In "The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth," Henci Goer challenges the status quo of labor and delivery, empowering mothers to make informed choices. With a blend of scientific research and personal anecdotes, Goer unveils the hidden truths behind medical practices in childbirth. She demystifies common myths, discussing the benefits of various options—from midwives to pain relief methods. This insightful guide not only advocates for evidence-based care but also encourages self-advocacy during pregnancy and birth. Are you ready to take control of your birthing experience and unlock the secrets to a more fulfilling journey into motherhood?
By Henci Goer
Published: 1999
"Your body is not a lemon."
As an intelligent woman, you are probably used to learning as much as you can before making major decisions. But when it comes to one of the most important decisions of your life--how you will give birth—it is hard to gather accurate, unbiased information. Surprisingly, much of the research does not support common medical opinion and practice. Birth activist Henci Goer gives clear, concise information based on the latest medical studies. The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth helps you compare and contrast your various options and shows you how to avoid unnecessary procedures, drugs, restrictions, and tests. The book covers: Cesareans Breech babies Inducing labor Electronic Fetal Monitoring Rupturing Membranes Coping with slow labor Pain medication Epistiotomy Vaginal birth after a Ceasarean Doulas Deciding on a doctor or midwife Choosing where to have your baby and much more . . .
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Henci Goer is a renowned author and childbirth educator known for her incisive analysis of maternity care practices. With a background in psychology and extensive research, she has dedicated her career to advocating for evidence-based practices in childbirth. Goer is best recognized for her influential book, "The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth," which empowers expectant mothers to make informed decisions during pregnancy and labor. Through her writings and workshops, she aims to increase awareness of the importance of informed consent and the impact of medical interventions on women's birthing experiences. Henci's work continues to inspire a movement towards more compassionate and respectful maternity care.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Emily Oster is an economist and professor at Brown University, known for her data-driven approach to parenting. She is the author of popular books like Expecting Better and Cribsheet, where she uses economics to debunk common parenting myths and offer evidence-based advice. Emily’s research empowers parents to make informed decisions based on data rather than societal pressure. Her approachable style has made her a favorite among modern parents seeking clarity in an overwhelming information landscape. She continues to challenge conventional wisdom with a focus on making parenting less stressful.
View CollectionJames Fadiman is a prominent American psychologist and writer, renowned for his pioneering research in psychedelic studies. He co-founded the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology, now known as Sofia University, which has been instrumental in integrating spiritual practices with academic psychology. Fadiman's influential book, "The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide," provides comprehensive insights into safe and effective use of psychedelics for personal and therapeutic growth. His extensive work on microdosing has garnered significant attention, contributing to the resurgence of interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. As an advocate for responsible psychedelic use, Fadiman continues to be a leading voice in the field, shaping contemporary conversations around mental health and consciousness.
View CollectionEmilia Clarke is a British actress best known for her iconic role as Daenerys Targaryen in the critically acclaimed television series "Game of Thrones," which earned her multiple award nominations. Although her primary fame stems from her acting career, Clarke has also ventured into literature. She co-authored the comic book series "M.O.M.: Mother of Madness," which showcases her creative versatility. Clarke's work in both acting and writing highlights her dedication to storytelling in various forms. Additionally, she is an advocate for several charitable causes, including her own foundation, SameYou, which supports brain injury recovery.
View CollectionNaval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
View CollectionOprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
View CollectionGary Vaynerchuk, also known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and social media personality. He initially gained prominence through his family’s wine business, turning it into a digital juggernaut with his online content and wine reviews. Gary is now the CEO of VaynerMedia, a full-service digital agency, and has authored multiple bestsellers, including Crush It! and Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook. He is known for his blunt, motivational style and advice on business, marketing, and personal branding. Gary continues to inspire millions with his focus on hustle, entrepreneurship, and leveraging digital platforms for success.
View CollectionJon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
View CollectionJane McGonigal is a renowned game designer and author, celebrated for her pioneering work in the field of alternate reality games and their positive impact on mental health. She holds a Ph.D. in Performance Studies from the University of California, Berkeley. McGonigal's influential book, "Reality is Broken: Why Games Make Us Better and How They Can Change the World," explores how game design principles can solve real-world problems. Her subsequent book, "SuperBetter," offers strategies for harnessing the power of games to overcome personal challenges. As a speaker and advocate, McGonigal continues to inspire innovation in how we perceive and utilize gaming in everyday life.
View CollectionDr. Harvey Karp is a renowned pediatrician and child development expert, best known for his groundbreaking method for calming infants, as detailed in The Happiest Baby on the Block. He is the creator of the SNOO Smart Sleeper, a robotic crib designed to help babies sleep safely and soundly. Dr. Karp has been a leading voice in pediatric health for decades, emphasizing the importance of sleep for both babies and parents. His methods have revolutionized infant care and parenting techniques. He continues to advocate for improved early childhood development practices.
View CollectionSarah Jessica Parker is an award-winning actress, producer, and entrepreneur, best known for her role as Carrie Bradshaw in the iconic TV series Sex and the City. Her portrayal earned her widespread acclaim and established her as a fashion icon. In addition to acting, she has her own shoe line, SJP Collection, and has produced and starred in HBO’s Divorce. Sarah Jessica is also active in philanthropy, supporting various causes, including arts and education. Her influence spans both entertainment and fashion industries.
View CollectionBernie Sanders is an American politician and U.S. Senator from Vermont, known for his progressive policies and his advocacy for economic equality. Sanders ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020, inspiring a movement with his calls for Medicare for All, free college tuition, and a $15 minimum wage. He identifies as a democratic socialist and has been a long-standing advocate for labor rights, environmental justice, and social welfare programs. Sanders’ candidacy energized a new generation of activists and has had a lasting influence on the direction of the Democratic Party. His focus on income inequality and social justice continues to shape political discourse in the U.S.
View CollectionSarah Ockwell-Smith is a parenting expert and author specializing in gentle parenting, with books like The Gentle Sleep Book and The Gentle Parenting Book. Her approach emphasizes empathy, connection, and respect in parenting, advocating for a more nurturing style rather than traditional discipline methods. Ockwell-Smith has a background in psychology and child development and is known for her evidence-based, compassionate advice to parents. Her work has helped shape the growing movement toward more mindful and gentle parenting techniques. Sarah continues to be a trusted resource for parents seeking to raise emotionally secure children.
View CollectionArianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View CollectionAdam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection“Your body is not a lemon.”
The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth
By Henci Goer
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.