Thursday 16th July 2009 News Index

Dr Yehudi Gordon introduced birthing pools to the UK in 1981, with 30 years experience in the world of maternity care, he is concerned about the 'Western' approach to bringing up our young and how that might impact our adult life. At birth, humans are the least developed mammals on the planet, if a baby feels secure, feels its needs are met and bonded to a close family unit, it will flourish and be happy. Dr Gordon believes that babies who are separated early from their mothers will suffer a range of psychological problems as an adult, like aggression and self-loathing.

What does he recommend? Mothers need to stay 'in tune' with their baby, allowing the baby to sleep in her room if needed. The first two years are particularly important and mothers should avoid going back to work during this time. A mother's intuition about her baby can only develop if she is allowed to be with her child and learn about its needs. More information can be found at www.babiesknow.com, a programme that aims to encourage bonding.

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To an extent, yes it is very important for a mother to spend a lot of time with their baby but only if by doing so they are able to offer good quality and empathic care. Some mothers can feel overwhelmed by the task or feel isolated at home, then as result suffer depression which would have a detrimental effect on the care given. I found that going to work part time a good compromise, but I am very lucky to have my children's grandmother look after them whilst I work and she makes a very good mother substitute.

spennell2009 07/08/2009

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