For an entire generation of new parents, this warm, expert work has become the standard guide to the shortest, easiest, and healthiest childbirth. Now a thoroughly updated and revised edition offers new research showing how labour support reduces the rate of cesarean sections, length of labour, need for pain medicine, and number of episiotomies. New material also demonstrates the positive effects of having a doula on mother-infant bonding, how relatives or friends can be trained in labour support, and how hypnosis is used to ease and shorten labour. No expectant parent will want to be without this empowering and irreplaceable book.

The mighty bond between parent and child is one of the enduring wonders of psychology. John Kennell and Marshall and Phyllis Klaus bring decades of research, insight, and clinical practice into one book that offers parents, and those who care for them during pregnancy, everything they need to know to enhance this essential relationship. This important work explores the effects of various birth practices and situations--prenatal testing, labor support, testing of newborns, breast feeding, prematurity, and adoption--on the parents' feelings and on the development of later attachment and independence.

With statistics showing that 1 in 5 women have experienced some form of sexual abuse, it is likely that all birth professionals will support a survivor of such abuse at some point during their career. This book provides practical advice for those supporting these women throughout their pregnancy, labour, and postnatal periods. The impact of past sexual abuse on women during these periods is often underestimated, and this book shows the need for greater compassion and understanding in maternity services regarding this issue. Drawing on a vast range of research and expertise, this book includes details on the identifiable behaviours of survivors, how to respond when someone says they are a survivor, positive stories, and appropriate language to use. This book is for any care provider who wants to help pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period become a healing experience for those carrying trauma, and to support these survivors with compassion, respect and kindness.

Corbin Lewars' memoir, Creating a Life, shares the bumpy road that led Corbin to motherhood and her career as a writer. Deformed sperm, a miscarriage, and quitting her job to become an editor only to have that publication become bankrupt were a few hurdles that she crossed along the way. But Corbin not only survives, she thrives, and is able to share her story in a heartfelt and humorous way. An empowering and true story. If you've created life, if you dream of creating life, if you love someone who is creating life-this is the book for you." Ariel Gore, author of Bluebird: Women and the New Psychology of Happiness "Lewars writes about disappointment and trauma without a trace of self-pity; her story is honest and raw, her outlook hopeful heartwarming." -Midge Raymond, author of Forgetting English. Creating A Life is one of the most exquisite and brave memoirs I have read in years. The message of hope and dedication is universal]reaching women of all ages. Feminist Review ]thought provoking and uplifting].for every woman who has doubted her ability to do what she really wanted to]. Hip Mama Magazine

"Every once in a while, a book comes along that can fill a void. This book, Suckle, Sleep, Thrive, based on over 40 years of experience, addresses almost every concern that a mother may have as she takes on the role of nourishing and nurturing her baby. The issues facing new parents, both in their development as parents and the baby’s enormously busy development in every dimension, is explored." -Phyllis Klaus, LMFT, LMSW Are you determined to breastfeed? Why wait for problems to arise when you can learn how to prevent them now? Finally, there is a book that will increase your odds of breastfeeding success well before you take your newborn in your arms—Suckle, Sleep, Thrive: Breastfeeding Success through Understanding Your Baby’s Cues and Unique Temperament. Nationally renowned pediatric nurse Andrea Herron, RN, MN, CPNP, IBCLC coaches how to achieve effective breastfeeding, then offers treatment and feeding plans to overcome the most common challenges. The book unveils a parenting approach known as Baby Watching that will help you understand your newborn’s abilities and communication, from subtle cues to confusing behaviors. Identifying your baby’s traits and any sensitivities will help you learn how your baby needs to be nurtured. Discover how to reduce tears, promote sleep, and help your baby thrive in the first year and beyond while reaching your breastfeeding goals.