The Empowering Experience of the Business of Being Born

Childbirth has always been a topic of great interest, fascination, and concern for both expecting parents and healthcare professionals. While childbirth has been a natural and integral part of human life, it has also been a source of fear, pain, and discomfort for many women. However, with the advent of modern medicine, childbirth began to be seen as a medical procedure that required intervention and medicalization. In recent years, there has been a shift towards a more natural and holistic approach to childbirth, with the documentary film ‘The Business of Being Born’ serving as a catalyst in this direction.

Introduction

Produced by Ricki Lake and directed by Abby Epstein, ‘The Business of Being Born’ is a documentary film that explores the business aspects of childbirth and the medicalization of this natural process. The film provides an in-depth look at the different approaches to childbirth and the benefits of a natural and empowering experience. The documentary features interviews with midwives, obstetricians, doulas, and expecting parents, who share their views and stories regarding childbirth and the birth cultural in the United States.

The Medicalization of Childbirth

One of the primary themes of ‘The Business of Being Born’ is the medicalization of childbirth and how it has impacted the childbirth experience. The film showcases how childbirth has become a business, with hospitals and medical institutions promoting the use of medical interventions and technology even when it is not necessary. The film highlights how modern medicine has created a culture of fear and dependency on medical intervention, with women often feeling disempowered and stripped of their agency during the childbirth process.

Natural Childbirth

The documentary also highlights the benefits of natural childbirth and how it can be an empowering experience for women. The film showcases the use of midwives and doulas, who work with women to develop personalized birthing plans that honor their preferences and beliefs. The film advocates for a more holistic approach to childbirth, where medical intervention is minimized, and women are empowered to trust their bodies’ instincts during the childbirth process.

The Role of Education

One key takeaway from ‘The Business of Being Born’ is the importance of education in empowering women to make informed decisions. The film emphasizes the need for women to be educated about childbirth and the different options available to them. The film highlights the benefits of seeking out information and resources, including the use of birthing classes, midwifery groups, and online forums.