I did not like this book one bit. I was doing a lot of research on natural childbirth for my second child, and while there were some good suggestions, and I did like the sections on what to expect AFTER the birth of the baby, it was a little too alternative for me. I found that most books about natural childbirth were a little strange for me, and this book was no exception (though it was a little more mild than some of them I read!). If you are certain you are going to have a natural childbirth, then this may be the book for you. But if you are wavering, like I was, don't bother reading this. It is pretty much required that your partner read this book as well, and since I knew there was no way whatsoever my husband would not read it, it ended up being a total waste of time.

Bookstore bookshelves are bursting with books about childbirth. These books prepare the expectant mother for the changes her body is about to experience, give advice on what to purchase for the nursery, or talk about bonding with the new baby in the nursery.

This book is different. In my desire to make my second experience of childbirth different from my first, my doula recommended I consider this book. Pam England has fundamentally shifted the way that the reader will think about her pregnancy from a medicalized event that needs to be managed; to a place of wonder and cultural meaning. England recommends tapping into the creative center to express the pregnant woman’s emotions and connect with the pregnancy. Even those who do not consider themselves to be artists can benefit from this approach. I, for example, found an image of a pregnant woman with a spiral of energy very resonant and often recreated this cultural symbol. This book provided me with an experience that was necessary in changing how I viewed birth.

Overall, this book is recommended to all expectant mothers. It will provide centering and information on the journey of the pregnancy rather than the outcome.

After being disappointed by delivering two of my children in hospitals, I decided to look for a better alternative. When I found out I was expecting my 3rd, I decided to give birth at a freestanding birth center. Finally, I was able to make my own decisions about my prenatal care and birth experience.

Unfortunately, most of the mainstream pregnancy books were no longer appealing to me. I had read them all and I knew that I needed something with more depth. Birthing From Within provided that depth.

The excerpts in the book written by real women reflected so many of my own thoughts, fears and emotions about giving birth. I learned that I was not the only one disappointed by the conventional view of pregnancy and childbirth. All of the content made me really think HARD about so many aspects of my pregnancy and labor.

Using the techniques in this book made such a difference. It even prompted me to seek out a Birthing From Within mentor and take a childbirth preparation class.

By the time I gave birth to my daughter, I was confident and at peace with all of my childbirth decisions. I went on to have a fast, beautiful and 100% intervention free delivery. It was by far the most amazing experience I could ever imagined. I know that without this book I would not have had nearly as much confidence and calmness as I did.

So, if you are pregnant and looking for something different; something that will make you ask questions and find answers, GET THIS BOOK!