Birth is a miracle, a rite of passage, a natural part of life. But birth is also big business. Compelled to explore the subject after the delivery of her first child, actress Ricki Lake recruits filmmaker Abby Epstein to question the way American women have babies. The film interlaces intimate birth stories with surprising historical, political and scientific insights and shocking statistics about the current maternity care system. Should most births be viewed as a natural life process, or should every delivery be treated as a potentially catastrophic medical emergency?
Summary info for schedule – will be hidden on film page
The Business of Being Born
87-minutes
This documentary, directed by Abby Epstein, examines the ways that the American health care system approaches childbirth. The traditional form of U.S. birth involves hospitals, drugs and obstetricians, while births in many other countries utilize midwives. Interviews with parents and medical experts explain the realities of maternity care. When Epstein discovers that she is pregnant herself, the discussion becomes less theoretical, as she must decide which form of birthing she will employ.
Screening day / time
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The Business of Being Born
Filmmakers
Filmmaker info pending
Running Time
87 minutes
The Business of Being Born
Film details
Year(s) screened
- 2008
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