The Birth Partner

A woman in labor can receive great strength from those around her, whether it's a spouse, partner, mother, sister, friend or doula. To prepare for that monumental role, refer to The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin.

This book teaches you about pre-labor preparations, phases of labor, relaxation techniques, labor and pushing positions, medications, breastfeeding, and the postpartum process.

I've spoken to a lot of people who have attended births and wanted to be helpful but didn't know what to do. Maybe they didn't understand how labor progresses, how to physically help alleviate back labor, or what type of breathing helps a woman while pushing. Add The Birth Partner to your library and refer to it frequently. It will give you the knowledge you need to know how to help the woman you love while she's in labor and recuperating afterward.