Isn't it wonderful to see all of this discussion from such spirited and intelligent women. It's fabulous.

I am confused Catherine and I will say offended. I am a huge advocate of women's choice. I am very very pro choice. However, I lament when choice is not evidence based. Because often when it's not, when a decision is made that the woman does not feel in control of, or understanding of there is often much struggle afterward.

You are saying c/section is best for you and others are saying that wasn't their experience. Why is that a problem? These women have every right to convey their feelings about their birth. If you choose to feel it's about you then that's your journey. But we can't put a lid on peoples experiences so others dont' feel put out. I have had great fanny births but that doesn't mean I would never choose c/section if it was necessary. Or an induction. And, it would never enter my consciousness that I would be judged for it. Goodness me. But I do know what it's like to be judged for my birth choices... When you birth in water, at home, with other children present, no obs, candles, co sleeping, demand feeding, extended breastfeeding, tandem feeding... the list goes on. Some folk find that foolhardy. Folk who don't know the stats, the who recommendations... So judgement I do know about. So, to be accused of judging another woman for her choice is hurtful to me. But perhaps that's my hormones, my sinus infection and the time of day...

Kiera: I too must have misunderstood your post. I thought you were asking why people had opinions. So, I offered why it was so from my perspective. I didn't understand that wasn't the question... I hope your birth is all you hope for and you have a great experience.

I just want to reiterate. I said it in my first post but I want to say it again. I completely understand why women choose a c/section. Psychological reasons for c/section are very real and great. I have a great many friends here on BB and in RL who would consider a c/section due to experiences losing a child, sexual assault, birth trauma etc. They are real reasons. I want that to be heard. Its quite irrelevant if I think they are valid reasons, they are valid for that person, for that birth. I would walk over glass to support a woman through that experience (and I have ).

If a woman chooses a c/section that's her choice. Many of these women didn't choose a c/section. They did not have the birth they wanted and they feel pain around that. That is valid and real.

This is always a hot topic. I am not sure precisely why. It seems that folk find it hard to own their choice. I know of one gutsy lady here on bB that chose c/section and had her own midwife. She had the birth of her choice. It was informed and what she wanted. I am certain she felt empowered and LARGE. She didn't have regrets. It was an informed choice. I didn't want to mention names...

Flea and the other Mamas are saying that they feel they didn't have that choice. I hear that and I am so sorry...

So, please don't throw around blanket statements about women not supporting each other. WE need to hear each others stories, if someone doesn't want to do that then don't read the post, but don't stop the process of learning and hearing and healing that comes with discussion .... please. We all deserve to be heard. I learn something new each time I read a post. That is a wonderful thing.