A thorn bush in the northern
areas of South Africa seems to be a significant symbol for the problem of
disrespect in Obstetrics, which is not straight forward, rather complex with
multiple prongs. There is a need to draw on the different perspectives, from
different angles in terms of the behavior and attitudes of the many actors, as
well as engaging with emotions.
Stepping into one of these
thorn bushes is extremely painful, initiating a sharp reaction. A prick, a jab
or a deep gash may result in lasting pain and discomfort. Similarly negative
experiences of birthing can have detrimental consequences for mums, students,
midwives and others involved.
The silencing of these
practices seems to demonstrate an unwillingness to engage in difficult issues,
perhaps the emotional labour is too unsettling. It feels like we are
conditioned to keep our distance from the thorns, to stay away, which appears
to exacerbate the “othering” of relationships.
Is the medical curriculum providing
the space and opportunity for students to develop the muscle to recognize the
thorns and bounce off them, or teaching and building resilience to insulate
future doctors from harm, or shifting away from discomfort to accomplish the requisite
knowledge and skills at the expense of other competencies?
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