Alternative Birth: The Complete Guide

Discusses alternative birth methods such as waterbirth, midwifery care, birth at home, and birth in a childbearing center

This book is a detailed consumer guide to alternatives to conventional hospital delivery: birth at home, in a birthing center, midwife-attended birth, and waterbirth. The pros and cons of each approach, the planning involved, the role of caregivers, identifying and coping with medical emergencies, and questions to ask are thoroughly reviewed. Given the desired outcomes of a healthy baby, a safe birth, and a positive experience, the author compiles convincing evidence that an alternative birth is a viable option for the low-risk mother. A selective directory and list of suggested readings provide additional resources. One of the most useful sections in this informative primer describes types of midwives and the training and licensure requirements for each. Recommended for public library health collections.
- Kathryn H. Carpenter, Univ. of Illinois Lib., Chicago
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.