BirthNet of the Finger Lakes

Birthing Services, Education, Health Services

Ithaca, NY 14850
Visit Their Website
Find on Facebook
Follow on Twitter

Maintained By: Hillary Boucher
Last Updated: December 31, 2009

Average Rating: 5

Reviews: 6
Views: 239

BirthNet of the Finger Lakes promotes awareness and availability of healthy, normal, mother-friendly childbirth through education, outreach and advocacy. A consumer-based and volunteer-run working group, BirthNet of the Finger Lakes was created to protect, improve and expand birthing options in our local communities. Through lectures, presentations, discussions, community events and resource lists, BirthNet of the Finger Lakes provides information about all aspects of prenatal, birth and postpartum health.

We respond to local, regional and national media coverage of birth issues, and we join regional and national initiatives to assert and preserve womens rights to comprehensive and appropriate maternity care. We believe in the power of families working together to educate about and maintain access to birth options in our region. We encourage women and families of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, races, religions, sexual orientations, abilities, and socio-economic circumstances to learn about their rights and about choices available during the childbearing year.

Write a Review...

Member Reviews

Urgently Needed Organization!

Reviewed By E Mary / January 1, 2010

Just before my son was born, 3.6 years ago, Ithaca had:
A freestanding birth center, 4 homebith midwives, one accepting Medicaid, two family practice doctors, and two natural OBs. In just over three years, all of these options have been or will shortly be eliminated! The birth situation in NYS is dire! We need an organization in every county in the state. Such important work for the freedom of mamas, babies, and care providers!

Whatever you want to know...BirthNet knows...

Reviewed By Erin Kerr / December 31, 2009

...even if the answer is "I don't know!" Birthnet grew out of a need to support women and their families having choices in childbirth and to reach out to the community with that information. Their activities and resources are designed to reach all members of the community with many collaborations that reach even children and grandparents. Their supportive and extensive knowlege of the local pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum scene make them more than just helpful, they're downright necessary. GO BIRTHNET!

Great Resource for all Parents

Reviewed By Deborah Cooper / December 31, 2009

Birthnet is a comprehensive resource for moms - and yes, dads - in the region. When I first moved to Ithaca almost 3 years ago Birthnet was just forming, but even in the early days, there was a constant stream of information coming out. I cannot stress what a great source of comfort it was to find the group as I planned my VBAC (which was successful!) More than most groups I have belonged to, the members in it seem to bend over backwards to help each other, find that elusive piece of info that someone may have requested and generally support one another in their journey. Ever since then, I have watched the organization grow and wow! what an organization Birthnet has grown into! Such an inspiring group which now offers steady, reliable support, advocacy and, especially important, news on hot topics that affect all of our choices as parents. I will continue to check in with what's happening at Birthnet and am so glad that it continues to flourish and help all the future mothers of the region.

BirthNet

Reviewed By Jenna Sybert / December 31, 2009

I am new to BirthNet, but I did take the survey. I think it is a great way to get information out to the public. Sometimes women are unaware of our great local resources, and this is a great place to start gathering information. I am happy to have information and like mentioned in a prior review to have OPTIONS! Birth is not a onesize fits all event.

I love that BirthNet offers other information to mother's and caregivers as well. Many of the sites mentioned (ie. breastfeeding support, yoga classes etc.) are important resources for women to have access to as the internet provides a overwhelming display of information.

Mamas make a difference!

Reviewed By Jeanette McCulloch / December 31, 2009

BirthNet is a great way for mamas -- and their families -- to get active and show their support for birthing options in Ithaca. All families should have access to a wide variety of safe birth providers, and BirthNet is working hard to make that a reality in the Ithaca area.

For Hope and Knowledge

Reviewed By Jessica Brown / December 31, 2009

My recent experiences with pregnancy and labor in Tompkins County have solidified my strong support of BirthNet. When I talk to my sisters who are pregnant and planning their births and I see how very limited the information they are presented with is (and most of the info form the doctors is cold, sterile and one-size-fits-all bologna).

We have OPTIONS, and we can reclaim our baby making. Way to go, BirthNet, for standing strong on this front.

Wishing Well