Birth

Yesterday I saw my first live birth. I was visiting a hospital near downtown Johannesburg to negotiate referral linkages for the new Post-Natal Clinic when we heard a shout down the corridor. A nurse ran off to attend to the patient in labor, and my co-worker reminded me that I wanted to see a birth and here was my opportunity.

Next thing I knew I had donned scrubs, and was watching a naked woman lying silently (yes, silent, save for a few grunts) on a bed as she delivered a baby girl. I do not consider myself a squeamish person though I must admit, I was feeling quite lightheaded watching this miracle of life and had midwifes and doctors alike shouting at me to "Breathe!" 

All in all it was an amazing experience, and even more amazing was bearing witness to the grit that black South African women have when it comes to childbirth. No pain meds, no partner (or family) standing at her side, no screaming at all. The midwife said she will collect the baby after about 6 hours, hop on a bus and head home. Amazing.

Above is a picture of a visit to a special needs classroom at the primary school next door to the clinic, where I went with a few social workers on Wednesday.