also present “straight forward” information.

To register for a prenatal class that will present information honestly and gently go to baby-moon.org and check out the class calendar.