Documenting risk: A comparison of policy and information pamphlets for using epidural or water in labour.

作者: Elizabeth C. Newnham , Lois V. McKellar , Jan I. Pincombe

DOI: 10.1016/J.WOMBI.2015.01.012

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摘要: Abstract Background Approximately 30% of Australian women use epidural analgesia for pain relief in labour, and its is increasing. While considered a safe option from an anaesthetic point view, transfers labouring woman out the category ‘normal’ labour increases her risk intervention. Judicious may be beneficial particular situations, but current common needs to assessed more closely. This has not yet been explored context. Aim To examine personal, social, institutional cultural influences on their decision labour. Examining this one event depth illuminates other birth practices, which can also analysed according how they fit within prevailing beliefs about birth. Methods Ethnography, underpinned by critical medical anthropology methodology. Results These findings describe influence culture ward practice; specifically, policies practices surrounding are contrasted with those water. Engaging theory, we identify role power conceptualisations risk, commonly perpetuated authority rather than evidence. Conclusions As move towards risk-driven society, it vital both conception consequences promulgations risk. The construction waterbirth as ‘risky’ practice had effect limiting midwifery women's choices, despite evidence that points ‘dangerous’ option.