Having a normal birth in a Hospital Setting

What do we mean when we talk about a "normal birth"? According to Lamaze International, a normal birth is one that unfolds naturally, free of unnecessary interventions. But in the U.S. what we have come to  expect as normal, is general begun through an induction of Pitocin.  Although, inductions can be very necessary due to the health of the baby and or mother, it is often suggested because a woman is favorable for an induction.  Meaning she shows signs that her body has begun to dilate and efface,and the baby is moving lower into the birth canal.  Unfortunately, this is more often for the benefit of the delivering ob, versus the baby.
Lamaze advocates six care practices that do not interfere with the natural process of labor.  These care practices are based upon the findings of quality research.

• Labor should begin upon it's own
• Freedom of movement throughout labor
• Continuous emotional & physical support
• No routine interventions
• Spontaneous pushing in non-supine positions
• No separation of mother and baby, unlimited opportunity for breastfeeding.

This is a simple, yet lovely video from Injoy that reviews all of the care practices.  The women in the video are clearly in tune with their bodies, while receiving continuous support from their partners, and care providers.  There is no music typical in today's birthing shows that sound like a life and death struggle, with the beat mimicking the fetal heart rate monitor.  A cascade of interventions are not on display with the mother lying flat on her back from the time she arrives in her room to the delivery of her child.  Once born, the baby isn't whisked to a warmer, but rather allowed to be cradled in their mother's arms and breastfeeding initiated if desired.