Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
I didn't need a C-section, however, and was still searching for alternatives. It got
to the point, however, that it was too late to book the labor anywhere, and the hospit-
als said that they they were full. So, in the end, I decided that I would call Amcare
when I went into labor, and if they wouldn't accept me I would call American-Sino,
if no again, then Mary's Hospital and the various others I knew of. If I still was not
lucky, then I would just go to the local hospital near my home. I was lucky, however;
when my water broke, we called Amcare and they said to come over. We arrived
there after midnight and it took about one hour for all the necessary tests for admis-
sion. The biggest surprise was they said that since the water had already broken, I
couldn't get up from the bed, and I had planned to do a lot of walking to speed up the
process.
Finally after everyone left, I was able to sleep, but then the contractions started.
One hour later they took me to the delivery room, which was the same but a floor
higher, strapped me to the monitor and tried to give me IV, but I refused. They said
that everyone needed oxytocin (Pitocin), that this was the protocol. I was firm and
said that if anything went wrong I would give them whatever they needed, but at this
point I was taking responsibility for this. They also offered me an epidural, which
I also refused. So then for the remainder of the time it was just waiting. Their sup-
port ended with my refusal for medical intervention. The whole crowd of doctors and
nurses were just waiting for the push stage. In Sweden, it is just two midwives who
are with you, and they try to give a lot of emotional support, massage, simple things
that make you relaxed and comfortable. None of that exists here. It is nice to have
your husband next to you, otherwise this part would be difficult to survive.
In Sweden, when the baby is coming they heat the room and lower the lights,
which altogether creates a nice smooth transition for the baby and the feeling of a
miracle happening. Here, you never forget you are in hospital.
They have never pushed in any way for a C-section. The delivery was pretty fast
and they guided it well. They handled the baby well, but just because there are so
many people in the delivery room, they do everything really fast. So if you do or
don't want something to be done to your baby, you have to tell them this in advance
as they may not ask you because it's just such a routine for them.
They all knew it was my second baby, so after the birth, they quickly left us alone
without pushing water, formula, or any unusual advice.
