Are most doctors supportive of natural births?

Question

I am planning a natural birth, and from what I've heard, most doctors really push epidurals/meds.

If it more of a pain in the butt for them if the woman chooses not to use medicine?

From what I've heard, med-free births usually progress faster.

Obviously, I know she can't MAKE me get an epidural.

But I'm just wondering if it's annoying for them when women plan a natural birth?

I know I have to discuss it with her ahead of time, but I'm nervous that she's not going to take me seriously. Know what I mean?

Answer 1

I don't know if doctors push epidurals or not but I think the reason they would tell you more about them is because A LOT of women want an all natural birth but half way into decide they want an epidural. it doesn't make them weak or 'less of a woman' it's just a decision.

Answer 2

My doctors say they are supportive of natural birth, but I have my doubts (b/c one made a comment like "You don't get a medal for doing it naturally.  It doesn't make you a better mom.")  I just watched this movie, "The Business of Being Born" and their perspective is that doctors push medical intervention, including drugs and c-sections, out of their own convenience.  I strongly recommend the movie.  I got it at the local library.  http://www.thebusinessofbeingborn.com/

Answer 3

It depends on the doctor, most push for meds and some will leave you be.

I was pushed for meds, it can be really annoying when you are in labor for them to keep pushing them.

Answer 4

All doctors are, of course different, but you would probably be more interested in the attitudes of the nurses. It's the nurses who spend the most time with you and yes, some nurses prefer you to have an epidural, since it makes THEIR job much easier.

But, as you say, nobody can make you have meds if you don't want them, and if your doctor is dubious or ridicules your desires -- you might want to seek out a better doctor, or a midwife. (While no-one can make you have meds, it can be much harder to have an unmedicated birth if the nurses are asking you every 10 minutes if you're SURE you don't want that epidural now ... and reminding you that 'you don't have to a martyr you know.'

Answer 5

It doesn't really matter what the doctors and nurses want you to do or think as long as your delivery is running smoothly and the baby is ok.  It's your choice.  From what I've found with my deliveries is that I go in wanting to be brave and then I can't hang at some point in time and give in.  My doctors usually offered me other less serious drugs first before getting me my epidural though so when it's your time, don't think that that (epidural) is the only thing they have to offer.  Epidurals can have some serious side effects that can last a lot longer than the delivery itself.  I've had 3 children- two with and one without.  Personally, I like being pain free more.  LOL!

Answer 6

I had my 3 natural with no medication. Doctors and nurses do push for epidural I think because it will make you quiet and they can leave you alone.  It's annoying for me to have to be asked a million times are you sure you don't want an epidural over and over again. Too bad it's annoying to them it's your choice.  

Answer 7

I switched from a doctor to a midwife at 27 weeks because my doc told me that they "strongly" advise an epidural when I told her I wanted a natural birth.  If you would like a true natural birth I would suggest that you find a midwife, most work under an OBGYN and delvier at hospitals....thats what my midwife did and I couldn't have been happier with my births...

BTW I am in the US....

Answer 8

Yes because about 70% of woman get epidurals nowadays...and doctors are used to it. Just take the information about it and learn what you can about the procedure just in case things don't go as planned. I comment you for the natural birth! I'm planning on it too. Just discuss it with your doctor and ask her tons of questions about it just to make sure she knows your wishes. Also I would suggest making a birth plan up and taking it with you and giving it to the doctor and bringing some to the hospital when you go into labor to give to the nurses. They will have to respect your wishes! Good Luck, if your doctor doesn't take you seriously, then find a different one or get a midwife!