I want you to know what my approach to childbirth is based on, so here are some of my beliefs...

• I believe that “Children are a gift of the Lord. The fruit of the womb is a great reward.” (Psalm 127:3)

   

• I believe that childbirth is a natural event, not a medical procedure.

   

• I believe that when parents are properly educated and prepared for childbirth, it can be a wonderful experience-of-a-lifetime for them, binding them closer together as a couple and a family. I recommend the Bradley Method ®.

   

• I believe in the parents’ right to choose the caregiver and place of care to birth their baby, whether it be with a midwife or a physician, and whether it is in their own home, in a birth center, or in a hospital.

   

• I believe that when parents are given accurate information, the vast majority of them are capable of making the best decisions regarding the circumstances for the birth of their children.

   

• I believe that proper nutrition during pregnancy, including appropriate nutritional supplements, is vital for the health of the mom and her baby.

   

• I believe that, for a vast majority of pregnancies and births, medical intervention is entirely inappropriate, and may result in unnecessary complications for moms and babies.

   

• I believe that most episiotomies and most cesarean sections are unnecessary. Situations may arise requiring these interventions, but they should be very rare.

   

• I believe that there is a tremendous need for excellent doctors and hospitals. I am not “anti-doctor” or “anti-hospital.” I am thankful for wise, sensitive doctors and hospitals. I never hesitate to refer to a physician or to transport to a hospital when necessary.

   

• I believe that the baby growing in the mother’s womb is a human child. No matter what the circumstances are outside the womb, I do not believe that the baby deserves to die for it. I am pro-life. However, I believe that moms who may have made mistakes in the past need grace and compassion, not condemnation.

~Dotti Kirkpatrick