Press Release
The Birth Partner, Third Edition (press release)
A Complete Guide to Childbirth for Dads, Doulas, and All Other Labor Companions
by Penny Simkin
For almost two decades, The Birth Partner has been the definitive guide for husbands, partners, relatives, friends, and professional doulas (labor assistants) who wish to help a woman have a healthy and emotionally fulfilling childbirth experience. Nationally renowned childbirth educator Penny Simkin now brings us a newly expanded and up-to-date third edition, with all the information caregivers need.
In the years since this classic book was first published, the birthing room has changed dramatically. Once, it was a place where a woman was left alone with a medical staff; now, it’s common for family, friends, and caregivers to be present during the birth. The atmosphere has shifted from efficiently medical to warm and celebratory. Moreover, it’s not always in a hospital setting: Increasingly, women opt to give birth at home with a midwife, surrounded by loved ones.
In The Birth Partner, Third Edition, Penny Simkin provides all the information that a labor companion needs to know, from tips on choosing a doula to helping ease pain during labor and anticipating postpartum issues. Throughout the book, the partner’s role is emphasized and the doula’s role is explained and clarified. Designed for easy reference and with new illustrations, this book is essential reading for anyone who wishes to be a calming and reassuring presence in the birthing room.
The Birth Partner, Third Edition, presents comprehensive information on topics such as:
- the ongoing debate about cesarean births
- potential medical procedures and interventions that a partner should know about
- how best to help the mother during the early postpartum period
- the pros and cons of circumcision
- coping with post-birth fatigue, including Simkin’s “Recipe for Getting Enough Sleep”
The Birth Partner, Third Edition
ISBN-13: 978-1-55832-2357-5, Paperback, $16.95
