Giving birth in the car--Canada way out front
By: Drivers.com staff
Date: 2003-05-24
Since most women try to get to the hospital to have their baby it's not surprising that many babies would be born in automobiles. However, for some reason, Canada seem to be ahead of other countries in this regard, according to a new survey.
The survey, conducted by Ipsos-Reid for Jiffy Lube International, found that approximately one in every 55 women in Canada has given birth en route to the hospital or clinic. The Jiffy Lube survey found that 16 percent of the mothers polled actually drove themselves to the hospital or clinic to give birth
Birthing expert Henci Goer offers some practical advice to expectant mothers who are concerned about giving birth in a car. She stresses pulling over to the side of the road, calling 911 for help and, above all else, staying calm.
"If the baby is coming fast, you are better off driving safely and pulling off the road rather than driving dangerously to try and get the mother to the hospital, she said. The natural birthing process has worked safely for millions of years. You needlessly endanger the mother, the baby and everyone else on the road if you panic and start running red lights and weaving in and out of traffic.
Author of the book The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth," Ms. Goer suggests planning for the possibility of an emergency birth by keeping a few essential items--such as clean towels or blankets, plastic bags or newspaper to protect the upholstery, and a cell phone--in the car at all times. She also recommends practicing the route to the hospital or clinic both during the day and at night since "things can look different at night." She also advises keeping at least a quarter tank of gas in the car. "This is no time to stop at the gas station because you're on empty," she said.
Women who want to learn more about preparing for an emergency birth in a car and driving safely during and after pregnancy can find additional tips on the new women's channel at JiffyLube.com. The new section of the Jiffy Lube Web site also contains car care and safety information relevant to the lifestyles and needs of all women drivers.
For more informaton about the Survey contact Cindy Landers of JiffyLube International
at
Tel: 713/546-6272
email: cindy.landers@pzlqs.com
or
Matt paine of Cone Inc. at
Tel: 617-272-8314
email: mpaine@coneinc.com
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