Supporting a Physiologic Approach to Pregnancy and Birth A Practical Guide [Paperback]

Supporting a Physiologic Approach to Pregnancy and Birth: A Practical Guide provides an overview of current evidence and a range of practical suggestions to promote physiologic birth within the United States healthcare system. Presenting the latest evidence available on practical approaches and minimal interventions, this book looks into clinic exam rooms and hospital labor units to investigate the possibilities for improving the pregnancy and labor experience. Contributors discuss recent research and other published information and present a range of ideas, tools, and solutions for maternity care clinicians, including midwives, nurses, physicians, and other members of the perinatal team.

An invaluable resource, Supporting a Physiologic Approach to Pregnancy and Birth is a must-have practical guide for those involved in all aspects of pregnancy and birth.

Contributors ix

Foreword by Holly Powell Kennedy xi

Acknowledgments xiii

Section 1 Understanding a physiologic approach 1

1 The case for a physiologic approach to birth: an overview 3
Melissa D. Avery

2 The physiology of pregnancy, labor, and birth 13
Cindy M. Anderson

3 A supportive approach to prenatal care 29
Carrie E. Neerland

4 Supporting a physiologic approach to labor and birth 49
Lisa Kane Low and Rebeca Barroso

Section 2 Interventions and approaches 77

5 Promoting comfort: a conceptual approach 79
Kerri D. Schuiling

6 Continuous labor support 91
Carrie E. Neerland

7 Techniques to promote relaxation in labor 105&llã!