The Doula Guide to Birth Secrets Every Pregnant Woman Should Know

Here is your guide to the fastest-growing trend in childbirtha tradition as old as motherhood itself.Doulas,or professional labor assistants, have led thousands of expectant women through the birthing process in a way that's safe and meaningful, and that creates the birth and postbirth experience all mothers long for. What exactly dodoulas do? How to find one that suitsyou. What are the "trade secrets" only doulas know but every woman should be aware of (even if youdon'thave a doula)? InThe Doula Guide to Birth,senior-level doula Ananda Lowe and award-winning health reporter Rachel Zimmerman have written a most comprehensive book that draws on the wisdom of these skilled experts, whose experience with doctors, midwives, nurses, and hospitals makes them invaluable advocates before, during, and after birth. * Labor techniques anyone can use * Pain medication: do you, don't youand when? * What dads and loved ones need and can do best * When should youreallygo to the hospital in labor? * How to prepare for unexpected medical procedures, including cesareans and epidural * Postpartumwhat it's really like * A clip-out chart of labor techniques, birth plan worksheets, and much more Combining science, wit, warmth, and support, as well as the inspirational stories of dozens of mothers and their partners, you'll find the "doula viewpoint" on every major pregnancy and delivery issue, making this one of the most important childbirth books you'll ever read and recommend.

Ananda Lowe served for seven years as Assistant Director of the Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators, which conducts the oldest doula-training program in the country. She is currently a senior-level doula in Boston as well as a maternity massage specialist.

Rachel Zimmerman is an award-winning reporter who covers health and medicine for the Wall Street Journal. She lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts.