The Birth Partner

August 1, 1989
Simkin, author, childbirth educator, and assitant at hundreds of births, has written a wonderfully supportive book for birth partners. She includes detailed information on length and stages of labor and delivery, and describes medical procedures. Medical terms are well defined. Other topics include types of pain medication and their effects; suggestions for comfort measures during labor and delivery; and what to expect in an emergency birth, Cesarean section, or stillbirth. Especially useful is the book's "tab" system for easy identification of pages with "on-the-spot" information. This is a more detailed source than The Birth Partner by Carl Jones with Jan Jones ( LJ 5/1/89). Recommended.-- Jodith Janes, Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Copyright 1989 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 1989
To give the birth partner a clear understanding of the process of bearing a baby, and the role that he or she is to play, Simkin thoroughly examines parturition, from essential supplies for mother and baby to how to handle an emergency delivery. She writes knowledgeably and in a readable style, but has an unfortunate habit of tendering gratuitous advice (she notes that the partner can help the mother during the ``birth phase'' by staying ``close by''). She also fails to explain certain suggestions (why does the birth partner need a swimsuit to shower with the mother?). At her best, Simkin makes the birth partner aware of medical decisions that may lie ahead and of the importance of indulging the mother with constant tender loving care and encouragement during labor and delivery. But those who have attended a competently taught childbirth preparation class will find much of the text familiar. Simkin, herself an instructor, wrote Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn: A Complete Guide for Expectant Parents. Illustrations not seen by PW.