Recommendations
by Birth Balance
Books - Water Immersion / Birth
Active
Birth : The New Approach to Giving Birth Naturally
, Revised Edition by Janet Balaskas, Linda Ziedrich (Editor),
Sheila Kitzinger(Foreword), (Harvard Common Press, April
1992.) |
The Aquatic Ape, by Elaine Morgan, (Stein and Day Publishers, Scarborough House, New York, 1982.) This theory, first propounded by Professor Alister Hardy, has gained a considerable following in all parts of the world, but until now the evidence of it has been scattered and difficult to evaluate. Here for the first time it is presented in one volume in terms that the layman can understand and the scientist will find difficult to ignore. This theory suggests a period of aquatic adaptation, followed by a return to the land was the decisive factor in the evolution of man.
|
Aqua
Yoga,
by Carol. Beck; (Drake Publishers, 1976.) |
Aqua Yoga, By Francoise Freedman. A comprehensive guide to the therapeutic and soothing nature of yoga in water for pregnancy, birth and beyond. This book features a unique series of exercises developed by the author over many years to combine the therapeutic and buoyant nature of water with the energizing and harmonizing effect of yoga. (September 2000.) |
Choosing a Water Birth by Beverley A. Lawrence Beech (UK: AIMS, ISBN #1874413045, 1996.) A short yet informative booklet written in order to help those who may experience difficulties in getting what they want from a water related experience. For most it will provide an interesting insight into the kind of problems which can occur. For the minority who find themselves in difficulty, this booklet will give you the means and the confidence to persist in obtaining the best for yourselves and your babies. |
Choosing Waterbirth: Reclaiming the Sacred Power of Birth Lakshimi Bertram (forthcoming: Hampton Roads Publishing Company, 2000.) A yoga instructor and mother of five shares a revelation: childbirth doesn't have to be painful, stressful, or degrading. In this age of the epidural epidemic, when birth is treated as surgery or illness, Choosing Waterbirth details how to make childbirth a positive experience, both empowering and beautiful. Bertram, who chose the waterbirth method for each of her children, gently explains how this natural, harmonious, healthy, and low-pain birth method allows women to reclaim the dignity and sacredness that is the true essence of the birth experience. |
The
Complete Prenatal Water Workout Book,by Helga Hughes,
(Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing Group Inc.,
1989.) |
Cross Your Bridges When You Come To Them by Estelle Myers, Hon. PhD. (Australia: Self-Published, 1999.) There is nothing original in this book! The most amazing fact is that it was written in 1976! A powerful potion of practical common sense drawn from pwersonal experience- empowering individuals to make their dreams into reality, to expect only miracles. Proving that nothing is impossible or that lack of money is not lack of personal power. Written by one of the grandmothers of waterbirth and "dolphinicity."
|
The Descent of the Child: Human Evolution From a New Perspective by Elaine Morgon(New York, Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1995.) In her much debated earlier works, Morgan has championed the controversial Aquatic Ape Theory of human evolution against the widely accepted Savannah Theory. The Descent of the Child takes her further into the fray with a provocative new argument adding new evidence to support AAT even as she explores such urgent topics as conception and infertility, the maturation of the fetus, child rearing and parental roles, overpopulation, and a woman's place in society. This fascinating book should be read by parents (both new and soon to be) as well as anyone interested in child development or human evolution. Offering a controversial theory of the evolution of human intelligence, the author of Descent of the Child argues that the infant holds the key to evolution and considers evolution from the point of view of infant development. |
Fluid Beginnings,Early Infant Aquatic Education, By Basia Szpak, DEC, LMT (September 2000.) A lovely paper back by a waterbirth mother, certified watsu instructor and therapist instructor. This book covers information on energy medicines, the three respirations and the actual work developed by Basia Szpak, herself. Informative, inspirational and great resource list in appendix. |
Gentle Birth Choices: A Guide to Making Informed Decisions About Birthing Centers, Birth Attendants, Water Birth, Home Birth, Hospital Birth by Barbara Harper, RN (Vermont: Healing Arts Press, 1994.) Believe
it or not, birth resulting from a normal pregnancy
needn't take place in a hospital. Harper explains
why birthing centers and home births, along
with other "gentle birth choices," are beneficial
to both mother and baby. Harper also discusses
giving birth in water and explores the connection
of mind and body during labor and birth. She
stresses the importance of midwives for a more
natural and satisfying experience. Well illustrated
with photos by acclaimed birth photographer
Suzanne Arms and containing a first-rate resource
section, Gentle Birth Choices provides an excellent
alternative to mainstream birth books. Jo Peer-Haas |
Healing Power of Birth by Rima Beth Star (Texas: Star Publishing, 1986.) As women we are virtually concerned about the ethics, environment and future of this planet for our children. Therefore, like the Stars, the deeper we can go into ourselves and our origins, the more we can begin to enter social and cosmic realms of understanding. Rima's pioneering efforts in sharing her story will empower other mothers to come forth and explore the spiritual and healing power of birth. |
Inward Journey Outward Bound, A New Paradigm for Conscious Birthing by Irv Wieder. (Published by Irv Wieder, New Mexico 1999.) A stunning little book with profound sensitivity and respect for the preconception, prenatal, labor and birth experience. A self published work of art the simple yet exquisitely presented photographs bring back the possibility of a safer, more gentler tomorrow as a result of a softer more conscious prenatal and birth today. There are a limited number of copies so make sure you don't miss out on this treasure of wisdom and love. |
Labor Pain, A Natural Approach to Easing Delivery, By NickyWesson. A book full of inspiring stories and useful advice ("Wild Yam: Good for Women who are Nervous") for any woman considering a more spiritually pleasing alternative to the soulless hospital delivery room. However, at times author Nicky Wesson makes claims that seem overly optimistic. Not only was her own natural labor a deeper, more satisfying experience, she says, but it was actually less painful than her "hospital births, which involved induction,epidural, laboring flat on my back, forceps, and emergency cesarean section." It is hard to imagine this is true--surely anesthesia must be good for something. Nonetheless, any woman considering home birth will want to consult Wesson's book. (Beliefnet, June 2000) |
Midwifery Today Magazine, "Waterbirth Issue, Summer, 2000, Number 54," by Midwifery Today. Numerous articles regarding the latest research on waterbirth. "The First Hospital Birthing Pool - Michel Odent," "Waterbirth Basics - Barbara Harper," "Aquadural, Douladural Replace the Epidural, " Judith Halek, "VBAC Waterbirth," and more. |
Mothering Magazine, "Warm Welcome, A Water Birth Revolution,(Nov/Dec 2000) by Shelly P. Albini. & "Aqua Baby, Birth At Home In A Tub," by Nicole Lundrigan. Two article's by mothers in Mothering Magazine, Nov/Dec 2000, No. 103. Pgs. 52-58. To order: www.mothering.com |
Ocean Born: Birth as Initiation by Chris Griscom (Germany: Wilhelm Goldmann VERLAG, 1989.) A world premiere: Chris Griscom shows the birth of her son Bapu, the world's first-ever ocean born baby. This unique experience is documented in breathtaking photographs and highly personalized texts on the subject of conception and birthing. Chris Griscom regards birth as a spiritual initiation and a gateway to our multidimensional existence. |
Reclaiming The Spirituality Of Birth: Healing For Mothers And Babies, By Mauger A therapist and childbirth educator shows how connection to nature and the spiritual world can heal birth trauma and preserve the health and well-being of mothers and babies. * Encourages mothers to reconnect with nature and spirit to heal old wounds and have deeply satisfying birthexperiences. * Provides convincing evidence that prenatal and birth experiences have a lifelong effect on emotional health. Fosters a close and abiding bond between mother and child. (216 pages March 2000) by Chris Griscom (Germany: Wilhelm Goldmann VERLAG, 1989). |
Teaching
an infant to swim. The gentle and natural
way to introduce your baby to lifelong confidence
in the water, by Virginia Hunt Newman,
(San Diego, CA, New York, NY: Harcourt Brace
Jovanovich, 1983.) |
Water and Sexuality by Michel Odent (NY: Viking Penguin, Inc., 1990.) As well as discovering the practical advantages of 'underwater' births, Dr. Odent began to consider the meaning and importance of water as symbol. In this book he looks at what water has meant in the past, through myths and legends, and what it means for us now: from an advertiser's tool to a metaphor for the archetypal feminine or instinctual aspects of the psyche struggling to emerge as an antidote to our technological era. He looks at water and eroticism throughout history and around the world and a the 'aquatic ape' theory. In addition there is a practical section on the use of water during birth and in therapy, particularly sex therapy. |
Water Babies: A Book About Igor Tjarkovsky and His Method for Delivering and Training Children in Water by Erik Sidenbladh (NY: St. Martins Press, 1982.) One of the first waterbirth books on the market, Water Babies presented the most constuctive and exciting approaches to childbirth and child rearing during the years it was published. A personal account of Igor Tjarkovsky, the Soviet researcher, along with his innovative method of assisting the births and training children in water. Sensational photographs of swimming and diving babies, has aroused the interest of scientist with his theories about the significance for child development of life in water. |
Water Baby! A First Fun Book of Water Skills, by Lauren Heston, Photography by Zena Holloway (Element Books, Inc., MA, 1999.) It's fun and it's good for your baby! Discover and enjoy the benefits of introducing your child to water from the earliest age. The physical benefits of this water safety program include a stronger respiratory system and improved muscle development, strength, and stamina. Introducing babies to the water at a young age helps to stimulate their awareness, making them more confident and relaxed in everyday life. At the same time, learning water skills together will help you and your baby to develop your own special bond. Water Baby shows you how to introduce your baby to water, safely and confidently. This water safety program takes you through all the steps, from wetting baby's head in the bath and the first underwater swim to vital life-saving skills. As a parent, you will be secure in the knowledge that you are helping your baby to learn the water safety skills that he or she will need for life. |
Water Birth, The Concise Guide To Using Water During Pregnancy Birth and Infancy by Janet Balaskas & Yehudi Gordon (UK: Unwin Hyman Ltd., 1990.) This book is written for expectant parents and their birth attendants. It was one of the first books to give comprehensive and practical information on the use of water throughout pregnancy, birth and during infancy. Water Birth is straightforward and dtailed, yet reassuring and supportive. A companion volume to this book is, New Active Birth, it provides encouragement and all the necessary advice for parents contemplating a waterbirth and the midwives who will attend them in labor. |
Water Birth Unplugged: Proceedings of the First International Water Birth Conference by Beverley A. Lawrence Beech (UK: Books for Midwives Press, 1996.) This softcover book reports on the proceedings from the April 1995 conference featuring the third symposium to examine the methods and advantages of water births. The 23 presentations consider the experiences of doctors and midwives, including case records and data, detailing the physiology of water birth, family birthing, technology and childbirth, the roles of midwife and obstetrician in water birth, international reports from Australia, Denmark, and Italy, and topics in safety and public information. |
Waterbirth: A Midwive's Perspective by Susanna Napierala (CT: Bergin & Garvey, Connecticut, 1994.) As woman increasingly seek more humanistic birthing methods than the hospital-based delivery, certified midwife Susanna Napierala suggests that water birth offers mother and infant the ideal circumstances for beginning their lives together. Napierala, a midwife experienced at attending both home and water births, covers in some detail the origins of labor and delivery underwater, the benefits that submersion provides mother and infant, its advantages in comparison with other birthing options, and prenatal preparations for childbirth in general and water birth in particular. She also advises on such matters as construction and maintenance of a water tank, first- and second-stage labor in water--including complications and contraindications--and postpartum recovery. |
Waterbirth: An Attitude to Care by Dianne Garland (U.K.: Books For Midwives Press in collaboration with Royal College of Midwives and Haigh and Hochland Publications, Ltd., 2000.) The most updated concise clinical manual giving guidelines for the use of hydrotherapy in delivery, or waterbirth. Discusses clinical and organizational aspects. Includes British, U.S., and European perspectives. A must have for midwives, maternity nurses or any other caregiver in the birth community. |
Waterbirth Handbook: A Guide to the Gentle Art of Waterbirthing by Dr. Roger Lichy & Eileen Herzberg (UK: Gateway Books, 1993.) This
book covers authoritatively and comprehensively,
every aspect of water-birth including its
fascinating history, safety, choice of tubs
and how to book a waterbirth. It provides
answers to frequently asked questions as well
as provides vivid personal stories from many
women who have had waterbirths. It is peppered
with anecdotes from Dr. Roger Lichy's experiences
with water and birth. There is a fascinating
behind-the-scenes description of "Kary's
Birthday," the remarkable BBC documentary
program about Dr. Roger Lichy's work which
was seen by millions of television viewers
around the world. |
Water Labour Water Birth by Annie Sprague A Guide to the use of water during childbirth. This booklet is a summary of the author's research into deep-water immersion during childbirth and provides some guidelines to encourage its use so that midwifery practice is based on "best practice" care. |
Water Magic: Healing Bath Recipes for the Body, Spirit, and Soul by Mary Muryn (New York: Fireside Books, Simon & Schuster, 1995.) Based on principles of aromatherapy and homeopathic cures and comforts, these healing bath recipes are guaranteed to bring vitality and balance to the mind and body. Detailed instructions and advice on where and in what form to gather ingredients--including information on mail-order resources--make it easy for readers to whip up a little magic right in their own homes. The recipes in Water Magic are designed to take away everything from an aching heart to aching muscles. The combination of herbs and water can relieve the common cold and ease uncommon amounts of stress. Drawing on the unique properties of aromatherapy, herbology, and homeopathic cures. Mary Muryn explains how a careful blend of ingredients can turn a simple bath into a magical healing experience. |
We Are All Water Babies by Jessica Johnson and Michel Odent (CA: Celestial Arts, 1995.) Jessica Johnson and Michael Odent have created a fascinating exploration of our links with water from birth to death. Johnson has captured remarkable images of underwater births, pregnant women swimming with dolphins, and infants and babies swimming underwater--eyes open, breath held, delighted expressions on their faces. Odent's accompanying text is explanatory and he brings an interesting, off-beat approach to subjects such as birthing in a female environment, the role of water in sexuality, and whether or not humans were once sea mammals. Jessica Johnson's beautiful photographs, though, are what will bring you back to this book again and again. We Are All Water Babies is a wholly evocative and engaging book. |
By Limburg, Smulders, Kloosterman. This book is the first English Translation of Barren, an important book form Holland on natural birthing techniques. Powerful color photos throughout beautifully capture the drama of birth, focusing on on the ancient but little-known method of vertical delivery. Also discussed are conventional birthing techniques, parent/child bonding, prenatal care, water births, and compications during delivery. (January 1992) |