2011 - Talk Birth

gain in the front of the body can change the center of gravity placing more stress on joints, the spine and
muscles. Massage can offer relief from muscle pain and joint stiffness on into the third trimester as the baby
grows and changes the body even more. At this time it would be beneficial to receive a massage every week.
Receiving massage during pregnancy is an excellent way to care for both Mom & baby. It should be part of
every pregnant woman’s self-care plan.
Q: What are some of the cautions about receiving massage during pregnancy?
A: Prenatal massage is effective and safe for women with uncomplicated, low risk pregnancies. High risk
pregnancies with certain medical conditions should get consent from their doctor before receiving massage.
Massage should be avoided during the first trimester and there are regions of the body and specific therapeutic
techniques that are contraindicated for prenatal massage. A professional massage therapist trained
in prenatal massage will know what precautions need to be taken.
1. http://www.handandstone.com/
2. http://www.facebook.com/PortraitsAndPaws
Book Review: Homebirth in the Hospital (2011-08-31 08:43)
Homebirth in the Hospital [1]
by Stacey Marie Kerr, MD
Sentient Publications, 2008
Softcover, 212 pages
ISBN: 978-1-59181-077-3
[2]www.homebirthinthehospital.com
Reviewed by Molly Remer, MSW, ICCE, [3]http://talkbirth.wordpress.com
I would venture to say that most midwifery activists and birth professionals have said at some point, “what
she wants is a homebirth in the hospital…” This comment is accompanied with a knowing look, a bit of head
shaking, and an unspoken continuation of the thought, “…and we all know that’s not going to happen.”
Well, what if it is possible? A new book by Dr. Stacey Kerr, Homebirth in the Hospital, asserts that
it is. She was originally trained at The Farm in TN (home of legendary midwife Ina May Gaskin) and after
going to medical school realized that she, “…needed to balance my new knowledge with my old priorities. I
missed the feeling of normal birth, the trust that the birthing process would occur without technology, and
the time-tested techniques that help women birth naturally. And so it was that I went back to midwives to
find the balance.”
If you are a dedicated homebirth advocate, I recommend reading Homebirth in the Hospital with an open
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