Contents
Massage.................................................................................................................................................................................. 42 Hydrotherapy........................................................................................................................................................................ 43 Breathing................................................................................................................................................................................ 44 Mental Relaxation................................................................................................................................................................ 45 Relaxation Scripts................................................................................................................................................................ 46 Labor Positions and Movement............................................................................................................................. 47 – 48 Comfort Tips.......................................................................................................................................................................... 49 Second and Third Stages.................................................................................................................................................. 50 Alternative and Medical Options.................................................................................................................................. 51
Life with Baby 52 – 69
Postpartum: What to Expect................................................................................................................................... 53 – 54 Physical Recovery........................................................................................................................................................ 55 – 56 Cesarean Recovery............................................................................................................................................................. 57 Baby Blues............................................................................................................................................................................. 58 Mental Health...................................................................................................................................................................... 59 A Healthy Transition.......................................................................................................................................................... 60 Getting to Know Your Newborn................................................................................................................................... 61 Newborn Procedures................................................................................................................................................. 62 – 63 Newborn Care............................................................................................................................................................... 64 – 65 Breastfeeding................................................................................................................................................................ 66 – 69
Glossary.................................................................................................................................................. 70 – 72 Photo Credits............................................................................................................................................... 73 Your Preferences.................................................................................................................................. 74 – 76 Checklist for Labor..................................................................................................................................... 77
Wherever you see this plum symbol, you will find an important topic highlighted. Often, there are several different options or approaches. You may wish to discuss your questions and preferences with your partner or health care provider( doctor or midwife). Doing so will help you make an educated decision about the approach that is best for your family.
This book includes interactive questions and tables on pages 74 – 76 to help you evaluate your priorities. In addition, take special note of the pages covering warning signs: 5, 56, 65 and 69.