Gentle Birth Companions by Adela Stockton

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Category Book Reviews

Price £9.99

Website www.adelastockton.co.uk

By Sarah Buchanan

Gentle Birth Companions is the second of two books by Adela on the subject of doulas. Her first book, 'Birth Space, Safe Place', was published in 2009.

Part One

More than just a description of what a doula is, part one explores the historical origins of the doula, the doula's role in the 21st Century, the UK 'brand' of doulas and interestingly the international doula community. This chapter intelligently explores in essence what the doula is and what her role is, from a historical, cultural and contemporary perspective. Any reader whether they have an understanding of midwifery or not, would find this part refreshingly educational rather than purely descriptive. Where appropriate, Adela, has referenced the text so the reader can be confident that the many facts about the benefits of doulas are supported by evidence based research.

Part Two

The focus of this part seems to explore the relationship of a doula with the expecting mother and the medical establishment. Adela does not shy away from thought provoking questions. It's clear from research that doulas add to the woman's well being and enjoyment of giving birth and so, it appears that doulas are finding a defined place in the birthing room to bridge the gap between busy midwives and the mother. This section also includes practical information such as the different roles of an ante and postnatal doula and what a doula may charge.

Part Three

To reinforce the previous chapters, part three is a series of birth accounts. This gives the content of the book a fair balance of being research and evidence based but also friendly and accessible, making this a worthwhile read for professionals and expecting mothers alike.

People reading this book will find themselves informed about a doula's role and importantly what her boundaries are. The book stresses that a doula does not replace or override the midwife's role but is present at a birth as part of the team bringing with her a calm confidence to provide constant support and assurance, qualities that are most compatible and essential to the birthing environment.

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