Expectant mothers are frequently completely uninformed
«In Greek, the verb ‘to give birth’ (gennao) is active but it has become passive,» said KalliopI Malfa, the president of the Scientific Association of Midwives in Athens. «There has been an increase in Caesarean sections in Greece, and it is much higher than in other countries. It’s likely that it is the doctor’s choice.» According to Malfa, physicians prefer Caesarean section as it is quicker, and new doctors are more familiar with this method and they feel more secure. In the event of court proceedings, they could lose everything if the birth is unsuccessful. Greek women also share a part of the blame: If they wanted to give birth naturally, the doctors would comply. They are completely uninformed and go like lambs to the slaughter. They are not aware that half of the children born naturally have the umbilical cord wound around them. The mortality rate for Caesarean sections is 3.6 percent higher than in natural deliveries. Malfa also thinks it is fashionable to give birth by Caesarean section. «Many women would like to have the baby brought to their home and not have to do anything,» she said. «When a midwife, who has also monitored the pregnancy, is present at birth the chance of C-section is lower (15 percent). The midwife helps to prepare the mother-to-be for labor. The way in which a woman gives birth determines to a great extent her relationship with the baby. In addition, when a baby is born naturally, it gets germs from its mother that are a kind of dowry. In a C-section, the baby gets germs from the environment that are unfriendly to its body. The procedure of natural birth helps the child to come out as a winner. In a C-section the baby comes out into the air suddenly without being prepared by the contractions of the womb.» Malfa reassures Greek mothers-to-be that there is nothing to be afraid of. Nature protects the new body. «It is important to have trust in the baby you have inside you. It is a wonderful sensation to give life. It is a pity more women don’t choose to do so.»
