Birth Territory Theory Analysis

Several concepts from the Birth Territory theory can be applied to the critical situation that occurred in August 2013.
‘Terrain’ is referred to several times in the incident. During induction the woman was placed in a birthing suite for early and active labor. A hospital-birthing suite closely resembles a ‘surveillance room’. Birthing suite rooms are designed to closely monitor the mother and her babies throughout the course of the labor via maternal and fetal heart rate monitoring, contraction monitoring, blood pressure monitoring, etc. The mother in labor was restricted to remaining in the bed at all times because of the constant monitoring, she did not have access to the outdoors, and she was only permitted to have ice chips because …show more content…
The concepts are clear and concise in what they propose for birthing. For example a ‘sanctum’ is a homely environment that will provide comfort, confidence, safety, and a sense of self when used, while a ‘surveillance room’ is clinical/sterile environment in which the staff has easy accessibility for their needs, but the mother does not. Another strength of the theory is that it is very easy to incorporate into actual midwifery practice. The theory was derived from empirical data and reflections collected by midwives, therefore it is a clear reflection of the theory in practice. For instance, ‘integrative power’ can be easily integrated into care when the mother, her partner, the midwife, and medical personnel all work together to incorporate patient-centered care. This theory is also very useful because it offers clear guidelines for midwifery practice and care during labor. For example, ‘midwifery guardianship’ is a clear concept that explains the importance of safeguarding the mothers birthing process through being mindful of her convictions and sense of self. Lastly, a strength of this theory is that the conceptualization of these concepts and sub-concepts draws attention to areas of care that need improvement. The conceptualization of a ‘surveillance room’ allows labor and delivery personnel to examine potential changes that can be made to support a birthing environment that more closely resembles a ‘sanctum’. For instance, typically hospital birthing suits, which closely resemble ‘surveillance rooms’ have their own personal washroom with accessible soaking tubs and offer birthing accessories such as peanut balls, birth balls, and squat bars. Although these suites are still considered a ‘surveillance rooms’, they incorporate aspects seen in ‘sanctums’ to improve the mothers’ sense of self, and ultimately patient