Midwife charged in death
But some local women defend Susan Merrill for illegal baby deliveries.
By Michelle Dynes
mdynes@wyomingnews.com
CHEYENNE - A local midwife has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and practicing medicine without a license after a baby died last year.
Midwifery has been illegal in Wyoming since 2003.
The Laramie County District Attorney's Office formally charged Susan M. Merrill, 52, in April.
According to the affidavit of probable cause filed in Laramie County Circuit Court, she delivered approximately 400 babies during 23-24 years as a lay-midwife.
Court records indicate that Merrill allowed Randi Peterson to have a ruptured membrane, or amniotic sack, for about 33 hours before delivery, increasing the risk of infection for mother and daughter.
According to the affidavit of probable cause, Merrill never suggested or recommended medical care after the birth of Maggie Peterson, thereby leading to the baby's death.
The delivery took place in a hotel room at 1781 Fleishli Parkway between April 24 and April 26, 2006, according to the affidavit.
Cheyenne Police Department Detective J.F. Gay III said about 18 hours after Randi Peterson's membrane ruptured, her husband, Eric Peterson, asked Merrill about the risk of infection. According to the affidavit, Merrill admitted there was a risk of infection but stated, "We don't have to worry, Randi, everything is going to be OK."
Merrill posted a $5,000 cash bond in Circuit Court on June 1.
Merrill will appear in court for a preliminary hearing later this month.
Ellen Piver said she was shocked by the charges.
The Cheyenne resident had three children delivered by Merrill without complications. She said her last child was born in 2004, and she had no indication that midwifery was illegal in Wyoming.
She added that she didn't know the practice was even threatened or if there was an opportunity for public comment on changes to the law.
"I went with a midwife because I wanted options other than a hospital," Piver said.
At home, she was able to walk around the room and wasn't given intravenous drugs.
A preliminary hearing was initially set for Friday afternoon, and a group of about 40 women and their children planned to appear in court on Merrill's behalf. The case was continued until a later date, however.
Kari Snell said she thought her home would be a better environment, and Merrill delivered her son in April 2004. After giving birth to two children in the hospital, she wanted an alternative.
The Wyoming Legislature defeated a bill in 2005 that would have allowed certified midwives to deliver babies in Wyoming.
"I had known (the bill failed)," Snell said. "That wasn't going to change my choice."
Krista Blaxton said she had some complications during her child's birth last January, but Merrill handled the situation professionally, helping her deliver a healthy baby boy, she said.
Patricia Kopf said she had her first home birth with Merrill last year, describing the experience as "wonderful."
"Sue seemed very experienced and comfortable," she said. "I hope the charges are dropped and this can be a first step toward home birth being more accepted."
Reader Comments
Mom in WY wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:31 PM:
" I have had 3 healthy babies in the last 4 years and i am currently studying to become a CNM. After being forced to have a repeat C-Section by the Doctors and Midwives in Colorado I believe that it is absolutely important that women fight for our rights to birth how and where we want without pressure from the medical community! In most situations a home birth or birth center is much more safe and less stressful on the baby and mom. In my situation i could have exercised my right to refuse surgery but no doctor would have attended my birth so in my opinion my only choices were home birth (which I 100% support but would have been very dangerous and life threatening in my situation) or a c-section. If we continue to allow doctors to be the only deciding factor in delivery we are giving up rights that we as women and as CNMs deserve! To close after my "sterile" hospital delivery i was discharged with an antibiotic resistant staff infection and an infection in my sloppily closed C-Section incision - wish I could say that was unusual but most people I have come "
honesty101 wrote on Jul 15, 2007 9:03 AM:
" My condolences to the parents. I think once again the red neck good ole boy attitudes of Wyoming are getting in the way of what is natural, normal, and something they really can't control. Women have given birth much longer than hospitals have been around and will continue to do so no matter what the male members of our society try to control. Assisting a birth is not and can not be considered "practicing" medicine any more than holding a toddler over the toilet to help them urinate, they are all natural processes of life. My prayers are with the family and Sue, as well as our ignorant leaders of this state. "
E.M. wrote on Jul 14, 2007 1:32 AM:
" my husband and I chose a home birth, and when my midwife thought there was something wrong, she sent me for an emergency ultrasound. They said all was well, and go ahead with the home birth. My boy was 10lbs, 5oz, and born without a heartbeat, and not breathing. So bluish purple. It is thanks to my midwife that my son is here today. She did CPR, and brought him back to life. The ultrasound Dr. missed an enlarged heart which would have meant an immediate c-sec. He also had bleeding kidneys, a non functioning liver, blood on the brain and a dislocated shoulder from birth. All of which his group of neo-natologists said should have been avoided by a c-sec. They also said there was no way an ultrasound should have missed and enlarged heart. Let's hear it for medical science. I would go for a midwife and a home birth anytime! "
youareidiots wrote on Jun 30, 2007 1:05 PM:
" I'd post a comment but will not waste time doing so if it is to be picked over and potentially discarded by people with far less education than I. But don't forget to donate to your local corporate medical mafia today or--they tell me--you might 'rupture a sac'. "
Shannon wrote on Jun 27, 2007 10:04 AM:
" "Allowing a ruptured sac to be unattended to is negligence."
That was posted by someone, well when I went into premature labor with my second child (I was living in Cheyenne and got transfered to Denver) they told me they could keep me up to two weeks there without delivering. I only went two days but that was still at least 48 hrs after my membranes ruptured and my son had an infection from it, So are you going to tell my ST Lukes Presbytarian hospital in Denver is also negligent?
Sometimes accidents happen, look how many babies she delivered no problem, even with the same mom who's baby just died. The only thing I think she is at fault for is practicing illegally, babies die all the time in the hospitals but you dont see dr's getting the death penalty or prison time. "
CNM wrote on Jun 27, 2007 8:54 AM:
" I'm very disturbed by the accusations (both for and against Susan and the system) in the comments posted regarding this case. Unless the public has access to ALL of the facts including autopsy reports, testimony of experts and witnesses, and the truth of what actually happened, we can't possibly pass appropriate judgement. As a CNM, I have only caught babies in the hospital and birth center settings. However, I fully support every family's right to birth in whatever place and with the birth attendant they choose. The US model of modern medicine has not proven to be the leaders in the world in improving maternal and fetal statistics, but midwifery certainly has. We can use this terrible tragedy as an avenue of communication to help bring about some change to the laws that might inhibit real collaboration between doctors and midwives who could work together to provide the absolute best of care when things aren't perfect. My heart does go out to the family, community, and the midwife. I truly hope this brings about some positive changes. "
Jolene wrote on Jun 25, 2007 8:38 AM:
" A medical degree does not ensure that your baby will not die. A "real doctor" can't magically bring a baby back to life. The U.S. ranked 36 in infant mortality rates. We are far behind other industrialized countries and those countries have midwives and home birth as options.
I would wait for an autopsy report or some other evidence before I would start condemning someone I know nothing about. This article is inconclusive and sketchy with the details.
As a parent myself if someone told me my child was fine and I didn't need to see a doctor, I would still do what I felt was right despite the advice given. I'm an adult and when it comes to my child I seek out medical attention if I feel it is necessary no matter what anyone else tells me.I'm responsible for my child's safety and no one could keep me from getting my child help if I thought it was necessary. "
Jarrod wrote on Jun 23, 2007 11:36 PM:
" Maybe while Susan is in prison, she can earn her medical degree. She is at fault, should have assisted the family to the hospital where real doctors work. Death penalty! "
Jimbo wrote on Jun 21, 2007 8:52 AM:
" If everything in this article is accurate, then Sue is rightfully charged. Allowing a ruptured sac to be unattended to is negligence. The mother and father inquired into it and were told it would be ok. Don't let this woman walk, Cheyenne!! "
MJ wrote on Jun 20, 2007 5:26 PM:
" Almost all the comments supporting Sue are by those who are affiliated with her church?? I don't even know her, let alone what church she's with, and I doubt plenty others do either. Not only that, but the truth is that most of us have no idea of the whole story...the news article in no way gives a picture of anything that she did-or didn't do that would be considered her fault. If parents choose to leave the hospital in less time than a Dr. wants, and "something happens" does that put (him) at fault??
S0.. if Sue was negligient during or after this birth, someone will have to explain better than the article before I would condem her ability! I'm supporting legalizing midwives practicing at home, and the ability to choose where and with whom you wish to give birth. "
Sherry wrote on Jun 20, 2007 2:06 PM:
" I think homebirthing families understand this issue better than most people. "Annonomus" seems to be implying that we are a bunch of stupid ignorant females who don't know what is good for us. Have you even stopped to consider that maybe the Peterson's made the best choice they could in their sittuation? Their baby could just have easily gotten sick in the hospital and their baby could just have easily died in the hospital. Sue does everything in her power to prevent infection. And no, Mr. "This did not have to happen" we are not all members of a common religion. We are not cult members, we do not practice voodoo, we do not dance naked in the moonlight or sacrifice animals or whatever you are implying... we are ordinary women; just women, wives and mothers and if you have a problem with women, do not take it out on Sue. Sue is not a danger to women, ignorance is. This happens to be a conflict of ideology. Thankfully the facts support Sue and she will more than likely be vindicated. The state of WY has no right to try to outlaw free choice and intelligent thought. "
Anonymous wrote on Jun 20, 2007 10:22 AM:
" It seems that most individuals commenting here do not understand the issue at hand. It is not whether homebirth and lay midwifery should be legal or illegal. The issue is that Sue Merrill acted negligently during this birth and her negligence caused the death of a baby. I am certain Sue is a great midwife and a nice person. However, she should be held accountable for her negligence in this case regardless of anyone's belief about home birth. Midwifery and homebirth are not the real issues. It seems everyone is trying to shift the blame away from Sue and put it on the government. The government was not negligent...Sue was. "
This didn't have to happen... wrote on Jun 19, 2007 10:36 PM:
" I think it's funny how almost all the comments supporting Ms. Merrill are by people who are affiliated with the same church as she is. I've heard numerous stories about Sue's negligent behavior and holier-than-thou attitude towards professional, educated MD's for decades. Sadly, I'm surprised it took this long for something to happen as she's been a danger for years. It's such a shame that an innocent child died due to her ignorance. "
Sherry wrote on Jun 19, 2007 4:30 PM:
" I think people who are looking at this issue for the very first time, are probabbly assuming that safety in childbirth is determined by proximity to the hospital in case something goes wrong. By this logic, the safest place for a birh is the hospital. However this assumption is absolutely incorrect. The safety of childbirth is actually determined by only two things; mortality and morbity. The mortality rate for full term infants in the United States is currently 8 per 1000. The mortality rate for full term infants born at home is signifficantly less. I have had two births with obstetricians and 4 with midwives. Both of my doctor attended births were traumatic. My uterus was inverted (pulled inside-out by force exerted on the umbilical cord), I hemorhaged both times and suffered postpartum depression. With my midwife attended births there was minimal blood loss, no postpartum depression and zero trauma. My primary reason for choosing midwifery care is to avoid trauma and to give birth naturally. Sue Merrill attended my home birth of twins in Jan. of 2004. I carried them 39 weeks and Sue was professional during the birth. Everyone should have this choice. "
WyoNurse wrote on Jun 19, 2007 11:28 AM:
" As a mother who has had three homebirths with CPM's and a CNM student, I completely support LEGAL, CERTIFIED, and REGULATED homebirth practices in Wyoming. Those who have not had proper training and who have questionable practices should NEVER be allowed to practice the art of midwifery. "
Kellie wrote on Jun 17, 2007 5:02 PM:
" I have given birth to three very beautiful baby girls at home, once in TX and twice in Wy. All three births were wonderful! I am so grateful for the loving hands and soothing presence of our midwives. Home birth needs to be an option for families, for people like myself who do not feel comfortable in hospital environments and who need the extra loving care, the personal one on one that a midwife can provide. Our midwives have always proven to be very knowledgeable. We should have the right to choose to birth as we see best for our own bodies "
KY wrote on Jun 17, 2007 1:06 AM:
" Also- to finish, not only did I have the breech, I also had the retained placenta with my home birth of twins, and it was 2 placentas together. I was having trouble delivering it, but Sue was able to get it out ok.
The placenta was on the front wall of my uterus, so that if a c-section had been done, I would have been in the hospital for weeks- who would have taken car eof the twins then? "
KY wrote on Jun 17, 2007 12:41 AM:
" It is law in CO for the licenced midwives that they cannot deliver breech presentations, but must transport to hospitals. This is part of state licensing and legalization- there are set rules to follow.
I did have a footling breech delivered at home- there would have been no time for transport anyway, but it was a second twin, where the first was bigger, and had made the way already, so the breech tiwn (who probably turned breech after the first came out) was out in 4 pushes. Doctors and midwives are supposed to be trained in delivering breeches, however, most doctors will opt to take a breech by c-section as it is easier on their part. (not easier on the recovery for the mom, of course).
Also, childbirth "can be dangerous" is going a bit far- childbirth is a very natural process- the MOM delivers the baby, not hte doctor or the midwife, and this is how it has been since the beginning of time, and families and midwives assisted in the births for much longer than we have had hospital care. Women have to eat right and take responsibility for their pregnancy prenatal to expect to deliver@home too. "
Joan wrote on Jun 16, 2007 3:26 PM:
" How do midwives handle footling breech births? What about a retained or partially retained placenta? If a woman is healthy, which I was for my 2 sons who were born in 2 different hospitals in MT in the above circumstances, the woman has to accept the risks with either place of delivery. Informed consent & a medical history is invaluable to both doctors & midwives. Childbirth can be very dangerous no matter where a baby is delivered. The emphasis is on "can be." There should be room for both choices in all states. "
the doe wrote on Jun 15, 2007 2:08 PM:
" I had ruptured membranes for four days. I ended up having a cesarean only after my midwife panicked.
Had I excused her from my home, I am certain my son would have been born without significant events after 3 cesareans in my home!
This midwife is not to blame. If vaginal exams were limited during the 33 hours, the baby and mother had very little risk of infection.
What I'd like to know is if it was truly 33 hours, or if the midwife and couple are lying to limit liability. My midwife lied to the hospital about how long I'd had ROM. She told them 24 hours.
The only reason for the cesarean was that the hospital did not 'allow' vbacs. "
Peggy wrote on Jun 15, 2007 12:12 PM:
" They only problem that I have with a child being born at home, with a midwife present, is that the "midwife" should be respnsible enough to know when to have the child checked out at the hospital. I had a nephew die at home, shortly after birth, because the midwife said that the baby was just fine. My nephew had the right to a long and happy life, and it was taken away from him because of a lack of responsibility on the part of the midwife. Having a child at home or the hospital is any womans chose. And either one of them is fine. But responible people should be just that, responsible for their actions. "
JR wrote on Jun 15, 2007 7:53 AM:
" I was born in a hospital in the 1970s and my mother died during childbirth. The doctor left during labor to play golf and was unavailable when my mother passed. Bad things can happen in a hospital or at home, that's life. If people are concerned about their freedoms they need to monitor the legislature every time it is in session. Trust me the lobbyists are there every time. Email your legistlators! They don't know what their constituents are thinking on all the issues unless people participate. "
I Believe in the Hospitals wrote on Jun 15, 2007 7:36 AM:
" There is a reason that there are hospitals! A HOTEL? I would like to know if the hotel had any idea that this was going on? That right there tells you have safe this woman was being! I have 3 children of my own, all of them were born in Cheyenne, at the hospital! My last pregnancy was totally healthy until delivery and if it wasn’t for the doctor my daughter would have died! I love the staff at the hospital here in Cheyenne, and I think they do an awesome job! "
A Loving Mother wrote on Jun 15, 2007 7:34 AM:
" Most of the responses here are disgusting! “You choose to have your child at home. You accept the risks?” WHAT??? This is about a baby, a little human not a risk! Its parents responsibility to do everything possible to prevent the possible tragedies or problems that could arise and make sure they are doing everything possible to make delivery safe for their baby and the mom. Also someone wrote “The bottom line here is, giving birth at home doesn't make any money for the pharmaceutical industry or the doctors or hospitals. Look at the big picture” Yeah, the big picture is a baby, not about money! If a woman wants to risk her own life, that is on her. But NO ONE in the world has the right to risk the life of a child!
"
Brenda Parrish wrote on Jun 15, 2007 6:39 AM:
" In every country where midwives handle the majority of normal births, their statistics for infant mortality are always better than ours. Stop and think for two seconds about the controlling and intervention crazy medical system that midwives are in direct competition with and I think you will start to get the picture of who is really behind this witch-hunt.
Susan, I'm so sorry you are having to suffer for the cause. Praying for you daily! To the parents who lost the child--no one should have to suffer this loss, but being born at home with a competent midwife was not the cause. "
CNM wrote on Jun 14, 2007 5:18 PM:
" I am a CNM that practices in a hosptial setting. I feel attacked as a "member of the evil money grubbing medical profession" that seeks to control, intervene and assault people with drugs. I do many peaceful deliveries without intervention ormedications, but I have also seen a perfectly normal situation go bad and require immediate care. I fully support womens choices for birthing options but at the hands of those that do the right thing. What I am most frustrated by is the fact that so many people on this blog support Sue's apparent mishandling of this situation. Even a physician or CNM would be brought under scrutiny if they had acted in a negligent manner. "
someone in wy wrote on Jun 14, 2007 2:29 PM:
" You all act like hospitals are full of crazy people wanting to intervene. I was in a hospital in labor for 3 days and had my baby naturally. Even when the baby was in distress and had a prolapsed cord (which they wouldn't have know if I wasn't on a monitor in a hospital and would resulted in a stillborn death) they went to great lengths to intervene in a natural healthy way(while preping the ER just in case) What was a very scary moment resulted in a healthy birth. This would not have been the outcome if not in a hospital. "
CPM wrote on Jun 14, 2007 9:50 AM:
" CPM (certified profesional Midwives) should be legal in all states!! "
Bernadette Lynn wrote on Jun 14, 2007 8:52 AM:
" I find two things astounding about this case: one, that there is a civilised country where midwifery is actually illegal - unbelievable! Second, the emphasis on the woman's membranes being ruptured for 33 hours - the World Health Organisation says that expectant management is appropriate for longer than that.
While my heartfelt sympathy goes out to the parents, I do feel that perhaps the system which prevented the midwife having access to appropriate drugs and support, and made her unable to provide proper post-natal care should shoulder most of the blame. "
I Hate Hospitals wrote on Jun 13, 2007 11:41 PM:
" Re: 'Risks' of Homebirth-
"Do you want to give birth at home and run the miniscule risk of an emergency that might (but not neccessarily would) be better handled in the hospital, or do you want to give birth in the hospital and run the considerably increased risk of infection, the certainty of additional stress, and the near certain risk of having unnecessary (and potentially risky) interventions?"
-Henci Goer
Re: 'Choices'in Childbirth-
"Young, vulnerable, pregnant women assume they are receiving evidence-based care. The reassurance that they can choose pain relief during labor if they want it or that they can even have a cesarean birth if they want one gives women the illusion of choice. In truth, the choices are meaningful only within a very limited context of interventionist and therefore unsafe birth. In light of normal birth, they are pitiful gestures from a system in which the illusion of choice is the only real standard."
-Peggy O'Mara
www.myspace.com/hospitalhater2 "
Pamela Ford-Stevens wrote on Jun 13, 2007 2:46 PM:
" I had one hospital birth-C-section and one birth at a birth center attended by a midwife. The latter was everything I had hoped for and more. The bottom line is the government has no place in the decision about where a woman should birth her baby. It is a personal choice between a woman and her husband/partner. "
LDEM wrote on Jun 13, 2007 2:30 PM:
" But this is ok
LOS ANGELES - A judge dismissed a murder charge Tuesday against a University of Southern California student from Billings whose newborn son was found dead in a trash bin.
Holly Ashcraft, 22, hugged her lawyer after the ruling by Superior Court Judge Samuel Mayerson.
Prosecutors were likely to appeal the decision, "but for right now, we're just going to relish the victory," said Ashcraft's lawyer, Mark Geragos.
Deputy District Attorney Franco Baratta said he did plan to appeal.
Ashcraft was arrested in October 2005 after the newborn's body was found by a homeless man sifting through trash behind a restaurant-bar that was a popular USC student hangout.
An autopsy report concluded the baby had been born alive because there was air in its lungs. Geragos contended that it was stillborn.
It was the second time Ashcraft was linked to the death of a baby. In April 2004, she showed up at a Los Angeles hospital bleeding after having apparently given birth.
She claimed she had given birth to a stillborn, but the baby's body was never found and she was never arrested or charged in that case.
"
Jennifer wrote on Jun 13, 2007 2:28 PM:
" WY, and every other state, should liscense CPMs (Certified Professional Midwives). This liscensing would protect both moms & babies and midwives. It would help insure continuity of care in cases where a midwife needed to refer the client to a doctor. Homebirth can be a safe option, but only when legal. "
birthct@yahoo.com wrote on Jun 13, 2007 12:48 PM:
" Many comments here are based on fear and/or emotions not credible evidence.
Most midwives continually reach out to learn from more experienced midwives. Further, a hallmark of midwifery care is providing fully informed consent. Clear dialogue regarding birth care is key whether with midwifery or obstetrical care.
Regarding mom's membranes being ruptured for 33 hours: a study was done regarding women with tampons in a bathtub of colored water...the tampon remained 'clean.' Infection does not typically make its way INTO the uterus via the birth canal. Medical history credits a doctor who realized that doctors need to wash their hands when doing exams on laboring women. Doctors do more vaginal exams than MOST midwives!
Regarding mother's GBS status as a factor, it is NOT PROVEN that GBS infection in an infant occurs solely during labor. There is a little read case in particular of twins. ONE contracted GBS inutero. The other? Negative!
Legal status of midwifery notwithstanding facts and credible birth education not fear should be the basis for ALL birth information providers and opinions. "
MJ wrote on Jun 13, 2007 12:03 PM:
" As a home birther of 9 in NE, I can only say I have total sympathy for this family and midwife. Freedom in giving birth at home and allowing Midwives to practice will only come with those who are persistant in showing what we want, not passivally allowing others to tell us what to do, and wishing it was different. Does anyone REALLY think that everyone going to the hospital to have their babies because homebirth is "illigal" is going to change the laws to allow homebirth??? "
rosie@kacary.co.uk wrote on Jun 13, 2007 11:17 AM:
" Why on earth is midwifery illegal? Women need midwives, they always have and always will. I hope for the sake of women and babies and midwives everywhere this woderful midwife continues to practice and that wyoming joins the 21st century. Independent Midwife UK "
anonymous wrote on Jun 13, 2007 11:14 AM:
" Sure, women should have the right to choose. That's a choice that shouldn't be taken away. However, what most of you don't know is that Ms. Merrill has had other babies with complications due to her gross negligence. Maggie is perhaps the first baby who has died (or the first we know of), but not the first who has had complications and/or a near fatal delivery. Just because you had a good experience with her does not negate the fact that others have had very bad experiences, and others have lost their children or nearly lost their children. It's about accountability. You choose to have your child at home, you accept the risks, and that's well and good. You see a midwife and that changes the dynamic because she had a legal obligation to do what was best for the mother and child. Letting someone have ruptured membranes for 33 hours was not in the best interest of either. "
Chris Fitz wrote on Jun 13, 2007 10:46 AM:
" I can't comment on the case itself, but in general, delivering a baby has got to be the most divine act of civil disobedience in a country gone mad with control by lawyers, insurance companies and doctors. At least there are people committed to being part of the natural process of God's creation! We had two at home and are thankful for that as well as the backup that Western medicine can provide. "
pfmid wrote on Jun 13, 2007 10:39 AM:
" Maybe parents in Nebraska could have even better midwifery care locally if we had a birth center, or even ANY home birth options. The only way you are to be able to have a home birth in Nebraska is to go unnasisted! We Have NO Options Here!!!
from
"Controled in Nebraska" "
Mary Eberle Spokane Washington wrote on Jun 13, 2007 10:23 AM:
" I had my first baby at home with a midwife. It was an 82 hour labor. If I had him in the hospital he would have been cut out. My second baby was at home with out a midwife. What would the state of WY do to me? Free women now. Let us deliver babys how babys have been delivered since the begining. "
JAP wrote on Jun 13, 2007 10:18 AM:
" I have been involved with midwife attended births both in a hospital setting and in a home setting. My sister has had all 3 of her children at home (in TX and WY) by personal choice. In each case, the midwife was well-trained, knowlegable and attentive. The midwife attending each delivery carefully monitored the baby with a doppler and recorded the my sister's temperature, blood pressure, etc. at regular intervals. Each birh also had a registered nurse in attendance. My sister received excellent care by her midwives equivalent to the care received by my friend in a hospital. It is sad that the Peterson's lost their baby, but as parents they made a choice regading their delivery. Babies also die in hospital settings. I know a family who had a normal pregnacy and a hospital delivery. Their apparently healthy son died in the hospital a few hours after birth. Parents should be allowed to choose their birthing option. "
GS wrote on Jun 13, 2007 9:51 AM:
" I have personally known 2 women over a period of 15+ years who have had multiple successful home deliveries. Their choice was for personal reasons, not lack of insurance, etc. Some of the the deliveries had complications, but they were professionally handled by the knowlegable and caring midwives. It should be a woman's right to choose the kind of delivery she desires in a healthy pregnacy. Why is it that a young girl can be transported across state lines for an abortion without parent approval, but a family cannot make an informed choice regarding the birth of their child? "
Aimee wrote on Jun 13, 2007 9:50 AM:
" I whole-heartedly support homebirths and the use of a midwife. But I do not believe it is right to break the law. No matter how strongly you may feel about a certain subject. I believe that this woman and other midwives whom practice illegally are giving the rest a bad name. How are we to convince the rest of the world that homebirths are safe and better if we act in a rebellious manner that sacrafice our morals and perhaps the lives of children and mothers? On the other hand I hope there may be individulas out there whose opinion has not been swayed because of this woman's careless acts. If we are reasonable people we will come to see that homebirths are completely safe and allow women to exercise our gift that is known as freedom. "
writer mg wrote on Jun 13, 2007 8:35 AM:
" It is so unfortunate that some states, like Wyoming and like where I live, that make it illegal to attend a homebirth. It is of course safer to have a birth attended by a skilled provider than to have it not attended--yet the first is illegal while the other is not in Wyoming! It is one of the saddest things when a baby dies. Unfortunately, in this country, babies and mothers still do die in childbirth--and at rate worse than almost any other industrialized country. However, there have been very good studies done (see the BMJ study on N. American midwifery) that show homebirths attended by skilled midwives are just as safe or safer for healthy, low-risk women and their babies than hospital births. However, nothing is a guarantee. Would the outcome have been different if midwifery were embraced, birth centers and homebirth legalized, and women empowered to get educated and take responsibility for their birth experiences? Probably not, but maybe. My sympathy goes out to the mother, father, and midwife in this situation. "
LDEM wrote on Jun 13, 2007 7:44 AM:
" The parents took on this responsibility, they had others in their family that had used Sue's services and since Nebraska is illegal THEY chose to come to Cheyenne for the delivery. They were counseled to stay a bit longer afterwards and they choose to go home when they did. There is much more to this then is known. The fact is-things happen and no one can prevent everything. Sue is very consousiousness and does all she can to make things safe but even with all the testing in the world, you can't prevent everything. Babies have dies from being put into a carseat at that age and cutting off their own windpipe and this may just be what happened. "
CHRISTINE BIRDSALL wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:14 PM:
" After reading the negative things that some people have written on homebirth all I have to ask is, When did women loose the ability to give birth naturally??? i have had all of my 3 kids at home unassisted(by choice) and would never do it any other way!! Isn't America supposed to be the land of the free? The bottom line here is, giving birth at home doesn't make any money for the pharmacutical industry or the doctors or hospitals. Look at the big picture SHEEPLES!!!! Christine In South Dakota "
Kay wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:08 PM:
" It is the parents choice and responsiblity in pregnancy and delivery in whichever choice they make to have a midwife/home birth instead of a hospital birth they are the responsible party. Also look at the mortality of rate of babies in the hospital. Unfortunately these deaths happen very sad no matter what the circumstance. The midwife was not practicing medicine, unless someone can prove that that was the case, those charges should not stand and the parents must take responsiblity for the choices they made. The end result was an accidental death. "
Michelle Markham wrote on Jun 12, 2007 9:17 PM:
" Anyone interested in the truth about the safety of homebirth should look at the Citizens for Midwifery website and the CIMS (Coalition for Improving Maternity Services)website.We as a nation spend the most on maternity care and fall far below the international safety for women's and children's health. The counrties that use Midwive, who are experts in normal births, fair far better than the U.S. does. Doctors and hospitals have there place..... for complex, high risk birth. When we need a doctor and a hospital, we are grateful they exist for us. But, mostly, women and families, need natural and normal births. "
Michelle Eurgatis wrote on Jun 12, 2007 9:11 PM:
" I am a RN and work L&D, Mother Baby and Newborn Nursery. I have had my last 3 babies out of the hospital. One at a birthing center and the last two at home. THE HOSPITAL IS NOT THE SAFEST PLACE FOR NORMAL BIRTH!!! "
JanetD wrote on Jun 12, 2007 8:35 PM:
" In my area our county hospital has a 45% c-section rate! All the hospital have a policy that all breeches and twins are to be delivered by c-section and they have reverted to the "once a section, always a section" protocols. Many twins are delivered by c-section at 32 weeks!!!
Is that sage? C-sections are MAJOR abdominal surgury with all the risks of infection and injury. And speaking of infections, one of our local hospitals had 6 people die from Legionairres desease with they found originated in the water system of the LABOR & DELIVERY unit.
Hum! Now, which one did you say was safer?!? "
Mary in SD wrote on Jun 12, 2007 7:53 PM:
" Condolences to the family who lost their baby - how tragic to lose a loved one. However, I fully support midwives and homebirths. I have had three births, the first a naive hospital birth where I felt raped, betrayed, manipulated, and tortured, and myself and my baby suffered morbidity and trauma (oh, and a baby died at the hospital during birth that night). My subsequent two births were homebirths, gentle, peaceful, blissful, informed, educated, planned, and perfect! More POWER to you strong, intelligent women who OWN your birth and take responsibility for it. Natural birth is beautiful. Midwives are a gift, trained to help the mother birth with ease (not intervention), so let's stand together and demand our birth-rights. "
FreedomtoFasicm.com wrote on Jun 12, 2007 6:59 PM:
" Hmmm.... Interesting... So women have the right to "choose" to murder their baby but don't have the right to "choose" how they will deliver a living baby? Hello? Time to take down Wyoming government a few notches. Maybe a few post term abortions of some AMA / elected officials are in order. "
Randa wrote on Jun 12, 2007 6:01 PM:
" I feel the need to address the pp who suggested those who choose a homebirth over a hospital birth because of finances shouldn't have children because they couldn't afford them anyway. My husband and I have chosen a homebirth not to save money, but because it fits with our personal childbirth philosophy. However, we do not have insurance (as my husband is self-employed and the cost of health insurance is exorbant for a family our size), so homebirth in the end is actually less expensive. We, however, are more than capable of providing for our children. From my experience, those who choose homebirth make that choice with less thought about dollar signs and more about the way in which they want their child to come into this world. This is indeed a tragedy, and not having all the information, I can't truly say whether or not this midwife was negligent in this case. However, if the state would not fight homebirth, but instead set up reasonable regulations, I think that perhaps it would be easier to diagnose the difference between negligent care and a truly unavoidable tragedy. "
Heather wrote on Jun 12, 2007 5:18 PM:
" I am currently in training to be a CNM. Fortunately, where I live homebirth is legal. Both CNMs and CPMs are legally able to attend these births.
I think it is a disservice to women when midwifery is illegal, and a testament to the big money that is medical care in the US today.
I hope Wyoming is soon to be a woman-friendly (midwife-friendly) state again in the near future. "
Paloma from Texas wrote on Jun 12, 2007 2:19 PM:
" If WY and NE had Midwives Licensed, like in TX or so many other States, instead of illegal I think that a lot of pain on both sides could have been avoided. Yet nothing can bring a baby back to life. Unfortunately, death sometimes is part of birth and sometimes that is independent of the place of birth and the provider. Babies die of Group B Strep and other bacterial infections in the Hospital too. Actually there are increasing numbers of antibiotic resistant strains of Group B strep and some babies are getting infections even with the antibiotic treatment during labor as the CDC guidelines suggest. (see Patterns of Antibiotic Resistance Among Group B Streptococcus Isolates: 2001–2004 at http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1581469. Licensing Midwives provides Consumers with protection and effective tools for complaints because, Midwives are liable like any other health providers. Licensure also provides Midwives with legal ground, rules and regulations on practice thus protecting them as providers and the public by assuring that Direct-Entry Midwives completed a certain standard of training . Families have the right to Informed Choice about the place and care provider for their birth Direct-Entry Midwifery is a safe option. "
Mom&doula Carrie wrote on Jun 12, 2007 2:01 PM:
" Women have the right to choose where to have their babies and with whatever attendant they desire. Making an example of this tragedy to further deny this fundamental right to us is absurd and unconstitutional. Babies die in hospitals on a fairly regular basis in America, and OB/DR's who are involved continue to practice. 98% of our babies are born in hospitals yet, America ranks 27th in infant mortality... 27th!!! Why arent we talking about these babies and the caregivers invloved? This is a far bigger issue than one midwife in Wyoming.. this is about the safety of mothers and babies everywhere. The fact is, that if laws don't change and choice isn't returned to the hands of those HAVING the babies, it will only get worse. "
Rebecca Akens wrote on Jun 12, 2007 1:06 PM:
" I would like to respond to the statement that women use midwifery to save money. This is not at all the case. A hospital birth would have been nearly free for my family; we CHOSE to have a $1500 HOMEbirth because of the safety and cleanliness. "
Misty wrote on Jun 12, 2007 12:46 PM:
" To the CNM who posted yesterday. I gave birth to my daughter using a Lay Midwife. I initially went to a CNM not knowing the difference between a Lay Midwife and a CNM. When the CNM found out that I wanted to do a homebirth, she treated me like I was some kind of idiot and belittled me though our initial visit. I left that visit crying and sick at my stomach, because I happened to be in a state where Midwives weren't able to get licensed. No one wants to be made to feel stupid when they feel that they are doing what they feel is the best for themselves and their baby. I did find a midwife to deliver my little girl, she is now 1 1/2 and perfectly healthy. I feel that homebirthing is the best choice for any healthy pregnancy, but I also believe that it is all about choice. And that is what is being taken away from women in states where Midwifery is not legal. Homebirths were going on long before there were doctors. "
LB wrote on Jun 12, 2007 12:43 PM:
" I also live in a state where it is also illegal to have licensed medical personnel at your home for the birth of a child. I wonder which is safer: having a woman choose to have a birth at home and then have to have an untrained person help with the delivery, or to have a knowledgable CNM there to assist? My husband delivered my child at home because there wasn't another available option. We would have been lucky to have someone like Susan at our home for the birth of our son! "
Heather wrote on Jun 12, 2007 11:32 AM:
" Sue delivered my last two babies. I'd do it all over again today, and I'll STILL have her as my midwife if we're ever blessed again. The removal of our choices for OUR lives is ridiculous. i am tired of the federal goverenment thinking that they know better than we do.
Babies die in hospitals routinely. And the doctors seem to always wiggle out of it by blaming OUR non-compliance, or pointing to some defect in the baby, the pregnancy, the delivery, etc. Sue has delivered hunderds of babies and no one complained-she took us ot the COUNTY to obtain a birth certificate. No one has stopped her at teh conty building. Why?
This must be stopped. We deserve the right to choose and no one has the right to tell us that our choices are wrong. Sue is a marvelous woman with a heart as big as the universe for the babies and the mommas who choose to birth at home. "
Christina wrote on Jun 12, 2007 11:10 AM:
" So if abortion is a woman's right, why shouldn't home birth be a woman's right?
You know the risks going in and you accept that when making your decision. I have had both my children at home and will continue to support the midwives and the mothers who choose home birth. "
DAW wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:59 AM:
" This lady may have several home births done successfully and luckily with no problems. But it only takes one mistake and that mistake lead to the death of a infant girl named Maggie yes she had a name not just the baby that died. From what I read it sounds like Ms. Merrill was very skilled at what she did. The parents made no mistake in judgement to let her deliver their child. Were they may have made the mistake is by doing it a hotel. Ms. Merrill also let this happen so dont make this an issue of safety from germs to have a home delivery. What kind of germs are in a hotel room? Ms. Merrill made a mistake and she needs to make mends with that mistake she knew is was illegal in wyoming she knew there maybe a problem those are responsibilites she took on when she became a midwife. Just as a Doctor takes responsibilites and has to answer for them when he makes mistakes. Ms. Merrill should be charged with the preventable death of baby Maggie. "
saddened by this wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:42 AM:
" Please what options do we have? Home birth is illegal so we have to put up with a labor and delivery department that just sees us as a one more task before they go home... Maybe if the hospitals were to put more care into their patients, we wouldn't want a home birth so much? "
always wanted a homebirth wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:38 AM:
" I have 4 children and just found out that I am expecting another blessing. We've talked about having a home birth as there is no one in the area to watch my other 4 children. I have also always prepared a birth plan and with my 3 babies that were born in Wyoming, the nurses could have cared less. I did not know that this was illegal until reading the paper. I was planning on a home birth with my next child as a friend of mine had one about 2 months ago, here in Cheyenne. She delivered a 10.5 lb baby healthy and happy. It saddens me not to have the option of a home birth. I do not enjoy being treated like just another job as I was at the hospital here. I guess Wyoming really is 10 years behind the rest of the country. "
A wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:27 AM:
" I feel very deeply sorry for the family. While I cannot assume why they chose a hotel, I can say that I know others choose hotels because they are closer to the hospital than their home, should a transfer to the hospital be necessary. If free standing birth centers at hospitals were available, that might have given this mother a few more real options, but so long as everybody seems to be ok with obstetric care the way it is now it is hard to foresee real positive changes for the future. The thing with allowing free standing birth centers is that you have to accept midwifery as whole, and natural labor as well, which is not what obstetric management is all about. While hospitals and specialist and machines can be a Godsend, they are not necessary for a majority of healthy women with healthy pregnancies. In this incident it seems the mother was trying to give herself a fighting chance of avoiding hospital protocol that on several occasions has been proven to be more risky than beneficial. "
Ricketa wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:19 AM:
" Wyoming is known as the equality state. Women first earned the right to vote here. Why are we not allowed to choose our birth options? Womenwill continue to birth at home because the doctor and hospital options are not acceptable for our families.I have 6 children born at home. All are happy healthy children. Why aren't the women of Wyoming or any other state standing up and telling the legislature what We the women want? It is because we are afraid for our families. It is time for us to stand up and be counted again! The USA ranks 41 in the WHO infant mortality rates. That means that there are 40 countries who have better rates. That is a tragedy. Those countries all approve midwifery. We also rank 180 out of 221 countries. Is this acceptable to any of you? Most births happen in the hospital. These rankings come from those statistics not from home birth or midwife statistics. It is time to move on. BIRTH TRUTH = BIRTH TRUST. I encourage all women to educate themselves on birth truth. Birth is normal not a disease. "
Alice wrote on Jun 12, 2007 10:05 AM:
" I've had two children with midwives and would never willingly work with anyone else.
Why not a hospital "just in case"? Because it's been documented again and again that hospitals intervene inappropriately, and cause a great many more injuries and complications than they prevent.
I was over 35 with both my pregnancies, and would've been considered high risk in the typical OB-GYN practice. Instead, I was carefully guided and examined at every step of my pregnancies, and delivered two perfectly healthy babies with short, unmedicated labors and no complications OR stitches.
It's time our country stopped treating pregnancylike some sort of disease. "
LP wrote on Jun 12, 2007 9:48 AM:
" Outlawing midwifery does not prevent women from having homebirths, it only makes it more dangerous. The legalities (and/or hostilities) present around homebirth midwifery in local medical communities make it impossible for the midwife to consult with, transfer care to or work collaboratively with any doctors. Acceptance and collaboration is homebirth is key to safety and preventing unattended births. "
Ariella wrote on Jun 12, 2007 8:08 AM:
" homebirthing is not for women who want to "save some money" as someone stated. it IS for women who CHOOSE to have thier babies at home in their natural environment where they will be more relaxed and comfortable. it is not a choice for everybody, there should be both choice of birthing at home or in the hospital. women should NOT be forced to birth in hospitals. several babies die and get sick there each year and we dont hear about all of them. states should not be able to take away womens right of choosing how to birth their children.
my prayers go the family who lost their baby and also the midwife. "
Susan wrote on Jun 12, 2007 5:48 AM:
" Please legalize lay midwives. Help protect my babies from the hospital. My 9.5 puond baby was born out of the hospital, underwater attened by a lay midwife. He would have be in more danger at a hosptial, not less. I chose homebirth for safety, and paid for it myself. "
Yvonne wrote on Jun 12, 2007 5:26 AM:
" Why are home-born babies more precious to the State than those born in a hospital? Does this prosecutor provide the same scrutiny for each baby that dies in a hospital? Why not? What special training do the police have that enables them to neutrally assess the circumstances of childbirth and the Constitutional rights of a woman to make medical and health care choices? Doesn't every baby and family deserve the same State interest into the circumstances of their newborn's death? "
dtjb wrote on Jun 12, 2007 12:14 AM:
" I am the youngest of 13, all of whom were delivered at home. If my mother had had her first delivery in a hospital, I doubt she would have reupped 12 more times. I had my 3 children in the hospital with 2 bad experiences but hospital births was the going thing then. Two of my daughters have had home births and I was fortunate to attend one of them and it was a beautiful, natural experience. Susan Merrill must have had a good reputation or she would not have been asked to deliver 400 babies. It should be the woman's choice to have a home or hospital birth. Expectant mothers have the right to abort their fetuses if they don't desire to have them so expectant women should also have the right to decide how they want their desired babies to come into this world. A homebirth is the most natural way. "
Give them the best chance! wrote on Jun 11, 2007 11:53 PM:
" Yes, women should be able to birth their children wherever they want. Those women who choose to birth at home should be well informed and lead their own birthing plan. Shouldn't the parents be just as much to blame as the midwife? After all, they could have called an ambulance at any point. I have had three children, one of which needed immediate intervention from NICU staff. I am so happy I wasn't in a hotel room in Cheyenne. BTW, I demanded a pulse oxygen measurement after a nurse insisted he had facial bruising. Having this near-death experience with one of my own children has convinced me. I would personally NEVER recommend the home birth to anyone. God bless the wonderful women who take care of other women. I just hope they are available in a medical setting. I find it selfish for a mother to demand a certain setting for the birth of their child. It's not just about the mother. Ultimately it's about the precious baby who can't make any choices on their own. Babies deserve the absolute best chance and that's a parent's job. "
Tammy Hill wrote on Jun 11, 2007 10:33 PM:
" The issue here is should we be given a choice? After having my first 4 babies at the hospital, and the next 4 at home, I would emphatically say YES!!!!!!!!! These midwives are well trained loving and caring individuals, who, quite frankly seem to give more care to a women in labor than many doctors do!
My next question would be, who brought the charges against this midwife? Was it the parents who had every right to make an intelligent choice, or was it someone outside the immediate family who does not know what is really true, nor have the right to make choices for this family? Last but not least, Sue delivered my 7 yr. old daughter, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome. She handled the situation with the most sensitive yet knowledgable touch, I have absolutely nothing but good to say about this birth, and am appalled at the stories I hear of hospital births of some of these precious special needs babies. What would you do as a wise consumer? FIND AN ALTERNATIVE!!! "
Sharee wrote on Jun 11, 2007 10:31 PM:
" I had my first baby in the hospital in MT with a midwife, I liked the midwife but didn't like the nurses that tried to force me to give my baby sugar water and vaccines or trying to take my baby out of the room in the middle of the night. When I had my last two babies we lived in WY and there was no way that I would have them in the hospital. Thank God that Sue was there because our third babys' heart rate was low and Sue knew that massaging the bottom of her feet would bring her heart rate up where it should be. Parents should have the right to have their children at home if they choose, With a midwife. "
Can Dance wrote on Jun 11, 2007 9:21 PM:
" To Ronnie: actually the facts back that homebirth is just as safe if not safer than having a hospital birth. Secondly your child may have "almost died" because you were in the hospital in the first place. That is what happens when you walk in the door and the doctor has no expertise except cutting you open when something goes "wrong" in their minds. I use "wrong" loosely because docs see a lot of wrong when there just isn't wrong to be seen. "
Kelley wrote on Jun 11, 2007 8:49 PM:
" I live in WY & plan on becoming a lay midwife here. A birth is as personal & natural as the making love it took to get there. This is not a medical event. How can the government decide for us where such an event should take place, which is what they are doing by making midwife attended births illegal. Traditionally, women grew up around birth and witnessed it many times before having a baby of their own, so when it was time to give birth she knew what to do and would maybe have the presence of others for comfort, who had already had their own babies. This is all a midwife is. Not a doctor and not acting as one. By discouraging a woman to invite a person familiar with birth, isn't that just causing some women to have an unassisted birth, which is perfectly safe when it's choice & not when they don't want to be alone but feel as though there is no other option. Women deserve the right to choose where & who they would like to attend. "
toby taylor wrote on Jun 11, 2007 8:35 PM:
" Sue delievered my last two a boy now 25 and a girl 24 at home both healthy i had confidence in her abilities she helped deliver alot of friends babies. "
jenn wrote on Jun 11, 2007 7:51 PM:
" I had both of my children at home and had cpmplications with the second the midwife was awesome at saving my childslife and respecting my wishes to not transfer to the hospital. It really is up to the parents what trement they want to have. "
PLS wrote on Jun 11, 2007 7:32 PM:
" Home birth can be the right choice and a safe choice but only with the right practitioner. Sue Merill knew this woman's membranes were ruptured for 33 hours and told her that she didn't need to be concerned. Regardless of what happened in Cheyenne at the hospital to someone posting here or anywhere else, one person's wrong actions don't make it ok for everyone else. The definition of negligence is failure to use reasonable care. Any responsible midwife would have taken this woman to the hospital or at least made sure that her baby was evaluated at the hospital before sending them down the road in their car but she didn't and now a baby's dead. Yes, death happens but this death didn't just happen. Sue Merrills actions resulted in the death of this baby. This isn't the first death of a baby that Sue Merrill has had in the past few years in Laramie and Albany counties due to her negligence though so she had to know her failure to act would catch up to her sooner or later. "
Jeanne, CNM wrote on Jun 11, 2007 7:24 PM:
" As a licensed Wyoming Nurse Midwife I would like to provide a correction regarding the legality of practice by Certified Nurse Midwifes. CNM practice in Wyoming IS legal. It is NOT restricted exclusively to hospital care. "
kelly wrote on Jun 11, 2007 7:09 PM:
" I've had my first child in a hospital the next in a freestanding birthing center staffed with liscensed midwives (florida) and the next 4 at home. My first babys birth was wrought with complications CAUSED FROM having a very invasive drug filled birth (epidural). My body just didnt work well all drugged up and my poor baby suffered from my ignorance. To the hospital and staff it was just a "routine" birth- it's all they see so they never really know what normal childbirth CAN BE! My next five children were all born under the care of 3 different midwives in Florida and Wisconsin and each time we received EXPERT care and a gentle birth experience. Those births showed my body worked well if just left alone to labor and birth rather than all drugged , tied to machines and half )starved. Currently pregnant with number 7 in Illinois and a midwife at home is the only SAFE option for me (even though it's not "legal" here)! Hospitals are for SICK and unhealthy high risk pregnant women. This is where ob's are really needed. Give normal birth back to midwives and mothers. "
Jeanne, CNM wrote on Jun 11, 2007 7:07 PM:
" Certified Nurse Midwifery (CNM) practice in Wyoming IS legal for CNMs and is NOT restricted to hospital care. "
Krista wrote on Jun 11, 2007 6:56 PM:
" When will WY join the 21st century and recognize the rights of birthing women and the fallacy that hospital care is vastly superior to competent midwifery care at home. Babies are dying in hospitals right now and we don't see hospital birth being made illegal. This family has suffered a terrible loss, but WY women are suffering from lack of safe birthing options in this witch-hunt mentality. "
TH wrote on Jun 11, 2007 6:25 PM:
" In response to CNM-My sister gave birth to her son at the hospital in Cheyenne after her membrane had been ruptured for 28 hours. No special testing or treatment was given to her or the baby. Both were released the next day, less than 24 hours later. The only reassurance we got during the labor was a nurse coming in every hour or so to look at the monitor, smile, ask how are you doing and then leave the room. My sister was treated 5 days later for a severe infection, leaving her unable to nurse. But thanks for reminding us of the neglectful treatment so many women receive in the L&D department. Maybe my sister would not have gotten sick if these tests you mentioned had been done in the hospital. I believe she would have been better off at home, which is where I cont. to deliver with a Lay midwife. "
tk wrote on Jun 11, 2007 5:40 PM:
" First, birth in a motel room is not a "home birth", it's clandestine. The poor motel owner. Second, yes babies die in the hospital as well as the home, but was this mother and daughter cared for appropriately. You can still act professionally and not provide the appropriate level of care. Home birth in many countries, such as the Netherlands, has been a safe and effective process, but it is well regulated, with strict standards for transport, consultation and risk assessment. Generalizing that home birth is safe therefore what Sue is doing is safe is making a giant leap that to me does not seem appropriate. How sad that this baby died. How sad that the medical community is being vilified as evil. Malpractice is a fact of life in medicine and in midwifery. Malpractice is defined as causing harm via negligence. In the end, I think it will be found what this homebirth midwife did was negligent. "
California midwife and woman wrote on Jun 11, 2007 5:06 PM:
" Why don't those thristy for "upholding justice" focus their energy on the fact that pitocin, used in over 50% of hospital births these days, as well as Cytotec, have never been authorized by the FDA for use in laboring women---and yet are used rampantly and are responsible for numerous cases of maternal death and morbidity as well as fetal distress, morbidity and mortality. It would be wise for the health of humankind if those "professionals" who assist births would learn once and for all the physiology of childbirth and stop casting a doubting and condemning eye on those who understand it best: midwives. Condolensces to the family who has lost their baby - that must be one of the hardest things for anyone to ever go through. "
North Colorado Midwifery wrote on Jun 11, 2007 4:58 PM:
" It is the state's obligation to provide a safe procedure for what the people want. Some women want home birth. There is a way to provide that through legal means. If a midwife can do her work and consult with the health care system when indicated, then safe home birth can happen. It is too bad that Wyoming didn't have the foresight to improve its citizens safety in 2005. Let's hope that they step up to the plate in the future. "
Ashley wrote on Jun 11, 2007 4:51 PM:
" Illinois is experiencing the same problems now. Despite our liberal reputation we have some of the worst laws against midwifery in the country. Our bill, which passed the Senate with flying colors, was defeated in committee in the state House. I feel sorry for the mother and the midwife, and have to wonder why they don't charge doctors when a baby dies in the hospital, but will charge the midwife if the baby dies at home. Considering research shows that homebirth is safer than hospital birth, this is clearly just discrimination in favor of the medical establishment. "
Ronnie wrote on Jun 11, 2007 4:01 PM:
" I don't think Sue should be charged. However, I do have a concern about home births. Both of my children would have died during or after delivery had I not been in a hospital setting. I know that some use midwives to save money, but if you can't afford to have your baby how are you going to take care of it after it is born? As a matter of choice...what choice does the baby have that dies not being in a hospital. We protect babies from parents that do drugs, is this any different? This is a complicated issue. "
amy wrote on Jun 11, 2007 3:51 PM:
" I am very glad that I live in Washington state and was able to deliver my last child at home, without the threat of legal action.I believe in options and hope that Wyoming works to protects birthing women's options for choosing their own care. "
DEM wrote on Jun 11, 2007 3:12 PM:
" There is not much more to add to the eloquent outpourings here. My sympathies and prayers both to the family and to Sue. Nothing but outrage to the "authorities". How often do you hear of physician arrests for the death of a baby? Their rates are just the same or higher in some cases. "
Jill Kuhn, Ph.D., Northern Colorado wrote on Jun 11, 2007 2:36 PM:
" Midwifery IS the safest option. The research backs up the midwifery model of care. Families in countries that have lower maternal and infant deaths are almost exclusively midwife assisted, give birth at home or in a birthing center and they breastfeed their babies. Contrary to “mainstream” misinformation, midwifery practices and other similar centers have a better health outcomes than obstetrical practices. Detractors argue that midwives have better outcomes than OB only because they assist in “low risk births.“ However, the extent of positive outcomes with midwife assisted births is not explained by the “low risk” argument. For example, the risk of infant death was 19% lower, neonatal mortality was 33% lower, low birthweight infants was 31% lower and mean birthweight was 37 grams heavier for CNM’s than for physician attended births (MacDorman and Singh, 1998). In fact, the United States ranks 27th in the world for maternal and infant mortality (CDC, 2004). That means 26 other industrialized countries are doing better than us in keeping mothers and infants alive and thus mothers and infants are safer almost anywhere else in the industrialized world than the U.S..
"
CPM in Montana wrote on Jun 11, 2007 2:33 PM:
" Wyoming is continuing to be backward, they had a law and a committee tossed it out with a debate or warnings to the midwives, shame on them.
She has a wonderful record and you should ask the hospital on their death rate for infection-it happens everywhere. "
kristi Y wrote on Jun 11, 2007 2:28 PM:
" In reply to CNM who posted to clarify the difference between midwives who are legal in WY, but only deliver in hospitals, I looked at this option in Cheyenne, 2 years ago with my twins, and found that the "midwife" who works in the OBGYN office, would only deliver in the hospital, and only if she was "available" --or a DR might end up delivering me. And that with twins I would most likely be taken c-section without question anyway. When I came for prenatal appts, I would have to see all the doctors and not just her... what would have been the difference?
Also, from what I have "heard" from WY midwives, if a mother is transported to the hospital during labor, they are treated (and the mw) very poorly in the way of "attitudes". This doesn't encourage anyone to want to be transported when needed. It is viewed as a last resort. I rec'd a letter from my OBGYN office when they found I planned on a home birth and basically told me "don't call us" in a transport-to-hospital situation.
"
One of Sue's Patients wrote on Jun 11, 2007 2:21 PM:
" I had Sue deliver my last child in my home. I was very pleased with all of her knowledge and if I were having anymore children, I would love for her to be the one to deliver for me again.
On the other hand, I'm sad to see ANY baby die! When my child was born (at home with Sue as my midwife) it was legal. I don't think that the law should have changed.
Home birth is a very natural process. You are in your own house with your own germs. You can walk around at your own pace and YES Sue did monitor my child with a doppler while I labored. She was very professional about my whole pregnancy and delivery. She was prepared for any situation that could have arrised. We even planned a route to the hospital as a JUST IN CASE.
I hate to see Wyoming lose one of the best home birth midwife's in the world. Sue was a great midwife for me and I stand by her and hope she can deliver more babies at home as the Mother's wish. "
vivrh1@gmail wrote on Jun 11, 2007 1:39 PM:
" It is so sad that WY is on a witch hunt. I dont know what happened in this particular case but homebirth IS a healthy and safe option. I have birthed at home three times. I transported the last time and would still birth at home for any furture babies. "
Homebirther wrote on Jun 11, 2007 1:27 PM:
" I have birthed once in a hospital and twice at home. I live in a state where midwifery legislation keeps getting shot down by the medical professionals and it is ridiculous.
IMO, legalizing the practice of midwives will increase the safety of homebirth (it's already been proven safe) and provide the concurrent care that is sometimes necessary. "
Heather in Canada wrote on Jun 11, 2007 1:25 PM:
" As devastating as it is when a baby dies, life has risks. As we have learned in Canada, where home birth has been proven as safe as hospital birth, public outcry seems to be reserved for deaths outside hospital births. Morbidity and mortality rates in hospitals are not good. They just don't get aired in public like this one. Who is putting forward this complaint? Are the parents? Or is this the “long arm of the law”? Women are evidently asking for something that hospitals do not provide--or avoiding what they do provide. "
CNM wrote on Jun 11, 2007 1:20 PM:
" I feel a need to clarify lay midwifery vs. certified nurse midwifery. Yes, lay midwifery is illegal in Wyoming, certified nurse midwifery (CNM)is not. CNM's that practice in Wyoming, are licensed Advanced Practice Nurses that deliver in hospitals. Lay midwives are held to the same standards of care as certified nurse midwives. Was this mother tested for Group B strep, was she monitored for elevated temperature, was this baby monitored at an appropriate frequency by doppler? If a baby had delivered in the hospital after 33 hours of ruptured membranes it would have been monitored by nursery personnel for > 24 hours before going home amd the mother would likely have received prophylactic antibiotics after about 18 hours of rupture. This midwife should have at the very least had this baby evaluated by a pediatrician before allowing it to go back home to NE. "
Tracey wrote on Jun 11, 2007 1:13 PM:
" Sometimes babies die. That is a very hard fact of life. Babies die in hospitals too - sometimes of hospital aquired infections. We do not outlaw hospitals because people sometimes die there (caused by being in the hospital) It is foolish to outlaw birth at home when it is proven as safe as a hospital for healthy moms and babies (see the BMJ homebirth study for more infohttp://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/330/7505/1416) A competent midwife is a blessing to families, and should be encouraged, not persecuted. "
Misty wrote on Jun 11, 2007 1:10 PM:
" I think it is really sad that Midwifery is not legal across the United States. My first child was born at home, in a state that wasn't legalized, and I hated the secrecy. I was proud to be giving birth at home and wasn't able to tell anyone but family who my midwife was. Plus the fear that you may let it slip to the wrong person and your midwife gets investigated or brought up on criminal charges. My daughter is not 1 1/2 perfectly healthy. Homebirth isn't going anywhere anytime soon. I am due any day now and will be doing a homebirth again, in a LEGAL state!!! "
BSN wrote on Jun 11, 2007 12:53 PM:
" I mistakenly birthed my first in the hospital and the baby suffered lung damage at the hand of an "aggressive" nurse. We opted NEVER to make that mistake again and have birthed all our other children at home.
Educated, well-informed parents know thorough studies show home birthing as safe or SAFER than hospital births. Any state who can't understand that is doing their citizens a disservice. I have know couples to choose to leave states where hom birthing is "illegal" b/c they felt it also immoral to go against the law.... sad thing is there is one huge "CHOICE" women have that government has made legal which is always MURDER. Give me a break! Abortion is legal but birthing where a woman chooses isn't???? "
Michelle wrote on Jun 11, 2007 12:32 PM:
" I feel so sorry for the family that lost their infant, but I also believe that here in the US we should have a choice as to where we give birth and with whom. The US has an infant mortality rate that is much higher than many other countries, so the fact that most of our births happen in hospital doesn't seem to improve the outcome. I believe that midwives should be legal and supported everywhere, because birth is a normal process for most women, and midwives are specialists is normal birth! "
Becky McInnis, CNM wrote on Jun 11, 2007 12:30 PM:
" I am sad to hear about this case. We would like to believe that if we make the right choices that babies will always be healthy - this is just not so! Some Wyoming mothers have been coming to Utah to birth here at our freestanding birthing center (not associated with a hospital) because of the lack of choices in Wyoming. I hope that this case spurs a change in Wyoming law in favor of choices. Becky McInnis, CNM, Clinical Director, Birth and Family Place, Holladay, Utah "
Christy wrote on Jun 11, 2007 11:53 AM:
" I would encourage the state of Wyoming to review the statistics of midwives delivering babies as presented in "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth." Intervention and infection rates were so low for the more than 2000 babies delivered by midwives that medical professionals began coming to the midwive's farm to learn how to properly deliver babies. Having recently given birth at a midwife's home in Montana, I can attest to the environment being very conducive to a safe, healthy, loving future for babies and families. The difference between midwifery and the medical profession is that midwives accept full responsibility for their actions, something which traditional obstetricians avoid through expensive malpractice insurance and joining large groups. "
jan wrote on Jun 11, 2007 9:42 AM:
" Home birth should be an option available to all healthy moms. The tragic reality about this case is that people will go to all lengths to have the birth they want. Why not legalize the midwives in both states and allow then to work in coordination with other health care givers? Home birth will not stop or go away, but it could be even better if health professionals can be on the same team to give good care and not adversaries. Quite often, home birth is portrayed as risky, but there are risks in the hospital as well. Home birth is a safe option!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family in their loss, but also to Sue for doing the best she could and being doubly punished for it. "
Jackie wrote on Jun 11, 2007 9:41 AM:
" There is nothing wrong with choosing to have your child in a hospital. And there is nothing wrong with choosing to have your child(ren) in your own home. The whole point here is the *choice*. I could not agree more with the previous comment about women's rights taking a major loss because of midwifery being illegal in some states. Prayers and best wishes to Sue and her family. "
Betty Lewis wrote on Jun 11, 2007 9:34 AM:
" If they are licensed by the state medical board then great otherwise why risk life? "
LY wrote on Jun 11, 2007 5:10 AM:
" Such a tragic case. No one expects to lose the child they've carried for 9 months to an infection. I think the guilty party (if there is a guilty party) is the illinformed NE legislature and the medical lobbyists in that state. Why did the mother have to come to Cheyenne to have her child in a hotel room? I don't know but can make an educated guess that she was not "allowed" to choose home birth as an option where she lived and had probably heard of Sue Merrill and her professionalism and competency from friends and/or family. The infant died on the way back home. If medical care had been suggested after the birth, isn't it reasonable that they would have wanted to get that care at home with a medical doctor they knew instead of here in Cheyenne. I'm having my third child in August and Sue was to be the midwife for us. Now we have to leave wyoming and travel to CO for the birth. A friend has offered her house so we don't have to deliver in a hotel room. (Thank God!) Is this the way to treat WY citizens? "
Diane wrote on Jun 10, 2007 8:45 PM:
" Homebirth is a peaceful and safe option and every woman should be allowed to make the educated choice to deliver where she believes is best for her and her baby. The states would be wise to license these midwives and make sure they are certified and safe and that women are not driving across state lines for the birth they desire. I've had three babies in hospitals and one at home. My prayers are with Sue and also with the parents over their loss. "
Ruth Shockley wrote on Jun 10, 2007 4:08 PM:
" I was present in 2005 when Sue Merrill delivered my twin grandbabies - both large babies - and I was very impressed. One of them was breech, and not breathing, and she handled that situation with complete control. I have had 5 children myself, and I feel that Sue was much more relaxed and "professional" than the doctors who delivered mine in the hospital. "Sue" wrote in yesterday and asked "why not use the hospital?". Well, Sue, I can think of many reasons, not the least of which is a lack of insurance and money, and the most important of which is the decision of the parents to have their child where they choose and without being given drugs and intrusive tests that they don't want, as well as being told that C-section is the only alternative. As for risks, check any obstetrician and/or hospital OB unit, and see how many deaths and infections have occured after deliveries there.(I have some experience there myself!) I think you will find that Ms Merrill has an impressive record compared to them. "
chanin wrote on Jun 10, 2007 3:33 PM:
" as a consumer who would have also have chosen to birth at home, i am appalled. if states such as WY and NE would take an objective look at the studies, they would see that out-of-hospital birth can be a safe option when care providers are licensed by the state. we home-birthing families are NOT going away. it is sad that this is what it comes to. i support sue and other families that decide to birth in places besides the hospital. "
dan wrote on Jun 10, 2007 3:52 AM:
" Why was the 2005 bill in the legislature defeated? Maybe someone should try to introduce a new bill, if you can get past the lobbyists working for the doctors. "
Laura wrote on Jun 9, 2007 11:57 PM:
" If this case is lost it will be a major loss of women's rights in Wyoming. This couple educated themselves on the risks and benefits of home birth and made an educated decision. I don't think Sue should be punished for serving them in their decision. People can choose to have their babies in the hospital too and accept a whole different set of risks such as: skull fractures, facial nerve palsy (from forceps), brachial nerve injury, and cephalohematoma. All of these injuries were documented in hospital births in a study by Dr. Lewis Mehl (from Childbirth and Family Research of Berkley) comparing home birth verses hospital birth. There were no injuries in the home birth group of the study. "
LM wrote on Jun 9, 2007 8:40 PM:
" I thinks it's silly to charge her with anything. Women have the right to give birth wherever they choose. If her husband had delivered the baby would you be charging him? "
Dave wrote on Jun 9, 2007 4:26 PM:
" I resided in Cheyenne for many years before moving to Texas. I have always been proud to say that Wyoming is one of the greatest states to live in and was always bragging about it. Now with Wyoming rejecting Midwives is a step backwards in the Equality State. Women should have the choice to have their baby born in a hospital or at home. I know that some doctors and hospitals are against the idea of midwives because they lose money for each birth at home, but it is time for the legisture to step up an say enough is enough and allow the practice of midwifery to continue. "
Heather wrote on Jun 9, 2007 10:17 AM:
" This is an unfortunate case, which probably could've been avoided had this midwife or a midwife in Nebraska been able to provide the full-scope of care they are trained to provide. Home birth is going to continue regardless of efforts to stop it and families need a safe option! States that license and regulate home birth midwives have better birth outcomes and homebirth is safe option (there's ample research to back this up). All the more reason for WY and NE to allow a midwife to attend home births....the evidence is there to support it, even the PEW Health Commission thinks so http://www.futurehealth.ucsf.edu/pdf_files/midwifry.pdf
Best wishes and prayers to Sue and to all of those families who will not be left without a midwife.
"
Katie wrote on Jun 9, 2007 8:44 AM:
" Wyoming is going in the opposite direction of the rest of the country when it comes to midwifery licensure. Just in the last few years alone, five states have passed laws to license certified professional midwives to attend home deliveries, while ten additional states have pending legislation. Midwives are legal in 25 states.
Policy makers and legislators in these states have rightfully recognized that regulating healthcare providers via the criminal court system is inefficent, expensive and a gross misuse of taxpayer dollars.
It makes much more sense for Wyoming to join the 21st century and pass legislation to license midwives and provide for administrative regulation, instead of mounting an expensive criminal trial every time someone has a question about a midwife's care. "
Kristi Yarbrough wrote on Jun 9, 2007 8:32 AM:
" Sue delivered my twins in 2005 and they were large size, healthy babies!
I delievered at home when only a c-section birth was available for a twin birth in a hospital setting, and even though the 2nd twin was breech, she handled in very professionally.
I am now 30 weeks along and due in August, and must find another caregiver at the last moment, probably in another state.
Our prayers are with Sue and I support her to the fullest extent!
"
sue wrote on Jun 9, 2007 8:21 AM:
" Death is death... especially in a baby's case! Had the parents been informed then maybe the baby would be alive. My preayers go to the parents. BUT why not use the hopsital? I have 4 and without the hospital 2 wouldn't be here. Still prayers to the parents :) "
Heather wrote on Jun 9, 2007 8:15 AM:
" This is an unfortunate case, which probably could've been avoided had this midwife or a midwife in Nebraska been able to provide the full-scope of care they are trained to provide. Home birth is going to continue regardless of efforts to stop it and families need a safe option! States that license and regulate home birth midwives have better birth outcomes and homebirth is safe option (there's ample research to back this up). All the more reason for WY and NE to allow a midwife to attend home births....the evidence is there to support it, even the PEW Health Commission thinks so http://www.futurehealth.ucsf.edu/pdf_files/midwifry.pdf
Best wishes and prayers to Sue and to all of those families who will not be left without a midwife.
"
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Mom in WY wrote on Oct 30, 2007 1:33 PM: