Inclusive Birth: Why "Natural Birth" is a Harmful Term

Assisted reproductive technoligies and c-sections are natural too...

When people talk about "natural birth," they often mean a birth that happens without medical interventions. However, this term can be harmful. It suggests that other forms of birth are somehow unnatural or less valid.

Every birth is natural. Assisted reproductive technologies like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) are medical treatments that help people get pregnant. Some people may also need assistance in carrying a pregnancy through the use of a surrogate. There is nothing "unnatural" about these treatments. It's incredible how commonplace the term "natural" is when discussing both methods of conception and childbirth. This has to stop. It's incredibly stigmatizing. 

The same applies for childbirth. Using the term "natural birth" can create unnecessary pressure and judgment for those who need medical interventions. I have seen so many birthing people harmed by the focus on what is percieved as "natural" compared to "unnatural". A c-section can be have the same magical, spiritual experience as a home birth. Having an epidural does not make someone weak. These ideas are rooted in misogyny. 

There's this unspoken expectation (sometimes even spoken) that as women or birthing people we should be able to get pregnant on demand, carry a pregnancy without complaint, give birth with complete stoicism and then continue on to recover and take care of a newborn with a smile. These expectations are absurd. 

Using inclusive language

We need to change how we talk about birth. Instead of using the term "natural birth," we can use terms like "unmedicated birth" or "birth without interventions." These terms are more specific and less judgmental.

By changing our language, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all birthing experiences. This helps to validate each person's experience, regardless of the methods used.

. Others may feel more comfortable with medical support. Both choices are valid and should be respected.

It is crucial to support people in their choices and provide them with accurate information. This helps them make informed decisions that are best for their unique situation.

Supporting All Birth Experiences

Here at Betula Mental Health we support all types of journies toward building a family. Rarely does the path to having a family look as straightforward as we might hope. We are here to support you whether it's through loss, a challenging fertility journey or a hard postpartum period. We offer services like an IVF and loss support group and medication management to support you in your journey. We can work with your existing team whether that's your fertility doctor or OB to provide collaborative care. Often people are under the false impression that you must stop mental health medications during pregnancy or IVF treatments. This is often not true and we are here to help you understand the risks and benefits associated with these decisions. 

Conclusion

All births are natural, regardless of the methods used. By reframing our language and supporting personal choices, we can create a more inclusive and respectful conversation around conception and birth. This helps to ensure that every person feels validated and supported in their birthing experience.