Uncovering the Business of Being Born: A Critical Analysis

Uncovering the Business of Being Born: A Critical Analysis

Childbirth is a miraculous and life-changing experience that every woman goes through at some point in her lifetime. The process of giving birth is a beautiful thing, and it’s something that should be celebrated. Unfortunately, for many women, the experience of childbirth is not always positive due to the institutionalization of childbirth and the medicalization of the process.

The documentary “The Business of Being Born” is a critical analysis of the modern medicalized approach to childbirth in the United States. The documentary follows the birth experiences of different women and the challenges they face during childbirth. It also offers an alternative perspective on childbirth, focusing on the benefits of natural childbirth and midwifery care.

The film takes a deep dive into the business of childbirth and exposes the profit-driven motives of hospitals and insurance companies that dictate how women give birth. It argues that the traditional medical model of childbirth, which emphasizes the use of drugs and medical interventions, reduces the bonding experience between mother and child and increases the risk of complications during birth.

The documentary advocates for a return to the natural approach to childbirth and encourages women to have more control over their birthing experiences. It suggests that midwives provide care that is more sensitive to the needs of women and their babies and offer a more personal approach to childbirth.

While the documentary raises legitimate concerns about the medicalization of childbirth, it also has its critics. Some argue that the documentary generalizes the experiences of childbirth, not taking into account the complexities of childbirth complications and the essential role that medical interventions play in reducing infant and maternal mortality rates. Critics also argue that midwifery care is not sustainable in areas where medical care is limited or unavailable.

Another perspective is that the film conveys a sense of guilt to women who have had medical interventions during childbirth or C-sections, implying that they have missed out on a more natural and empowering experience. This perspective argues that every woman has the right to give birth in the way that they want and that medical interventions should not necessarily be seen as something negative.

In conclusion, “The Business of Being Born” shines a light on a subject that is often overlooked in modern childbirth discussions. While it may have its critiques, the documentary raises informative questions that highlight the importance of informed decision-making during childbirth. It advocates for women’s rights and control over their birthing experience, promoting a more patient-centered approach to care that ultimately leads to better outcomes for mothers and babies.