Joyous Childbirth Changes the World

“No matter how science has progressed, childbirth, in essence, has remained unchanged from ancient times . . . [It] is the last natural process left to us,” writes internationally lauded obstetrician Dr. Tadashi Yoshimura. “The fact that it has remained unchanged means that there is truth in it.” The truth and power of birth is the subject of Dr. Yoshimura’s first book published in the United States. Yoshimura describes babies born so directly into the arms of their mothers that they do not cry, and women so transformed with pride and passion in their ability that they are joyous and forever changed. Instead of a medical emergency, Yoshimura describes birth as a transcendent and natural process that cannot be perfected, and that, when performed through the innate power of women, reveals what he calls a “mystic beauty.” Full of delightful stories of birthing women and peaceful smiling infants, and helpful tips from his childbirth preparation program, Joyous Childbirth Changes the World is a must-read for all expectant parents and those who care for them. Yoshimura’s clinic serves as a testament to the kind of compassionate birth culture that is possible if we prioritize the health and experience of women and babies.

DR. TADASHI YOSHIMURA is a Japanese obstetrician and natural birth advocate. His maternity clinic in Okazaki, Japan, is known internationally for its incredibly positive birth outcomes including a 3.4% Cesarean rate, despite the clinic accepting many high-risk patients.

Called "the mother of authentic midwifery," INA MAY GASKIN has practiced for nearly forty years at The Farm Midwifery Center, which is noted for its low rates of intervention, morbidity and mortality. She is the only midwife for whom an obstetric maneuver has been named (the Gaskin maneuver). Gaskin lives in Tennessee.

Foreword 7

Translator’s Note 11

Dedication and Acknowledgments 15

Chapter 1: How I Switched to Natural Childbirth 17

Chapter 2: Natural Childbirth is Life-changing 57

Chapter 3: Science-Oriented Western Medicine Has Spoiled Childbirth 77

Chapter 4: Childbirth is a Spiritual Experience 115

Chapter 5: In Search of a Society with Life 131

Conclusion 153