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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Pushed summary
Jennifer Block
Brief summary
Pushed by Jennifer Block is a thought-provoking exploration of the modern maternity care system. Block sheds light on the medicalization of childbirth and the potential consequences for women and their babies.
Topics
Table of Contents
Pushed
Summary of key ideas
Challenging the Norms of Maternity Care
In Pushed, Jennifer Block takes us on a journey through the American maternity care system, challenging the norms and practices that have become standard. She begins by highlighting the alarming rise in cesarean section rates, which have more than doubled in the past decade, and the overuse of medical interventions such as induction and epidurals. Block argues that these interventions are often unnecessary and can lead to complications for both mother and baby.
Block delves into the history of childbirth in America, tracing the shift from home births attended by midwives to hospital births managed by obstetricians. She argues that this transition was driven more by economic and professional interests than by concerns for women's health and safety. The medicalization of childbirth, she contends, has led to a culture of fear around natural birth and a lack of respect for women's autonomy and choices.
Exploring the Impact of Medical Interventions
Block then explores the impact of medical interventions on the birthing process. She discusses how induction, often performed for non-medical reasons, can lead to longer and more painful labors, increasing the likelihood of further interventions. She also examines the widespread use of epidurals, which can interfere with the natural progression of labor and increase the risk of instrumental deliveries.
Block's investigation extends to the rising popularity of elective cesarean sections, challenging the notion that this procedure is a safe and convenient alternative to vaginal birth. She highlights the potential risks associated with cesarean sections, including increased maternal mortality and complications in subsequent pregnancies.
Advocating for Informed Choice and Midwifery Care
Throughout Pushed, Block advocates for informed choice and the importance of women being active participants in their birthing experiences. She argues that women should be provided with comprehensive information about the risks and benefits of different birthing options, allowing them to make decisions that align with their preferences and values.
Block also emphasizes the value of midwifery care, which is often marginalized within the medical system. She highlights the evidence supporting midwifery-led care as a safe and effective option for low-risk pregnancies, and the need for greater integration of midwives into the mainstream maternity care system.
Proposing Solutions for a Better Maternity Care System
In the latter part of the book, Block proposes a range of solutions to improve the American maternity care system. She calls for greater regulation of medical interventions, increased access to midwifery care, and the establishment of birth centers as an alternative to hospital births. She also advocates for changes in medical education and the culture of obstetrics to prioritize evidence-based care and respect for women's autonomy.
Ultimately, Pushed serves as a powerful critique of the current state of maternity care in America and a call to action for change. Block urges us to reevaluate our approach to childbirth, placing women's rights, choices, and well-being at the center of maternity care. She envisions a future where childbirth is viewed as a natural, empowering process, rather than a medical emergency to be managed and controlled.
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What is Pushed about?
Pushed by Jennifer Block delves into the medicalization of childbirth in the United States. Through extensive research and personal stories, Block uncovers the alarming truth about the rise in C-sections, inductions, and other interventions that have become routine in hospitals. She challenges the status quo and advocates for empowering women to make informed choices about their birthing experiences.
Pushed Review
Pushed (2007) by Jennifer Block is a book that sheds light on the modern childbirth experience and challenges the conventional medical practices surrounding it. Here's why this book is a worthwhile read:
- Overflowing with eye-opening research and interviews, it provides deep insights into the realities of childbirth today, empowering readers to make informed decisions.
- By unmasking the profit-driven nature of the medical system that often disregards women's autonomy and well-being, it exposes the flaws in the current birthing culture.
- Provocative and thought-provoking, it unapologetically explores the social, economic, and political factors that influence the way we give birth, ensuring a captivating and enlightening read.
Who should read Pushed?
- Expectant mothers seeking a deeper understanding of the modern childbirth system
- Healthcare professionals looking to challenge and improve maternity care practices
- Advocates for women’s reproductive rights and informed decision-making during pregnancy and labor
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Pushed FAQs
What is the main message of Pushed?
The main message of Pushed is to shed light on the medicalization of childbirth and to advocate for a more holistic and empowering approach.
How long does it take to read Pushed?
The reading time for Pushed varies depending on the reader's speed. However, you can get the key insights from the Blinkist summary in just 15 minutes.
Is Pushed a good book? Is it worth reading?
Pushed is a thought-provoking and informative book that challenges the status quo of childbirth practices. It's definitely worth reading for anyone interested in this topic.
Who is the author of Pushed?
Jennifer Block is the author of Pushed.
What to read after Pushed?
If you're wondering what to read next after Pushed, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- How Children Succeed by Paul Tough
- Becoming Attached by Robert Karen
- All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior
- The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber
- Minimalist Parenting by Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest
- Moms Mean Business by Erin Baebler and Lara Galloway
- Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
- Screamfree Parenting by Hal Edward Runkel
- Getting to 50/50 by Sharon Meers and Joanna Strober
- The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller