Banning Companions During Childbirth Strips Women of Support
Annerieke Daniel- March 27, 2020
Summary: This article covers a recent decision that has been made by hospitals in the U.S due to circumstances caused by Covid-19, a virus that has plagued the United States in 2020. Hospitals have faced many challenges since the Covid-19 outbreak. Most hospitals are low on staff, supplies, and space after an increase of sickly patients caused an increase in risk for those present at the hospital. One result from the pandemic is covered in Daniel's article that tackles the decision that some hospitals have made to not allow partners to be present in the hospital room while child birth is taking place. This decision could not have been an easy one to make, but Daniel explains how it has gotten mixed reactions. Some people support the change to promote social distancing and to ensure the baby only has contact with mother and doctors. Other want to bring to light how this policy directly affects women's rights that people have fought so hard for in the past. Daniel also points out the fact that having a partner present is vital for the mother's safety. A partner can oversee the birth and report any complications that occur to the woman after the birth. When hospitals are already under-staffed during this time, the partners role is vital.
Response: When first hearing about the new policy put into effect due to the pandemic, I was happy that hospitals were taking steps to insure safety during this time. After more thought, my opinion changed. Child birth is a moment that is very special for a woman. She has already been planning for nearly nine months for this moment. For most women, this is one of the scariest yet most rewarding moments of their life. This moment should not be done alone. The partners presence is so important for this moment to go smoothly. I believe it is unfair and unconstitutional for a woman to not have the comfort of their partner during this time. Studies have shown that having a companion present during labor can improve the health outcomes of women and the quality of care they receive as well as ensure childbirth is a safe experience for them. Lets be honest, the woman's partner is going to know her needs better than anyone else in the room. It is fair to understand that this is a time of panic for this country, but women should not be stripped of human rights as a first option for hospitals to take.
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