Review: The Doula Guide to Birth

The Doula Guide to Birth
Ananda Lowe & Rachel Zimmerman
2009; 270 pages

Having been a doula myself, I eagerly dived into this book. Knowing how beneficial a doula can be to a laboring couple, I wanted to see that unique perspective in written form. I was not disappointed. I do feel that in explaining and praising all the benefits doulas can give, the authors almost went overboard. At times I felt like I was reading a very long commercial.

Even so, once I got into the heart of the book, I clearly saw its merits. This book is written for the mainstream pregnant woman. The woman who will be birthing at the hospital and may be overwhelmed by all the protocols and rules she finds herself faced with. I was that woman once, so I found a way to relate to the women telling their stories in this book. The quotes from real parents that illustrate the points really do help make it all real.

Coming from my now non-mainstream mentality, I was happy to see so many different ways to cope with contractions. From epidurals to massage and belly dancing, Ananda and Rachel really explained all of the options open to birthing women. I loved the chapter on unplanned epidurals and cesareans. These things happen. You may not be prepared for how you will feel afterwards. Grief and healing are discussed at length to help women faced with these issues.

Birth plans and birth essays are explained in detail. I had never heard of a birth essay, but I can surely see their benefit for opening up the lines of communication with your care givers about your emotional needs. While I did not agree with everything in this book, I can certainly see its benefits. How I wish a book like this were available when I was having my first baby. Instead, I had "What to Expect When You're Expecting." This book puts that one to shame. Instead of teaching moms how to be a good patient, The Doula Guide to Birth opens up your eyes to the possibilities of what you can do in any birthing situation.


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