Personal Stories, Facts and Advice
Bringing a baby into the world is a profound and wonderful experience, but it is also a strenuous physical activity that can be less than glamorous and, for many, a little nervewracking. There are many books explaining the medical facts of pregnancy and childbirth and the options available, but few that are able to give the personal perspective on birth.
Many different women share their experience of giving birth. In their own words they tell their fear, joy, pain, excitement and the nitty gritty of contractions, hot packs, episiotomies and final stages. Each story has been selected to provide insight into different aspects of labour: natural, caesarean, twin and home births. From the 1-hour labour to the 40-hour labour, from those lucky enough to have no pain to premature births and those needing to be induced. Each woman's reaction and experience is different, but they share their stories with honesty and directness so that others may feel prepared for whatever their birth may bring.
Throughout the book, advice is given by midwives, obstetricians and other health professionals on many of the common conditions or events that may arise during labour and pregnancy. Medical terms are explained, and there are plenty of tips and hints on important topics from morning sickness to things you can do to avoid an episiotomy.
