Childbirth Without Fear

I’m reading a phenomenal book. I can’t put it down. It’s called “Childbirth Without Fear” and it’s by an English obstetrician, Grantly Dick-Read, M.D. A friend of mine was cleaning out her book shelf and gave me this wonderful gem. I’m so glad she did.

And no, I’m not pregnant.

I remember when my husband and I were taking a hypnobirthing class to prepare for Boo’s arrival one of the topics was the Fear-Tension-Pain cycle. I recall learning that this style of birth preparation originated with Grantly Dick-Read, M.D. And I’m sure that our instructor-doula encouraged us to read his book. I’m a little sad that I didn’t read it before I had Boo. I think I could have prepared a bit more during my pregnancy. I knew things like you can keep breastfeeding fine if you experience small side effects like sore nipples but I didn’t know what effects could be potentially harmful to me. I also didn’t have a plan for things like sleep routines and I just feel a bit more thought could have gone into it.

But, hindsight is 20/20 so I don’t like to dwell on the past. And I’m not sure that the book would have made my labor and delivery any different, because I really had no idea what to expect so I wasn’t scared the first time around, but it would have been nice to have someone as profound and intellectually in-touch with the needs of women as Dr Dick-Read in my imaginary suitcase of laboring tools. Childbirth can be very daunting, especially when it’s someones first time, so it’s really no surprise that mothers get anxious and feel like they need help. I’ve heard of many horror stories where things go wrong during childbirth and although there have been some great medical advancements in recent years, the fear of medical malpractice or even nature doing its own thing is a fear like none other. Although I have had my baby, I know there are some mums out there who worry, but you can learn more here about different malpractice laws if you just want to be in the know about what’s ok and what’s not ok during childbirth. However, it’s important to note that there are more women out there who have happy and healthy babies compared to those who suffer during childbirth. Yes, it can be daunting, but it’s also an incredibly joyous time and that should not be overshadowed by fear.

To be honest, I’ve only read the preface and nearing the end of the second chapter of “Childbirth Without Fear.” It was first published in 1942 and the writing style was hard to accept and appreciate at first. Now that I’ve started really reading it and appreciating it for what it is, I’ve come to realize this book is powerful. The words and themes and Dick-Read’s general observations of humanity, politics and politicians, and the science of money and power in society, are very profound.

Throughout the first 20 pages or so, Dick-Read makes it clear that women are a crucial, central part of the health, well-being and progress of any human society. Be it in religion, politics or in the home, women are a core piece of the human puzzle.

I can’t wait to read more of this book. Even if I never get pregnant again, I am moved and in complete awe of this gentleman’s view of women in society. He reveres us with the highest of standards and regard. This man was widely criticized and all but ostracized from his practice of obstetrics. But he knew there was a better way to do things. He knew that women should not, and would not, have to be scared of childbirth. He knew our bodies are meant to be strong, resilient and capable of what Mother Nature intended them to do.

If you’re one of my many pregnant friends or family, I challenge you to read this book and absorb Dr. Dick-Read’s philosophy. And if you’re not expecting, or perhaps are an older member of the family of an expecting mom, I also encourage you to read this book. If you are a woman, you will be amazed at how important and strong you feel after the first two chapters. If you are a man, you will see your mother, sister, daughter, aunt and wife in a brighter light.

Do your part. Break the cycle.