It's time for a review of a doula book! Yes, this is my first book review. No, this isn't the first book I read. For more information on my doula adventures, check out the Doula Adventures page above.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Summary: Cynthia Gabriel is a doula who understands some parents may want a natural birth while being close to the resources hospitals offer. She details each stage of labor and delivery, and offers advice for writing birth plans.
Favorite Lesson: When facing medical staff who want to begin a medical {not natural} procedure, Gabriel suggests asking, "Can we wait an hour?" This technique often diffuses tense situations because parents aren't arguing, and if something truly is an emergency, the answer will be "no." The vast majority of medical interventions can be put off with the simple question: "Can we wait an hour?"
Other Highlights: Gabriel provides examples of written birth plans for midwives, doulas, doctors, nurses, etc. She also describes each stage of labor with great detail and attention to not just the physical but also the emotional changes. Within each stage, Gabriel suggests a variety of coping techniques. Also addressed are VBACs and high-risk pregnancies.
I really, really enjoyed this book. Anyone {mother, father, labor assistant, medical team} could read this book and gain from the experience. Gabriel wrote very clearly, and you can tell that she is passionate about what she does. I love that Gabriel is very open about valid concerns and varying experiences; she doesn't push only natural birth or condemn those who use modern medicine. The goal is very clearly at the forefront of her mind: healthy mom, healthy baby.