Episode 112 -- The Natural Childbirth Movement

The Bell Jar is a thinly veiled autobiography that follows Esther Greenwood, a talented and ambitious college student, as she experiences a mental breakdown. The novel begins with Esther's unfulfilling summer internship as a guest editor for a women's magazine in New York City, where she grapples with identity and societal norms. Upon returning home, Esther's mental health deteriorates, leading to several suicide attempts and eventual hospitalization. The novel explores her treatment, including electroconvulsive therapy, and her gradual recovery under the care of a progressive psychiatrist. It also critiques the limited roles available to women in the 1950s and the brutal psychiatric treatments of the time.

In 'Push Back: Guilt in the Age of Natural Parenting', Dr. Amy Tuteur critiques the natural parenting movement by debunking its myths and revealing its often misogynistic roots. She argues that this movement capitalizes on parental guilt, promoting unrealistic expectations around childbirth and parenting. Tuteur advocates for evidence-based decision-making, empowering parents to choose methods that are right for them without fear of judgment.

Witches, Midwives, and Nurses explores the historical suppression of women as healers, tracing their roles from medieval Europe to the rise of modern medicine in the United States. The book argues that women's traditional healing practices were marginalized by male-dominated medical institutions, leading to their exclusion from professional medicine. It also examines contemporary issues in healthcare and the resurgence of interest in alternative healing practices.

In 'Of Woman Born,' Adrienne Rich delves into the complexities of motherhood, distinguishing between the personal experience of mothering and the institutionalized expectations imposed by patriarchal society. The book, originally published in 1976, is a powerful blend of research, theory, and self-reflection, exploring how motherhood is shaped by historical, social, and political factors. Rich critiques the ways in which motherhood has been subjugated and commodified, advocating for women's autonomy and liberation. The work remains significant today, offering profound insights into the intersections of motherhood, feminism, and personal identity.

Ina May Gaskin's 'Spiritual Midwifery' is a seminal work that emphasizes the holistic and spiritual aspects of childbirth. Drawing on her experiences at The Farm, a commune in Tennessee, Gaskin advocates for natural childbirth practices, highlighting the importance of intuition, community, and minimal medical intervention. The book combines practical advice with empowering narratives, encouraging women to trust their bodies and embrace the transformative potential of birth. Gaskin challenges the prevailing medicalized view of childbirth, promoting a return to traditional midwifery practices. With personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, the book encourages a deep connection between mind, body, and spirit during the birthing process. It remains an influential resource for midwives, doulas, and expectant parents seeking a more natural and empowering birth experience.