A One Day Conference on September 11th, 2001

Birthrites: Healing After Caesarean Inc. is presenting a one day conference, titled "Caesarean Birth: Myths and Realities", being held in Perth, WA, on September 11th, 2001. It will celebrate the inaugural National Caesarean Awareness Day and hopefully raise awareness of the pros, cons, risks and consequences of caesarean birth. It is hoped that the day will also promote recognition of the many birth choices available after experiencing a caesarean/s birth. Greater awareness of the common effects of c/section birth is necessary to dispel the myths society naively perpetrates.

Briefly, the aims of the Conference are:

Educate women and society of the realities of caesarean birth

Provide information to families, friends and professionals regarding the emotions surrounding caesarean birth.

Promote the safety and viability of alternatives to caesarean birth, for future births, in the majority of cases. (eg, VBAC birth).

Importance of not allowing the 'day' to be perceived as 'anti-caesarean'.

Guest Speakers:

A local Politician, supportive of improved maternity services for W.A.

Several Midwives, conducting talks, workshops and participating in a discussion panel.

A local Obstetrician.

A local GP Obstetric Practitioner.

A local birth/parenting advocate.

Birthrites' Representatives.

The philosophy of the day is supportive and understanding. Participants must agree to be aware, and be respectful, of the strong emotions surrounding the fundamental life experience of birth - in it's many forms. There needs to be an increase of positive attitudes (less focus on failure) and an acknowledgment of the individual's emotional needs as well as their physical ones. In an effort to improve maternity services for all families change needs to be encouraged, from the individual's right to informed choice up through all levels of Government.

For more information about the day visit http://birthrites.edsite.com.au/.