Childbirth becoming family affair with as many as 15 in birthing suite

IT’S a growing trend in the sacred occasion of childbirth, one one of Brisbane’s most prominent obstetricians finds it disturbing.

GIVING birth has turned into a real social occasion with hubbies, kids, family, photographers and even babysitters piling into the birthing suite to share in the miracle of life.

But Brisbane obstetrician Gino Pecoraro says the trend of crowdbirthing is misguided, and hospital staff would prefer no more than two people in attendance.

“You can’t just invite whoever you like into a birthing suite – everything must be discussed with hospital staff in advance,” Dr Pecoraro said.

“The reality is that the birth of a child can turn from a happy and jovial event into a frightening situation in a few minutes.

“Medical staff do not want to be tripping over family members.

“Having children in the room can add stress to the mother. I think the situation can be very confronting for children.”

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The doctor says the largest number he has seen in the birthing suite is seven.

Hypnobirthing expert and Gold Coast midwife Amanda Bude has worked with 15 family and friends in attendance at the birth.

Toowoomba mum of three Alecia Staines believes a baby’s birth should be a family affair and had seven in attendance at the water birth of son Kingsley at Toowoomba Hospital.

“For me, childbirth is normal and natural and I would not want to exclude my children from the experience,” Ms Staines said.

Newborn Kinglsey Staines meets his big brother for the first time in the birthing suite. Picture: Jen Shipston

In the lead-up to the arrival of Kingsley, mum showed her children, aged four and six, some birthing videos.

“I didn’t want them to be uncomfortable or upset,” she said.

“But in the end they were only in the suite for an hour and a half before Kingsley arrived. And it was special that his big brother was the first to welcome him to the world.”

As well as her birthing partner, midwife and obstetrician, a photographer was present to record the occasion.

Alecia Staines with newborn Kingsley, Lawson, 6, and Tully, 4. Pic: David Martinelli

Originally published as Childbirth becoming family affair with as many as 15 in birthing suite