History of the Bangalore Birth Network

The Bangalore Birth Network (BBN) was established in October 2007 by a group of women, some healthcare professionals and other concerned citizens, as part of a search for supportive, humane, natural birth experiences.

As the BBN met and grew, the group realized it was a part of a larger movement in India. While cities, such as Delhi and Chennai, began establishing their own childbirth advocacy groups, a national group, Birth India based in Mumbai was also formed in 2007.

Birth India mentors regional networks and organises an annual national conference where BBN members meet with other childbirth advocacy groups in India to share ideas and work together on national issues. Locally, the BBN agenda continues to be set by immediate needs and trends in Bangalore.

Currently in Bangalore, most births take place in hospitals attended by doctors and managed as medical conditions. Choices are limited, and there is a need for more resources, patience and support for women seeking natural childbirth. The BBN spontaneously grew out of this need.

 

Did you know?
  • The induction rate in most private, urban hospitals in India is much higher than the recommended rate of one in every ten women or less (10% or less).
  • Starting labor artificially with the use of drugs without a medical reason (elective induction) is associated with an increase in the incidence of abnormal fetal heart rate patterns, shoulder dystocia (stuck shoulders at birth), vaginal delivery with forceps or vacuum, and cesarean surgery.