Natalie Engelhorn

The new edited 2022 version of this book very much follows the Doula alternative approach, not giving all too much practical advice and guidance on a natural birth process. It repeats very basic emotional patterns instead of providing actual useful approaches and techniques during labour. Also, as a woman giving birth to a child biologically, I want to be named woman, not birthing person. I find it very disrespectful towards women who naturally go through this evolutionary natural event called pregnancy and childbirth, we are not just any "birthing person"!

Can't say this book is much of a guide. No practical techniques or methods for childbirth found anywhere. There are a lot of birth stories from women, but most of them from tribal communities or older times. Also, it is quite one sided and follows the home birth narrative. Lots of scary stories from hospital interventions and emergencies, which are more scaring than helpful. I was hoping for some positive affirmations after reading this book, instead, I felt worried and anxious. For women who decide to even have a natural birth at hospital, this book is still terrifying. Cannot recommend unfortunately.