Reproduction, Kin and Climate Crisis: Making Bushfire Babies

The book explores the experiences of pregnant women and their partners during the Australian bushfire season of 2019-20 and the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on how climate crisis is changing experiences of having children and raising questions about gender and sexuality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This book delves into the profound and multifaceted experiences of pregnant women and their partners during the catastrophic Australian bushfire season of 2019-20 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic. Through an interdisciplinary lens, the authors explore how the climate crisis is reshaping the very essence of childbirth, encompassing concepts such as the Pyrocene, breath, care, and embodiment. They delve into the intricate ways in which climate change is altering the experiences of becoming a parent, raising thought-provoking questions about how gender and sexuality are shaped by the historical interplay between humans and fire. This comprehensive analysis intertwines feminist and queer perspectives on reproduction and kin with ongoing debates surrounding contemporary planetary crises.

The catastrophic Australian bushfire season of 2019-20 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic brought forth a range of challenges and disruptions to the lives of pregnant women and their partners. The Pyrocene, a period of global warming driven by human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbated the already challenging conditions during this period. The bushfires not only posed immediate threats to human lives and property but also created a pervasive sense of fear and uncertainty.

As the bushfires raged on, pregnant women and their partners faced numerous challenges. Many were forced to evacuate their homes, leaving behind their belongings and disrupting their prenatal care routines. Others were trapped in areas affected by the fires, unable to access essential medical services or support networks. The stress and anxiety associated with these circumstances could have negative effects on both the mother and the baby's health.

In addition to the physical challenges, the bushfires and the pandemic also had significant emotional and psychological impacts on pregnant women and their partners. The fear and uncertainty surrounding the fires and the pandemic could lead to increased stress levels, anxiety, and depression. Many women experienced feelings of isolation and loneliness, as they were unable to connect with their support networks or receive the emotional support they needed during this time.

The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the challenges faced by pregnant women and their partners. The pandemic required strict social distancing measures, which made it difficult for women to receive prenatal care and attend childbirth classes. Many hospitals and clinics were overwhelmed, making it challenging to provide adequate care to pregnant women and their babies. Additionally, the pandemic led to job losses and financial insecurity, which could have further negative effects on the well-being of families.

Despite these challenges, there were also moments of resilience and strength during the bushfire season and the pandemic. Many pregnant women and their partners found ways to support each other and maintain a sense of normalcy during these difficult times. They relied on their communities and support networks to provide emotional and practical support. Some women also found solace in practicing mindfulness and meditation, which helped them manage their stress and anxiety.

The experiences of pregnant women and their partners during the climate crisis highlight the urgent need for action to address the impacts of climate change on human health and well-being. The climate crisis is not just a global environmental issue but also a public health crisis that affects individuals and communities around the world. Governments, organizations, and individuals must take urgent steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in climate resilience, and support vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and their families.

In conclusion, the book explores the experiences of pregnant women and their partners during the catastrophic Australian bushfire season of 2019-20 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic. Through an interdisciplinary lens, the authors highlight how the climate crisis is reshaping the very essence of childbirth, raising important questions about gender, sexuality, and reproduction in the context of contemporary planetary crises. The experiences of pregnant women and their partners during this period serve as a reminder of the urgent need for action to address the impacts of climate change on human health and well-being.

Weight: 352g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529226850