In Summary

Breathing, changes of posture, movement, massage, relaxation, visualization, focused concentration, making sounds, expressing your feelings, the love and support of your partner, family and friends, self-hypnosis, acupuncture and acupressure, (a small portable acupuncture machine known as the TENS machine can be rented for use during labour, and some have found these very helpful), are all possible tools for dealing successfully with the real pain of childbirth.

Resources

THE EXPERIENCE OF CHILDBIRTH, by Sheila Kitzinger (1986) is written by one of the world's foremost childbirth educators, also a respected anthropologist and mother of five daughters. In her classic book, she integrates the physical, social and psychological aspects of giving birth in a positive, realistic and highly readable style. She also describes the breathing and relaxation exercises that provide such a useful tool during labour and delivery.

AN EASIER CHILDBIRTH, A Mother's Workbook for Health and Emotional Well-Being during Pregnancy and Delivery, by Gayle Peterson (1991). This excellent workbook enables a mother sort out her emotions, beliefs and expectations around birth, and create a supportive environment for herself as well as a personalized birthing plan.

MIND OVER LABOUR; USING THE MIND'S POWER TO REDUCE PAIN IN CHILDBIRTH, by Carl Jones (1987) is an eight step method using mental imagery to prepare for birth.

EASING LABOUR PAIN, by Adrienne Lieberman (revised 1992). This is a comprehensive discussion of bio-feedback, acupressure, breathing, relaxation, hypnosis, labour coaches, medications and all other techniques to make birthing more positive.

JOURNEY THROUGH BIRTH, two tape cassettes, a childbirth preparation course by Sheila Kitzinger, the renowned childbirth educator.

A BIRTH CLASS, Focus on Labour and Delivery. This 115 minute video, in five segments, shows two childbirth educators teaching four women and their partners the skills they need for labour and birth.

All the above are available by mail order from:

• PARENTBOOKS, 201 Harbord St Toronto, ON, M5S 1HS. 416-537-8334.

• BIRTH AND LIFE BOOKSTORE, 7001 Alonzo Ave NW, PO Box 70625, Seattle, WA 98107-0625. 206-789-4444.