Hi there,
I have jut registered at the Cradle for my delivery in June and am seeing Dr Prakash Kini. Have you already delivered a baby? If so please write to me about your delivery experience at the Cradle. Eagerly awaiting your reply.
Many thanks in advance for your help
Thanks
ShopGirl

Hi ShopGirl.

thanks for the comment.
Nope, as I mentioned in the story above, the baby is due only in August.

ShopGirl.. Dr.Kini is great. You are in safe hands.

meenakshi…. thanks for adding in. if there are issues with my own dr guess I will request this one!

I think all the doctors there must be good. They have VERY strict guidelines about the qualifications you need in order to practice there in terms of experience, etc. I am taking my OB with me, but they are running extensive checks on her before letting her set foot in the delivery room in their facility. So they are flexible yet responsible.

Hi again,
Smallsquirrel & Meenakshi, Thanks for the prompt response on Dr Kini. He seems great. Have you had experience consulting with him or know of people who have been with him? I’m just wondering what the C section rates are for Dr Kini and Dr Padmini Isaac? As far as possible, I want to have a normal delivery (things have been going jut fine so far). But from what I understand, you need to know which docs have higher incidences of C sections and which have higher rates of normal delivery before you decide on any,
Thanks again in advance for your response
Cheers
ShopGirl

I would seriously doubt that Dr. Kumar (the CEO of Cradle) would let anyone on his staff do unnecessary procedures. I cannot be sure, of course, but this guy is too much of a professional to be out for padding his wallet on some unneeded C-sections (or allowing his staff to do so). After talking to him, I learned that coming back to India and opening this facility was really a labor (no pun intended) of love on his part. I come from a long line of physicians, and my husband is also a doctor. After talking to Dr. Kumar, we trust that he is serious about his staff’s performance AND ethics.

There is a lot of mumbling in general around Bangalore about unnecessary C-sections, I agree with you. The best thing you can do is TALK to your doctor. Tell him/her that you want a normal delivery if possible. But then also understand that sometimes a C-section becomes medically necessary even if your entire full-term pregnancy is without incident. Talk to the doctor and understand what conditions might make a C-section necessary, and understand if there is anything you can do now to reduce your chances. The more you know, the better.

Hi again,
Would you have any references or leads for ladies who come home to give infants and mothers post partum oil massages? Would greatly appreciate any leads/referrals in this regard. I live in the Koramangala area so any leads from women in adjoining areas should also be good.
Thanks for your help in advance
Cheers!

Sorry Shop Girl, I don’t have any leads on that.

That being said, I would be *really* careful about infant massage. The person should have a list of qualifications a mile long before I would let them give the baby a massage, as they could really injure him/her. And I am not even sure that massage for infants as such is recommended. Please check with your healthcare provider fist. Post-partum massage for moms, though, is highly regarded and something I need a lead on myself.

I will check around and let you know if I find anything. Likewise do let me know if you dig up anyone good!

i think it’s great that “Cradle” has opened up in Bangalore. I visited the Cradle in Delhi when I was preggers and had wished dearly that we had one in blore too. the facilities are world class i must say.

i have heard good things about dr. kini too. though my gynac Dr.Vidya Desai was superb and she has a lovely clinic in Indiranagar which was a pleasure to go to.

Went for lamaze classes conducted by Biba bhusri in Koramangala and can’t thank her enough for that. i seriously think we managed a natural birth becoz of that.

all the best squirrel and all the moms to be

Hi! I basically need some help for my sister who is in Blore. She is currently seeing some doc in columbia hospital and is in her 28th week of pregnancy. The doctor has suddenly started talking about growth issues. Could you please tell me the names of the 2 top GY/Obs in blore and if possible in which hospitals can they be met.

Havign delivered a baby 8 months back i can imagine the kind of strees she is undergoing and therefore request you to please share the information that you have.

Thanks and wish you luck!

Hi Cinamon,
Dr. Kini is really good - one of the best. He consults at Elbit in Cunningham Road and also at Raghavs in Jayanagar. Here are his contact details.

Dr. P.P. Kini
Consultant Ob &Gyn
Consultation:Monday to Saturday
10:30 am to 1:00 pm

Elbit Annexe,
Cunningham Classic, 22, Cunningham Road, opp. Eden Park Hotel
Bangalore - 52
Tel: 22865565, 41132465/466
Mobile: 98450 28246

Meenakshi, thanks a million. I shall ask her to see Dr. Kini ASAP and as of now she was to go to Dr. Natarajan and Dr. kamini Rao for a second opionio.

Thanks so much.

Hi,

Can anyone tell me who is better of the two– Kamini Rao / Beena Vasan for IVF/ ICSI.
I personally prefer Beena Vasan !

Thanks for your help.

Hi..

I’m going to visit The Cradle for pre-conceptional counselling. Could you guys suggest an OB/GYN? I’ve observed quite a few people here are in favor of Dr. Prakash Kini. Somehow I don’t know if I would be comfortable with a male OB/GYN. Is that a normal feeling? And if not, how do i shed my inhibition? Please advise.

Thanks!

Candy, I had a male OB/GYN and I had no problems with that. If he is professional and relaxed and able to answer your questions, you will feel comfortable. If the doctor is competent and reassuring, regardless of male or female, you should go with that person. I have friends who don’t necessarily feel that their female OB/GYNs were able to emphathize with them better just because they were women. I think it entirely depends on the doctor and how good he/she is at their job.

hi i would like to know whether dr hema divakar of divakar hospital is good or shud i go to some other gynac.plz do suggest

Candy. I agree with what Meenakshi has said here. That being said, what I would do is this. Meet with Dr. Kini and see if you feel comfortable. Tell him plainly you have never seen a male OB/GYN and you’re a little uncomfortable. I am sure he has heard this a million times and will not be put off. Being honest with your doc is the fundamental basis of any good relationship.

In the US all male doctors have a female nurse in the room when doing an exam. This is to help put you at ease and also to avoid any later claims of impropriety. Not sure what happens in India. But in any case, give it a go and see how you feel after the first meeting.

Manisha: I have no knowledge of or experience with the doctor (or hospital) you’ve mentioned. Sorry

Hi all,

I have been consulting Dr. Kini at the Cradle for a while now. He is just great. Heres what i have observed, there is always a female staff nurse present physically at the time of the examination, so have no misconceptions about all this. Its a great experience in at the Cradle especially the comfort levels with everyone around. Also, for all of you… Dr.Kini doesnt consult at Elbit anymore and he has shifted base to the Cradle. You can all reach him on 40202222. Right from The Cradle to Dr. Kini, there is no scope for disappointments. Cheers all.

Hi,

I have been hearing a lot about this place ” Cradle”. I am planning to get pregnant. I want to know from someone who has actually delivered there. Is it really EVERYTHING that people say it is? How much does it cost?? Who are the GOOD doctors there? Any information anyone???

Waiting to hear……….

Guys!! I just went to The Cradle this morning. Since there were no doctors present there at the time the receptionist contacted Dr. Kini, who usually comes in for his rounds only from 3pm to 6pm. He came in specially to see me before heading to Wockhardt. And you were all right!! He is fantastic!! From the moment he spoke I felt completely comfortable and all the misconceptions I had about male GYNs melted away. So thanks a ton!!

Manisha, I was going to Dr. Diwakar’s hospital till recently. I decided to change to TheCradle coz I never got a chance to meet Dr. Diwakar. You have to meet the assistant doctors there, who I felt were very impersonal and unfriendly. At Cradle there are 21 doctors available for consultation.

Meghana, I would suggest you go to The Cradle. But till then check out the website www.thecradlebangalore.com for info on cost, etc. And like the others here I would suggest Dr. Kini too.

Thanks all of you!!

Candy

Hi Meghana,

I am just in love with the place and i am more happier that i am going to deliver there soon, than about my pregnancy itself. They have all the right steps necessary for proper pregnancy treatment. i had also enrolled to their antenatal classes for the past months and they have been stress relieving and very helpful in the amount of information they provide. And the best part of all is that they are not the least bit expensive compared to all the other places around who are very unclear about what is the final bill that you can expect. At the Cradle you know what you get before itself and their packages start from Rs. 40,000 and goes upwards to Rs. 60,000. Compared to when i had my first baby and the service that i got in other hospitals, gosh thats a steal. I have been going ga-ga about Dr.Kini and everyone thereabouts. Do go in and experience, its somethin you would want to tell everyone about.

regards

Vanity fair

Does anyone know if the cradle offers facilities for a water birth?

I’d also be interested in hearing about anyone’s experience giving birth there.

Dear Vanity Fair,

Thank you for all the info. After reading all these Crumbs I ended up going to The Cradle today! And boy was I surprised as to how CLEAN and FRIENDLY everyone is. I felt I was in a very beautiful hotel and not a hospital.

It is not just the physical aspects of it that impressed me but the medical too. They have the latest in medical equipment and a fantastic NICU which I was really interested in. I met Dr Nandini, the neonatologist and pediatrician, she was very knowledgeable and I was instantly comforted to know that she will be present at the time of delivery.

The overall experience was fantastic. I am definitely getting pregnant soon!! I have nothing to fear, I know where I am going to deliver…..The doctor….well I might just meet the younger doctors on their panel and pick one of them. They might have more patience to listen and answer my 100 questions! They all seem very qualified.

And price like Vanity Fair said is very reasonable for the kind of service, atmosphere, cleanliness and doctors you get at The Cradle.

But I would still like to hear from someone who has actually delivered there. So please, someone tell us……

Meghana

PS: The Cradle does not have Water Birth

Hey all,

I don’t know if this is true or not.. someone mentioned that there are a lot of C-Sec deliveries happening at The Cradle. Apparently as a 1st choice over natural delivery. Anyone knows this to be a fact or is it just a case of sour grapes and rumour mills?

Since I am not yet preg and just visited The Cradle the other day, I have no idea on whether this is true.

Candy… there is this fear sweeping the media trickling down to people over unnecessary c-sections. it is the hyped talk of the day, and no one stands out of the “accused zone”

That being said, I do not believe there could be unnecessary ceasarians happening in that facility. The doctors are not there to make a few extra bucks off unneeded procedures. There is no way in hell any moral doctor would recommend a c-section over vaginal delivery in a healthy woman capable of having a vaginal delivery. But do understand that even if you are healthy and everything is in place, sometimes labor does not progress quickly enough and there is fetal distress, which necessitates the use of a c-section.

This must be a case of sour grapes and rumor mills. There is no way The Cradle has gone to this much trouble to set up the standards it has to ruin them with something so silly.

Go talk to your physician if you have doubts, and if you still have them, request an appointment with Dr. Kumar. I guarantee that you will have your questions answered satisfactorily.

Small Squirrel…

I met with Dr. Kini on my 1st visit and I was impressed. What you say makes complete sense but I was a bit worried about unnecessary procedures. And in my case, when I do conceive I will have to discuss this issue with him so I should not get influenced by false rumours at this juncture.

I’ve heard that many women in the UK are choosing to have C-sections - media reports have labelled this phenomenon ‘too posh to push’. Maybe since the cradle is being advertised as a ’boutique’ hospital there’s an idea that it will attract the ‘too posh’ crowd. Don’t know.

Candy… good idea… do talk to your doctor, am sure you will be put at ease

Jumping Frog… I do think this is a media invention, somewhat. they need to sensationalize something and right now it’s c-sections. I mean, c-sections have a much longer recuperation time… I find it hard to believe that women in droves are opting for them and finding doctors willing to provide with no medical reason. It could be the world “boutique” as you say, which causes the confusion with Cradle…. who knows… but look at their prices… their not making money off c-sections.

Hi all,

Just recently, there was a major debate on NDTV about the unnecessary C sections in the country, and it was quite a heated one too. Dont know if you all got to see it. But the whole idea is that not all C sections have to be planned, there are some cases where you have to be put under the knife “as a manner of speaking” rather than trying to go for a normal delivery. In this present world, with the medical field having advanced to where we are today, i dont know if its a cause to start ringing the alarm bell yet. Our media are too invasive nowadays and can actually be bad sometimes.

All this aside, I did get to meet Dr.Kishore, CEO of The Cradle a while back and he was telling me how normal deliveries sometimes can also lead to a lot of trouble 20 - 25 yrs down the lane. From his vast experience he actually told me that there has been no particular harm that C section cases ( LSCS - what they refer to as ) have been known to cause later on, unless otherwise very badly operated upon.However at The Cradle, they even showed me how they have started the latest trend of using a gas called “ENTONOX”, they are the only ones to have this with them as a skeletal part of the systems it seems. This they use for the deliveries, which actually reduces the labour pain, which was really encouraging and enthralling to understand and know. Apparently its very common in the outside world. So, they actually try and ensure that maximum cases can be normal deliveries, but you can only do so much, he says. The reason a case turns out to be C or normal is entirely dependent on the patient and the doctor at that time.

Frankly, after seeing the medical advancements and the various technologies available today, for someone like me, i wouldnt worry if i go for a Normal or a C section.

All of us who have delivered and/or looking to deliver, i hope this information is useful and i would love to hear all your comments/discussions about this “issue”. Its actually necessary that this topic should be discussed on a much bigger platform so that every woman knows what is on offer today.

I suppose I have been plagued with the ‘old wives tales’ that C-Secs are really not the way to go. In fact I’m sure we all have heard one too many stories of C-Secs gone wrong. Obviously not everyone has the same experience. And yes, a pregnancy can be absolutely normal right up to the point of labor and delivery when suddenly things may turn around for the worst, that being foetal distress. In that situation I can understand the doctors’ plight. However, I am sure in these current times, more women will knowingly opt for a normal delivery since the recovery time is quicker and one can avoid the difficulties attached with C-Secs, being inability to nurse and so on. From personal experience, I can cite my sister who’s had 2 normal deliveries without epidural and has been discharged from the hospital within 2 days on her 1st delivery and 1 day on her 2nd delivery!!! Understandably, I have been very much influenced by her choice in this regard. However, I think it is important to have a heart-to-heart discussion with one’s OB/GYN, trust him/her to understand one’s choice and leave the rest to God and the OB/GYN to decide which course to take when the crucial time arrives.

Vanity Fair, that bit of info certainly helps. I will definitely talk to my GYN at Cradle. One thing is for sure though, I am going there for my delivery!!

well, it is harder to recover from a C-section… recovery time is weeks instead of days. you can encounter stretching, pulling and possible infection at the incision site, and of course going up and down stairs is impossible for 1-2 weeks. You cannot pick up anything heavy, so if you have another child who is a toddler, this can be a problem. Also, once you have a c-section, it is very very difficult to have your next baby vaginally, and most doctors will not even attempt it.

Unfortunately all this media hype is also making women feel that if they must have a c-section, they are somehow less of a mother. Placenta previa, pre-eclampsia, fetal distress, etc. all necessitate the need for a c-section (along with other conditions)…. and aside from endangering the life of the baby AND the mother, there is no other option. C-sections are great when they are used for the proper reasons and no woman should feel bad about having one.

Small Squirrel..

I agree… A woman should never be made to feel guilty or questioned about her feelings towards her child if she is forced to undergo a C-Sec and things are beyond control. And you are right about the media hype too. Unconsciously or sub consciously we are heavily influenced by what we see and hear on the news these days. We make too much of irresponsible reporting.

hi all you to be moms,
i was just going through your conversations. it seems only y’day, i have had my second child who is already 16 months old. needless to say my doc was kini. i had this baby after a lot of infertility procedures. so i was in two minds about continuing with the same setup or shifting to dr.kini. my decision was absolutely right. he never scares u, makes u feel comfortable and i can assure u all my 9 months was a cakewalk though i was on the heavier side, had a bit of hypertension. dr kini never medicates u without need and he expects u to shed all those extra kilos immediately after delivery as early as possible. so have happy deliveries as u are in a pair of safest hands in bangalore.
ranjani

Thanks Ranjani! I feel even better now about having selected Dr. Kini as my OB/GYN. And the fact that he encourages one to shed the extra weight is incredible!! I definitely am on the same page as him on that one! It doesn’t hurt to have a cheer leader, does it?

Since we are discussing CSecs and the regularity with which docs are carrying them out I thought this is a must-read. Click on the link below…

http://www.indiwo.com/india/news/childbirth-pregnancy/more-women-opt-for-csection/4720/0

that article is weak on sources. I think it is just more media hype.
And it is misleading. Every woman does not have the right to choose what kind of delivery she wants. There are few doctors who will go along with a woman’s choice to have an elective c-section if she is capable of a vaginal delivery. it is an operation, and it carries more risk. sure, greedy docs at private hospitals might be more willing to go that route… but it is not ethical.

In the US you have to have a damned good reason for having one, or your insurance will not pay for it. And there, you cannot afford to have a baby without insurance. In india it is a different story.

I also take exception to the line in that article that blames the “sedentary lifestyle of the working woman”!!! WTF? I work 14 hours a day, cook, clean and… THAT IS SEDENTARY? This author needs a good smack in the head.

Ooh I didn’t read that one!!! The author has got to be a guy and a complete male chauvinist that too! I apologise, the article proves to be ‘irresponsible’ in nature. Seems like I’ve been victimised!

No issues, Candy… you were just trying to give more information.

Hi to all out there,

great to go thro’ your discussion.I just delivered a bonny baby boy a week ago.Feeling on top of the world. Lovely experience.will join the discussion tomorrow.

Hi,
Can anyone tell me where Biba Bhusri conducts childbirth classes.
Her address and telephone number would be very helpful to me. Am now 27weeks pregnant. Would like to take up her classes at the earliest.

Biba Bhusri 9343779493..

Thanks Candy..
I too have that number. But there is no response in that number for the past 4days.
Do you know her address or any other contact number by any chance?

Nope, unfortunately I don’t.

Prathima.. I just found out from a friend that Biba conducts lamaze sessions at Apple of my Eye, next to Mothercare in Indira Nagar. You could call Just Dial and get more info on that lead. I’ll also try getting Biba’s number through the same friend. Will keep you informed if I manage getting it. Hope that helps.

Small Squirrel,
Your statement “Placenta previa, pre-eclampsia, fetal distress, etc. all necessitate the need for a c-section (along with other conditions)…” in one of the crumbs above doesnt sound like a layman language. Are you a Doctor. ? No offence to you, but you sound too eager to impress upon everyone that cradle is the best place for delivery.I feel, we should hear from all others their experiences so that each one can decide on their own. I am really eager to find out whats the C-Section versus Normal Delivery rate at cradle till now.. When I asked one of their staff , I didnt get get a forthright response.. Also Could some one pls tell if mr Prakash Kini is also a good surgeon who can handle emergency situations and his csection vs normal delivery rate.

examiner… no I am not a doctor. My husband is a doctor, and I am a well-informed consumer.. as every mother should be. One should know about these conditions. I am only eager to share that women in this city have options. I went to a lot of trouble doing research and felt I should share that. I never told women not to do their own research! And I also never told others not to share their views!!! I have only expressed my opinions and the fact that the media has hyped this issue beyond belief… to the point of actually putting out false or skewed numbers.

You should do your own research. But you should also be aware of what you are asking. If the number of C-Sections at Cradle is higher than vaginal births, that does not mean that something is fishy. It could mean they have taken on a lot of higher-risk cases, or many many other factors. But I guarantee you that if they give just the straight numbers, people will jump to ridiculous conclusions.

Small Squirrel, As I said, No offence to you and apologies if my statement hurt you. I very much appreciate your efforts to start this topic and share with all of us..Just that I am trying to be as scpetic as possible to make the bet evaluation of this wonderful facility - cradle. I am only being extra careful, as possible so that we and other prospective mothers dont get overawed by the glitz of facilities as end of the day, all that matters is the skill, attitude and competence of doctors in the facility. I would rather prefer a competent doctor at a not so great ambience than taking risk with unknown doctor at a posh place.Hope you understand.

As for the rate of c sections versus normal delivery,I dont accept your arguement that cradle may take more high cases, as there is no basis for that and all other hospitals also will have the smae probability of taking high risk cases. I still think, over a large period of time it would be a good indicator as to what the hospital is predisposed for mostly and it is an improtant factor. Would like to hear on that from some one and on Dr Kini

examiner… no offense taken.

But you must understand a few things.
1. Cradle has only been open a short period of time. It is very difficult to build any kind of reliable statistics on just a few months’ data. SO yes, while over along period of time it would be a good indication, they have only a few months data.

2. No, not all hospitals have the same probability of taking high-risk cases. that is patently false. Cradle has a Level III NICU and a lot of hospitals do not have that. Recently they handled the case of a baby born at (not sure of the exact week so I could be off 1-2 weeks) 26 weeks… and few hospitals are qualified to handle a baby born that prematurely! Also, because Dr. Kumar requires the physicians there to have a certain length of experience and expertise, these doctors are MORE qualified to handle high risk cases, and therefore will attract more women who might encounter complications.

I am not trying to be argumentative, but this is something I know about. Not just because my husband is a physician and my parents and grandparents are also in the medical field. It is because I have taken the time myself to ask a million questions, and when I do not get the answer I want.. I ask again.

Also I should let it be known that I fully researched the medical staff of the hospital before I went there myself. I am not one to go and have my own health (and the life of my unborn baby) put at risk just for some plush towels and well-equipped rooms. What is most important to me is the quality of the healthcare, the education of the staff, and their ability to provide the best possible place for me to give birth to my child.

I went the extra step and talked to the medical director of the hospital. I did my homework. I do encourage you to do yours.

Nice seeing that this discussion has really progressed from the time I posted a crumb.
Quick question though: Someon mentioned that the packages at Cradle start at 40K upwards to 60K. Well, I have regd at the Cradle and they told me that a normal is 60K for a deluxe room (which is the bottom end)(no mention of a 40K) and C is of course in the 70-90K band depending on the room.

And I was also told to register before April 1st as the rates increase after that (Note I’m due in June). So we ended up paying 25K upfront which they encashed although we are covered under the insurance.

Will anyone tell me if they have any other numbers and where does this 40K originate from? Are we also on the same page regarding the price increase after April 1st?
Waiting to hear from the Cradle enthusiasts.

shopgirl…. I was quoted (from printed material) for the introductory offer.. 50K for deluxe room, normal delivery, 70K c-section …. add 20K to each if you go for the larger rooms with attender suite.

Yes, the prices went up as of April 1, so I actually paid all my fees upfront. Not sure of the new fees.

Wow!!! So much information……..about so many things. I am tired just reading it all!
I was at Cradle 10 days back……the packages do start at 40 K, it is a basic package mostly for Insurance patients they said. It does not include many tests that they do for the baby like Neo natal Screening/hearing and many other things. The 60 K seems like a good deal as it includes EVERYTHING, no hidden charges they said. The prices have gone up since April, the 60K was 50K .

Prathima, FYI: The Cradle also has antenatal classes.

I agree with smallsquirrel, Cradle has been open for too short a period to make any judgements.
Chill girls and enjoy your pregnancies……..(hope to be there soon). Normal or C Section pray that you have a healthy baby. You can’t have a place like Cradle and not have efficient, capable doctors, just because they have taken extra pains to make the place look “un hospital” like does not mean you are not in safe hands. How else can a 26 weeker survive?

Well………more later.

Hey all, its amazing how many people have spoken about their views, cheers to small squirrel to start this conversation (albeit a doctor or not), am sure it has helped a lot of us. Regarding the confusion of the package, i too am an insurance holder and have been given the 50k package, but just as meghana said, it was for all those who have registered before april 1st as the same package is now priced at 60k, thats a hike of 20%. They have taken the deposit from me too but also have been assured that during the time i get admitted and the insurance approvals, the same would be adjusted against the bill, if any or reimbursed in full.

I did get a chance to meet a few of the patients who had delivered there during my last visit and they were all very happy and one particular couple who had similarly paid upfront to avail the price, did get their money back in full after their insurance approvals. I feel there is too much that can be said about an organisation in their early days, when they are trying to make a statement. I am extremely happy with the services received so far and anyone interested can actually speak to the PRO there, who can give you a world of information about their experience so far.

And guys, the baby which everyone is talking about, is in the NICU for everyone to see from their magnificent viewing window, and was also told that once the baby goes back home, we will get to read about it all in the newspapers.

As keen as everyone is about the rate of C sections to the Normals, they were not able to give me an exact figure but they are somewhere at 60-40 with C sections being the upper ratio currently, they have delivered close to 88 families including a few expats as well ( i shud know, my frnd delivered there, she was from Austria ) and everyone being very happy, irrespective of the procedure. I dont see the cause for alarm bells to be ringing, in other multinational hospitals, they would treat you like dirt or see a money bag in your hands, those who have not been here, should see how open and friendly each one of them is, be it Dr.Kishore or s a staff nurse walking around……….

Also, I mentioned a debate in NDTV which happened recently, i hope some of you all got to see it, it was so clear that with medical advancements, one should really not be bothered about C Section or Normal, the recovery period is more or less the same. As Meghana says, guys enjoy your newborn and be a proud parent rather than having to crib about this, but this would be an excellent platform for ladies who have had C secs to put their hand up and let us know about their experiences. So come on ladies…….. take the stage

Hey Vanity Fair,

Could you give me some info on insurance policies for delivery/pregnancy related hospitalization and the insurance companies offering such products & services? I’m pretty clueless on that.

Thanks!

Hey candy,

Well my husband works for Intel and the insurance is his provision. I have no idea how to get hold of one, all the insurance talk that is going on is only corporate insurances and not individual. I dont know where we can get more information on the insurance companies and their services. If there is someone who can let us know about the same, please share it with us ……… Thanks

Hey all,

Just got a call from The Cradle PRO and she mentioned that Dr. Kishore was on live on Udaya TV ( in Kannada ), i missed the live transmission, but can catch the same at 7.00 pm tonite, lets see if i can watch and make it out something, since it will be in Kannada……

Thanks for the agreement on the numbers. Well, to add to the Dr Kini supporters, I must say that ever since I switched from Dr Leela Bhagvan at Sagar Apollo to Dr Kini, I have been extremely pleased with the outcome (on my wallet for starters and secondly from the approachability/friendliness/knowledge/information perspective.
At Sagar Apollo, somehow, I got the impression, that the docs have some kinda agreement with the management that they will subject the patient to a battery of tests even in cases where everything couldn’t be better than normal. This would increase the hospital revenue. I was one such victim. Dr Bhagvan has managed to make my file really thick and there were 2 or 3 instances when she got me worried sick due to the mistakes of the tests/scan radiologists. And I was subject to even more tests which turned out normal.
When the same was asked to Dr Kini, he thought it was sad that I had become a victim of hospital greed. In fact, Dr Bhagvan (unnecessarily wanted a 28 week scan also just to assess fetal growth and amniotic fluid sufficiency). Part of std protocol as they say and nothing specific to me. To top it she wanted me to take hepatitis shots (god knows what impacts a live virus could have on an otherwise normal fetus). Luckily for me, I switched to Cradle at that point and I was told not to take the 28 wk scan just wait till the last scan at end of term to determine fetal position. Plus no hepatitis shots.
Another thing, I must point out is that Sagar Apollo routine urine tests are all botched up such that “Bacteria present” always appears on the test result. This further leads docs to run a urine culture (costing an additional 350 bucks or so) which comes out normal. THis happened both times when I was asked to take the test. An absolute scam!!!
Rooms are also never available when you need them and they dont allow you to pre book needless to say the state of the rooms is pathetic. Hygiene levels really suck.
Another thing I was told was that many of the tests docs at Sagar Apollo ask you to do are outdated and of no use. Cradle makes you do no such tests.
Ever since I switched to Dr Kini @ The Cradle, I must say I have been truly happy. I’m due in June. So will post a crumb on my experience there when I deliver. Personally, I haven’t heard from anyone who has delivered there but I did see a couple with a newborn baby having a cuppa at the Barista downstairs in the Cradle and she was beaming from ear to ear , as if she had gotten a new toy:-) That itself summed it up:-)

Thanks ShopGirl……..I have no doubts about Cradle now.
And, yes the rooms in Sagar are really sad looking.
Well, hope to hear from you soon about your delivery.

Hi everyone,

I am planning to conceive and from all the messages I have read, I got to know that Dr. Prakash Kini of The Cradle is good. Well I have not yet decided my gynaec, but have met Dr. Gayatri Kamath of Wockhardt. Do anyone has any info about Dr. Gayatri. And tell me really that, the fact that Dr. kini is a male never ever made your situation awkward??

Please reply me. I am new in Bangalore and so your experiences and suggestions would be really useful to me.

Hi Dips..

I did recently meet Dr. Kini and he made me feel completely at ease. He is extremely professional. Initially I did have the inhibition about male OB/GYN but after meeting him I felt quite comfortable. He makes his rounds at Wockhardt too. I suggest you meet with him before deciding. I’m in a similar situation as yours, I’m new to Bangalore as well plus I am now planning a family. Dr. Kini’s preconceptional counselling was excellent!

Positively Pregnant prenatal and childbirth classes at Asha Medical Foundation(14 th Batch ) begins on 19May , 2007. Aimed at helping pregnant mothers take optimum self-care to enable them to have a healthy baby, the classes include Lamaze breathing and relaxation techniques, comfort measures for labour and delivery, pre-natal exercises, painless labour, maternal nutrition for healthy development of the baby, breastfeeding, infant care, post natal exercises, contraception and maternal care in an interactive support-group setting.please contact Priya :priya.srinivas@ashafoundation.org; Faisal : 98860 55663 ;

Hi,

Ive just discovered that I am pregnant and was wondering if someone could suggest a could gynaecaologist in Bangalore. Im new to this city. I have read so much bout the cradle, I think that will be my choice of hospital for the delivery.

Sunshine… congratulations.

As for obstetricians (which is what you want, not a gynecologist), it would help to know what part of the city you live in. If you are in Rajajinagar, I would not suggest someone in Koramangala… because while that drive might not seem so bad now, when you’re in your last month and in need of weekly visits it will get ugly.

Also, ideally, you want to have the same obstetrician for the exams and duration of your pregnancy as you have for the delivery. It’s pretty unusual to not do so. If you live relatively close to the Cradle, the have an OPD so you can see a doctor there itself. If you are in a part of town very far away from Jayanagar then ask around where you live, or post your location here and maybe someone here has an idea. If you are more than about 45 mns from Cradle you might want to re-asses your decision to deliver there, although they do have a ambulance equipped to handle any delivery emergency. Still, 45 mins is a long, long way to travel when you’re in labor!

So you have a family doctor here yet? That person might also have suggestions!

Thanks smallsquirrel. I just moved to Bangalore 2 months ago…. and am completely new to this city. I live close to Jayanagar, so i think the opd at the cradle is a good option. Any suggestion on a good female obstetrician

Sunshine…. I do not, sorry. Others might have, though. You also have a couple options:

1. Call the OPD at Cradle and ask for an appt with a female doc
2. Be brave and take a chance on seeing a male doc. They are professionals and will talk to you about any worries you might have. A few women on this board were initially against seeing a male, and found that Dr. Kini especially is good at setting your mind at ease. Also, there will always be a female nurse present during your exam. However, if your religion precludes you from doing so, or you just cannot do it then see #1 above!

Dr. Padmini is one of the chief OB/GYNs in Cradle. You could meet her.

Hi All,
I am due in august and live near RT Nagar, Columbia Asia is the nearest facility it seems in the area, but not sure how good it is, my OB/GYN is also kind of ok, or maybe it’s me, having given birth to my first child in US, I have become this skeptical.
Anyway, could anyone give me any idea how far is Cradle from where I live? Also, did anyone hear of Dr. Poornima Ramesh?

Female doctors in Cradle: I have heard Dr Brunda Channappa is good, she also has had a few deliveries there. I will probably consult her ………soon. I want someone young as they will have more patience and listen better.

Ivy… RT Nagar is pretty far away from Jayanagar… in traffic could be as much as 1.5 hours, so might not be the best solution for you

Meghana… when you say that younger docs will have more patience and listen better, I am not sure that is a good assumption. A good doctor is good, despite age. Some young doctors are just “hotshots” and too cocky to listen. Some are great. But why would you not factor in the experience that comes with age? I think you should focus less on age, more on experience and compatibility. These are the most important factors.

Small Squirrel.. I have heard of older experienced doctors snapping at their patients when they ask too many questions. I feel what you say is right. Experience and compatibility counts but I know many women who are scared of older doctors and feel these doctors think the younger generation are way too inquisitive and are over cautious. I myself have opted for Dr. Prakash Kini at The Cradle because I felt he responded to my questions patiently.

Meghana.. I do feel if you hit it off well with any experienced doctor, you will be in capable hands. I switched from a young doctor to Dr. Kini coz I felt the former was too impersonal and unfriendly.

Each case is different. It just depends on how both patient and doctor click right from the 1st appointment.

Candy… I totally understand. I have had older doctors who were just too “experienced” to want to listen to me. But I have also had younger ones who were so new they pretended to know what was happening when they did not. You have to go with your own personal comfort level… so all I am saying is what you ended with… it is the relationship between dr and patient that counts!

Thanks Smallsquirrel,I thought so too………………………….still not being able to make up my mind about the place of delivery………………
anyone here have any experience with columbia asia?

Thank you all for the ADVICE…..
I am setting up an appointment to meet Dr Brunda today, will let you all know how I feel after that.

Seems like we hit a nerve there. Sorry, Meghana. It was meant to be a friendly suggestion.

Hi all

Just to add to the long list of Dr. Kini’s fans, I would love to say the same too. Ever since I have met him, I dont feel scared of this whole gynaecological set up. And what’s better is he makes both me and my hubby comfortable by speaking exactly in those words that we wish to hear. My husband now is assured that we couldnt have got any other gynaec who is so approachable for a man also to talk to, and mind you I had a female gynaec earlier and she just couldnt convince my husband what the heck she was speaking!!

About Cradle, I still have one qualm about them. They still do not have a cashless option from TTK Insurance which is a pity cos a lot of companies offer that. Am only hoping that by September they do SOMETHING to get this insurance guys to approve a cashless option.

Hey Meghna…. Did u visit to Dr Brunda? How is she? Does anyone have info on Dr Padmini Isaac?

We are also seeing Dr Kini and are quite satisfied with his approach. Did any one have any idea why he prefers scans to be done with Dr Akhila at jayanagar ? well it shows that he is not biased by giving more scan business to cradle.. and possibly have best intentions in referring to Dr Akhila.. But our experience with her has not been good and we definitely are not going to go to her again. We thought she has been too casual with ultrasound as we have read widely in internet that ultrasound should be used with caution as unnecessary exposure may cause long term affect on fetus. (though, we have to admit the information on ultrasounbd safety is highly confusing..and not very clear on this topic). Can any one share their experience of scan at cradle itself…we may prefer that next time.

Hey examiner…

I’ve been referred to Dr. Akhila by Dr. Kini for a scan tomorrow. So now what you’re saying is a bit troubling. Do you think I should still go ahead?

Candy

examiner… hi there. I do not mean any offense with what I am going to ask you, but what makes you think this doc was “too casual” with the ultrasound? I am very interested to know what that means.

Please let me assure you that no matter what you have read on the internet, ultrasound (when done by a professional) is perfectly safe for the fetus… not only that, but it is a very very important diagnostic tool that helps the doctor understand and monitor multiple factors of a pregnancy. Yes, you should not have an ultrasound every week. And it should be done by a professional. But the 4-6 ultrasound examinations that a pregnant woman has over the course of a pregnancy will NOT harm the fetus.

I do understand that you might have found information to the contrary on the net. Please do understand that it is possible to find *anything* there… information that would steer you in the wrong direction and make you unnecessarily worried. You could find a lot of “research” telling you also not to immunize your child against polio, too. You have to know the source of the information and ensure that it is a trusted medical journal, not some well-meaning person with an axe to grind, so-to-speak. If you give me some time I would be happy to post here some legitimate sources of information on ultrasound.

Please talk to your OB/GYN who I am sure has some literature about ultrasound. I am sorry that Dr. Ahkila reacted the way she did. That’s not great. But I think doctors become frustrated with the volume and quantity of false information on the net.

Candy… yes I think you should go ahead. Ultrasound is very necessary to determine the health and development of your unborn baby.

Here is one valuable site explaining all the uses of ultrasound, which also discusses possible risks at the bottom and has a link to a large reference list on the research they quote:

http://www.ob-ultrasound.net/

A news article quoting something from the Lancet, which publishes only legitimate medical research:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=17281

In the end, I hope that you understand that:
1) ultrasound is NOT an X-ray, and will not harm your fetus
and
2) it is the only non-invasive procedure available to determine anomalies and the health of your baby. Without it, you could face serious issues that could harm your baby and even endanger the life of the mother (ex,. undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy)

Hi Candy i wud say u jus go ahead with ur scan with Dr.Akila,it was jus my observation.i had my first scan done by Dr.Pradeep at Wockhart which was done very professionally with minimum exposure to the US and also the quality of the printed report was very good and clear.so when i went to Dr.Akila for the second scan i was a bit dissappointed bythe way it was done.when i say “casual” what i meant was that it was not as profesional as my previous one.she got a call in between and she kept the ultrasound pointer or whatever it is called on my stomach in the same place and was attending to her call for about 5 mins,which really annoyed both me and my husband.And one more thing was that we found the quality of the report really bad.The scan and the report is printed back to back where we cannot really observe the correlation and also the preparation of the report.The doctor was dictating and one of the receptionist was typing it physically where chances of going wrong with facts and figures is practically high.We felt all this was not professional. But Candy this is our experience,u pl go ahead and then form ur opinion.We jus wanted to share our experience and see if only we felt that way or is she really not that good.But my experince with Dr.Pradeep was too good.Pl give ur feedback once u get ur scan done.

Thanks, Small Squirrel. Your insight on the topic is of great value. It certainly puts aside any misconception one may have regarding going through the ultrasound process.

examiner… Thanks for sharing your experience. I will definitely let you know how it goes today. I know exactly what you mean when you said the doctor was dictating her observations to her receptionist. It is extremely unprofessional and I have seen this happening in many other diagnostic centers. Unfortunately in India professionalism is lacking in this area where utmost care should be taken. A lot of critical decisions are taken on the basis of such reports by doctors and even a slight error in typing can affect a life or death situation. Talking on the phone while conducting an ultrasound procedure is simply inexcusable. She isn’t being sensitive to the patient’s feelings of anxiety at that particular moment. That is indeed very unprofessional. Let’s see how it goes today and I’ll definitely say something to Dr. Kini about my experience if it isn’t as good as it should be. I think you should too so he won’t refer cases to her in the future.

examiner… I would like to add here that you obviously want the absolute best for your child. So please communicate your feelings to Dr. Kini and tell him that you don’t want to compromise on that by going to Dr. Akhila again coz she made you extremely uncomfortable.

Hi there again. Just a couple points.

1) dictating to another person is generally accepted practise. If the doctor stopped all the time to write down the measurements the exam would take a very long time and s/he might miss some things. A

OOps that posted before I was ready.. let;s try that again.

Hi there again. Just a couple points.

1) dictating to another person is generally accepted practise. If the doctor stopped all the time to write down the measurements the exam would take a very long time and s/he might miss some things. You can notice that as the doctor is telling the measurements s/e is generally looking to make sure they have the best possible angle and shot. At the same time the doctor is telling the measurements, a lot of them are saved on the screen, which are transferred to the computer. When the report is compiled the doc checks the measurements again and signs the report.

2) Taking the phone call is CRAP. I had the same problem with the doc who did my ultrasound. She is clinically a brilliant doc but her bedside manner is shite. At my last visit she actually NEGOTIATED A CAR LOAN during my exam. I had a fit.

3) The report, sadly, is done in a way that your OB can understand, not you. They are standard reports and most sonogram reports follow the same format. You can always ask your OB to explain the information to you. Not ideal.. but it does ensure that your OB gets the information he/she needs.

Bottom line… if you are uncomfortable with a doctor.. .change.. you have a right to be happy and comfortable with whatever physician you are seeing.

I have beeen going thru this blog for sometime as iam a mom to be,no offense but i strongly feel that small squirrel is not genuien.the kind of info she shares is higly comendable and very proffessional and i also feel she’s very biased,all are sharing their experiences there is nothing to be offended and support anyone like the way she’s doing to Dr.Akila,if some doc took a phone call during her US and she if she has no objection its fine but thats not the same with everybody,i really don understand why she’s getting so offended and being rude and as an educated person everyone wud like to know what a medical report says.it is rude to say that a “report is made for the OB to understand and not u”.Sorry small squirell i really feel u r not a genuine person,this is a blog where mothers to be r sharing their experiences without any bias pl b genuine and share ur views,don get offended wen someone shares something about a particular thing and try to prove them wrong.
Examiner….Thanks for sharing ur experience.
Candy….. i look forward to ur experience…

sonia… I am sorry if you were offended. But I actually said that I thought the taking of the phone was rude and unprofessional. So I did not support Dr, Akhila, and in fact said that when my own doc did the same thing, I had a fit!

I also said that SADLY the report is structured in a way for the doctor to understand. That means that while I do not think that is the greatest way for it to be, that is the way it is.

Please read what I have written and try not to inject your own interpretations. I do not feel that I have been rude at all. I am most genuine. I am the original author of this blog, and I posted it to encourage discussion. When I feel something is not correct, I say so. But if you notice, I ALWAYS tell the individual that they should and MUST do what is most comfortable for them.

Also, let me just add that while I am not sure this site has rules against posting under more than one name, we can see your IP addresses and know if the same person is using multiple names. Just be honest and use one name, please!

Ok I must agree that maybe dictating observations is better than having written by the doctor her/himself. As the popular belief goes that all doctors have illegible handwriting! No offense to any doctor reading this. It’s just how the saying goes. You never know what condition may be inferred by the assistant as she tries to decipher what is quickly scribbled by the doctor. I remember having seen this once. A receptionist in a diagnostic center was literally squeezing her eyes to clearly read what the pathologist had scrawled all over the observation sheet. So I guess dictation is a better option though I wish they could devise a better method than that.

Small Squirrel … I must commend you for having started this post and sharing vital information with us. This has turned out to be an extremely interesting discussion.

Sonia… Small Squirrel has always ended her information and opinion sharing with a disclaimer, if I could call it that. She has never coerced anyone to change their beliefs but just encouraged an open debate here. We’re all sharing ideas and should keep it at that. It’s not fair to label.

candy… I think what is disconcerting about the dictation is that no one is explaining to you what they are saying.. and it’s YOUR BODY! You cannot really stop them and ask “so what if the nasal bone is visualized and is XXX in length? what does that mean? is it normal?” so all these flying facts and figures raise more questions and nervousness….

what I do is this. I wait for the doc to near the end of that segment of the exam, then I ask general questions like “is that value within acceptable range?” Sometimes they will answer you, and sometimes they feel that it is better for you to have that talk with your OB. Also, words like “normal” are not often good to use when asking questions. ranges differ. So for instance, if you have having a nuchal fold scan and ask if the thickness is normal, they will give you a round-about answer… about ranges.. and you have to decide with your doctor if the risk range is acceptable for you.

But yes, I agree that it can raise discomfort levels to feel like ppl are talking about you in a language you cannot understand… when it’s so important to you…. that’s the issue, right?

Small Squirrel ..LOL. Yeah that’s true! I guess all of us unfamiliar with medical lingo would just want to ask whether what the doc is talking about is normal. Personally, I wouldn’t want to go into too much of the specifics if he just told me everything is as it should be. This kind of jargon would have me completely confused.

And a mistake we all tend to make is asking the doctor doing the ultrasound all sorts of questions. My sister did that during her 1st pregnancy and the doc told her that the development of the foetus was abnormal. Obviously, she freaked out at that. But then when she went to her OB/GYN she was pacified. Everything was normal and luckily it was when the baby was born too. So a person can be spared a lot of undesirable pain and anguish herself by just being patient and talking directly to one’s OB/GYN. We just couldn’t understand why the other doctor put the doubt in her mind.

Small squirrel, im definitely a differnt person but someone who has know s and is a collegue of examiner and im also a mom to be for ur clarification.But anyways not offense to anyone its jus what i felt and im not labelling anyone.Thanks.

candy… wow, I have heard of that happening, where the person doing the sonogram unnecessarily scares the patient. that is too bad, and I am so sorry that happened to your sister. I will tell you, not as an excuse, but as an explanation.. that the job of the person dong the sonogram is to find problems. but that doesn’t excuse them scaring anyone!!! Aiyo!

But also, that is kinda why the reports are left a bit cryptic… so the doctor can explain them to you properly and you don’t get all scared at numbers and values than can be interpreted different ways.

Sonia, that’s fine… but you called me rude and not genuine. How is that not labelling?? Anyhow, I am not offended, I just wish you had read what I said more carefully, that’s all. Also, you both used the same IP and email address, so excuse my suspicion.

examiner/Sonia… I’m back from my appointment at Medha Ultrasound. The most frustrating part from my experience was that the staff there had mixed up the appointments and there were patients waiting till 4.45 pm for a 3.30pm appointment.

other than that I felt Dr. Akhila was casual but not about my scan. She seemed friendly and very easy to talk to, which was a relief coz I definitely wouldn’t want to deal with some cold unapproachable person treating me like a lab rat.

Well that was my experience. Unfortunately not everyone has the same kind of interaction. So I would still suggest you talk to Dr. Kini about your discomfort in going to her for your future scans.

Small Squirrel.. I tried to refrain from asking her too many Qs but then succumbed to the anxious side of me. Everything seems normal right now so I’m happy Will head to Dr. Kini sometime this week, armed with the report.

candy… congrats on the “normal” (hee) scan. I am glad everything is going well for you and baby!

I hear ya on the frustration part. 2 weekends ago, I had an 11 AM appt. I was seen at 12:25 and then had to come out because the baby was facing the wrong way for them to do a scan of the face… I went to lunch, came back and waited another 2.5 hours to get back in. My day was shot and I was in a foul mood. So, ya… waiting is the worst part, especially if they made a scheduling error.

Yikes!! That’s too much of a wait! Be glad it’s over and done with and pray it never happens again.

I have read all the comments and have a few questions if anyone has the time:

There is a real possibility that my husband and I could be moving to Bangalore as soon as August or September. I am 14 weeks pregnant and giving birth someplace I have never been is a real fear of mine and one reason I do not want to move. I am especially nervous after reading all the comments here and other places. The Cradle sounds like the best place I have found but the 60% C-section rate is outrageou in my opinion.

My story: I am 35, have a 15 month old daughter, had a mostly natural birth with my daughter, 20 hours of back labor, 5 hours of pushing, no pain meds, pitocin toward the end, otherwise a problem free delivery (an easy pregnancy as well, with no complications). I am very set on having a natural childbirth this time as well. If we stay here in San Francisco I might have a home birth as I don’t love the hospital environment and don’t want to have to fight the hospital staff to have the birth I want.

I have a lot of questions about the birth environment in Bangalore, I know that many babies are born every day in India, so I will not be doing anything new! But I am concerned about how women are treated, about the medical nature of birthing, and about my rights as a patient.

I’ll just list some of my questions:

I’ve heard some places require an enema and shaving. Is this common practice and what happens if I refuse?

Do I have the right to refuse interventions, like pitocin, an IV, forceps, vacuum, induction?

Do I have the right to leave the hospital soon after the birth or do they make you stay (assuming all is well with me and the baby)? And what happens if I refuse?

How is natural childbirth considered? Do hospital staffs respect it?

Do most OBs have a cut off for induction (like they won’t let you go past 41 weeks)? And what happens if I refuse?

Do most OBs have a cut off for cesareans (like 2 hours of pushing means a cesarean even if mom and baby are fine)? What happens if I refuse?

If anyone has any answers, I’d really appreciate it, either by comments here or via email. Good luck to all of you in your pregnancies!

molly…. no need to worry, I am sure if you come, you will find most or all of what you are looking for. You probably will not find a midwife, but you will find a doctor who will work with you on your requests.

Natural childbirth is new here but accepted.

The rest of the answers I will give you from my husband’s perspective. He is a physician. He says that you should talk to your doctor and work something out.

1. enema and shaving are common practice but you can refuse

2. you can refuse forceps and vaccuum. do realize that this is a slippery slope. those are used in emergencies…if the baby gets stuck and is in distress, if they cannot use other means, the baby could die. you will not have time to get into the OR. what if there are complications with the cord or your placenta????IVs can be used to deliver much needed fluid (aside from drugs if you do not want them,) you should not refuse fluids or a transfusion if you bleed profusely. pitocin… that is your choice but if you are not progressing in labor, there is nothing else they can do.

3. you can check out “against medical advice” any time you wish

4. thoughts about natural childbirth differ, just like in the US

5. Yes, most have a cut off which is determined by the health of the baby at the time. if the baby goes into distress, it should come out or it will die and you could die too.

6. switch from vaginal to c-section is determined by monitoring the baby. if the baby goes into distress and is not already in the birth canal, they will suggest a c-section. if you refuse and the baby remains in distress, the baby will die, and you could as well.

OK, those are the opinions of one physician. when you get here you can talk to others.

Thanks, I appreciate your responses. In the cases that I mention about refusing treatment, I am assuming that there is no distress to the baby or me, but I know of several doctors here in the US that will not let pushing go past a certain amount of time (I pushed for 5 hours - most doctors would not allow that - and the baby and I were fine). Also, my issue with the IV is more that it restricts movement and I want to be able to walk around, not be strapped to a bed. Of course, if IV fluid are needed or if pitocin is needed (I will hopefully not need pitocin and do not want it unless there is some problem), I will get it, I jsut think these medical interventions are used too freely and without medical need.

I appreciate you taking the time to answer, I hope to visit soon and determine if I want to have the baby there or stay in California for the delivery. GOod luck to you.

Just another note, “progressing in labor” seems to be a very subjective idea. By many doctor’s standards I did not progress, but there was nothing wrong with me or the baby. All women are different, babies are different, they aren’t going to enter this world in a timetable set by medical professionals, they come out when they are ready. I think many women start the chain of interventions because a doctor has told them they are “failing to progress” even if the baby is not in distress and mom is fine. If everyoen is healthy, why not let a woman labor until the baby comes out the way God intended? Just my thought ont hat subject.

Molly… I think this is why people need to set up a good relationship with a doctor they trust and have a dialog with them about what they expect. Then the doctor can tell them what protocol they follow, and they can reach a decision together. In the heat of the moment is not always the appropriate time to be second guessing your physician. You have trust your doctor, so that when s/he tells you it’s time to move to something else, you know it falls within what you have already discussed.

I do not agree that all babies come out when they are ready. In perfect conditions, yes, they do. And I am so glad that your first delivery happened with no major glitches (aside from all that labor! good for you for sticking it out!). But all you have to do is ask ab obstetrician about all the things that can go wrong and you start to understand that it is a very complex process, and when problems happen they quickly endanger the life of both mother and child.

Progressing in labor can be subjective, but again… talk to your doctor. Not everyone is in the condition to push for 5 hours. I do not think I could do it. Honestly. BUt I am glad that you did. I am sure you can find someone here who will work with you,.