The Politics of Birth explores ways in which we learn about birth, how we talk and feel about it, assumptions that professional caregivers may make, and the roles and skills of midwives. Topics include home birth and water birth; the use of drugs in childbirth; obstetric and nursing interventions which are often used routinely; Caesarean sections; pressures that care-givers are under, and the choices presented to women that are more apparent than real. Throughout, the author draws on research-based evidence to present both an holistic yet grounded examination of topical issues surrounding pregnancy and childbirth. This is not a "how to" book. The aim of The Politics of Birth is to help the reader develop deeper insight and understanding of how a technocratic birth culture shapes our ideas about birth and obstetric practice.

Examines the social context of childbirth and midwifery in European and American birth cultures, the challenges facing caregivers and childbearing women and an evaluation of practices and belief systems. Aims to facilitate constructive dialogue between healthcare professionals and women having babies. Helps develop deeper insight and understanding of how a technocratic birth culture shapes our ideas about birth and obstetric practice. An accessible yet reader-friendly text that draws on research-based evidence in a thoughtful and analytical manner to present both an holistic yet grounded examination of topical issues surrounding pregnancy and childbirth.