Social media and birthing babies

neuroms · Apr 3, 2011

I hardly know what to think. I'm both awed by our capability and willingness for an open society and, at the same time, disgusted by the vanity, insincerity and lie of it. I want to share moments, but I want them to be real moments.

LilyGirlie · Apr 3, 2011

No different than putting on your makeup in the morning before going to the grocery store or doctors office or any of the countless things women doll themselves up for. I don't think that it is fair or right that women feel pressured to do this during labor nor do I think it is our place as nurses to make them feel even more insecure for wanting to do this. It is still a real moment with makeup on. If having their nails done and makeup on makes them more comfortable during their labor than more power to them!

Long Term Care Columnist / Guide · Apr 3, 2011

Twenty-odd years ago, I gave birth to our fourth child in full makeup, but it wasn't intentional.......I was merely fortunate enough to have had the time to bathe, shave, and put my face on before I went to the hospital. However, my looks didn't matter one whit to me when they put that baby on my belly after 7 hours of unmedicated labor and an easy delivery, and he held his head up and looked around the delivery room---all that mattered to me was HIM. And I'm sure it's the same way with the vast majority of new moms, no matter how dialed-in they are to pop culture. I wouldn't worry too much about this trend.

LongislandRN23 · Apr 3, 2011

Designer hospital gowns? Like Rachael Zoe said: "When I give birth make sure I am wearing my vintage Chanel cape". I do not think a designer hospital gown is needed, but a vintage Chanel cape sounds fabulous! My sister did not have time to put on her make up when delivering my nephew, but 30 min later the pics were all over facebook!

tntrn, ASN, RN · Apr 3, 2011

Twenty-odd years ago, I gave birth to our fourth child in full makeup, but it wasn't intentional.......I was merely fortunate enough to have had the time to bathe, shave, and put my face on before I went to the hospital. However, my looks didn't matter one whit to me when they put that baby on my belly after 7 hours of unmedicated labor and an easy delivery, and he held his head up and looked around the delivery room---all that mattered to me was HIM. And I'm sure it's the same way with the vast majority of new moms, no matter how dialed-in they are to pop culture. I wouldn't worry too much about this trend.

I just picture even more, dare I say unnecessary, people in the room for staff to trip over. And if they are doing hair and nails, are they bringing in hairsprays and nail sealants (you know, the stuff we are not allowed to use ourselves?)

This whole piece, for me, points out that it's not about the baby at all....but about the attention the mom gets/wants. My DIL tells me about a new show called Pregnant in Heels (Bravo starting Tuesday I think)....same idea. Designer moms, designer babies. Might be interesting, but I will keep an emesis basis handy!

I don't see it being a big problem where I work, but at the big places? It sounds they are already on board.

tntrn, ASN, RN · Apr 3, 2011

Here's another thought, though (what is it about a hot, steamy shower and deep thinking?): OB units throughout the land can look forward to a exemption from HIPAA because the families are taking care of all the PR for us!