Doula

Starred review from April 1, 2013

There are simply not many books in print that exclusively address doulas. Instead, the subject is often given a brief nod in larger, medicalized pregnancy books. Midwife, author, and doula trainer Ross here offers a lovely, convincing, and succinct guide to the importance of doulas and their significant success in lowering medical interventions, helping pregnant women understand their choices, providing invaluable support to both mom and dad, and increasing rates of breastfeeding, to name but a few positive outcomes. While the book's Australian provenance is obvious, it does not impede understanding for the reader, and information on pregnancy and birth in many different nations--including the United States--is outlined and explained. Covering such topics as birth plans, conquering fear, prenatal care, and breastfeeding, the book is accompanied by black-and-white photographs and includes many birth stories throughout. VERDICT This hopeful and encouraging book should be widely available in public libraries. In combination with Ina May Gaskin's Birth Matters (2011) and Penelope Leach's Child Care Today (2009), it offers an abundance of wisdom to be thankful for and--better yet--implemented. Let the world take note.

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