“The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth” by Henci Goer - wonderfully written, though, like her other books, it is a little on the weighty side with information (just up my alley). She writes a comprehensive study guide, in very lay-friendly wording, to the medical studies - and why medical studies themselves support NCB without saying so. Fully referencable.
”Birthing from Within”by Pam England - a spiritual journey into the beauty and self-power of childbirth. A little on the hippy side, but I love her poetic writing and no-holds-barred approach to the act of childbirth.
“Guide to Childbirth” by Ina May Gaskin - on my favorites right now. I have read it around 5 times . Traditional midwifery meets practical application and psychological connection of mind-body. It is full of inspiring birth stories. Her holistic approach to childbirth is refreshing and challenges even the most staunch NCB advocate to trade in their biases just a little more for faith in the miraculous art of birthing.
“Husband Coached Childbirth” by Dr. Robert Bradley - originally written in the 1950's, it is a strong book on the Bradley Method - it's history, teachings, and beliefs. It is written in the perspective for the coach and can be a bit chauvenistic, but it is another wonderfully informative read on how laboring animals can teach us how we, as higher species, can eliminate unneccessary pain and discomfort in childbirth by modelling after their behavior and stages of laboring.
“Christ Centered Childbirth” by Kelly J. Townsend - the teachings of Robert Bradley from a Christian POV. Keeping creation and God's design as the forefront and premises for all teachings.
“The Labor Progress Handbook” by Penny Simkin - delving into such sticky situations as dystocia and failure to progress, Penny meets the challenge of reasons given for cesarean deliveries. This book focuses on simple non-invasive interventions to prevent or treat difficult labor. It describes positions, movements and techniques based on principles of anatomy, physiology and psychology of childbirth. This handbook is organized by stage of labor for easy reference. The rationale for all techniques is included based on the authors' clinical experience and wherever possible on the underlying evidence base.
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" by LLL Int. - My favorite book on breastfeeding. A little heavier a read than the Breastfeeding Book, but written from the experts on breastfeeding themselves. It is a great companion for encouragement and information to all breastfeeding mothers and those anticipating breastfeeding. Study-based information and support for common difficulties faced in breastfeeding, it is a must-have.
"The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin - This book gives the birth partner a clear understanding of the process of bearing a baby and the role that he or she is to play. Simkin thoroughly examines parturition, from essential supplies for mother and baby to how to handle an emergency delivery. At her best, Simkin makes the birth partner aware of medical decisions that may lie ahead and of the importance of indulging the mother with constant tender loving care and encouragement during labor and delivery.
“Mothering the Mother” by Marsha Klaus – a required reading on many apprentice-doula lists, this book is easy to read with comprehensive and well organized information on everything ‘mothering’ to do and not to do to assist a labor
