#356 A Look Back at the History of U.S. Childbirth

Birthing Instincts

Blyss responds to a comment about safety and mortality. There will always be disputes about what safety means and to know where we are we need to know where we were. Today Blyss & Dr. Stu look back at childbirth in America over the last 300 years and try to sort through the accomplishments and clarify the statistics.

In an episode that's both a history lesson and a call to action, we reflect on the transformative journey of childbirth practices. Venture through time with us, from the days of home births and midwives to the formalization of hospital deliveries and the controversial medical interventions that followed. We peer into the darker chapters of obstetrics, acknowledging the exploitation that has tainted its history, and celebrate the triumphs that have led to significant declines in maternal and infant mortality rates.

This is a story of advancement and advocacy, of reclaiming agency and acknowledging the past to better navigate the present. Let's continue this dialogue and foster a future where the instincts of birthing and the wisdom of midwifery guide us toward a safer, more empowered experience for all.

Key highlights:

• Birth Choices and Maternal Mortality
• History of Obstetric Interventions
• History of Childbirth Practices in America
• Evolution of Obstetrics and Childbirth
• Declines in Infant Mortality and Interventions
• Maternal and Infant Mortality Trends

Episode resources:

• Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcast
• Article: Changes in childbirth in the United States: 1750–1950
• Book: Witches, Midwives, and Nurses: A History of Women Healers
• CDC Article: Achievements in Public Health, 1900-1999: Healthier Mothers and Babies

This show is supported by:

• LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
• BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program
• Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com/birthinginstincts to get 30% off Christian Hypnobirthing's Faith-Filled Childbirth course

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

• Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
• Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
• Email: [e-mail]
• Call-in line: 805-399-0439
• Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com