Birthing positions : what do women want? do midwives know best! / Regina Copen

includes bibliographical references and index

"For centuries, women have been delivering in the upright position. Yet, in present day practice, the majority of women still deliver 'flat' on the bed in recumbent, lateral and semi-recumbent positions. Why?" "In this wide-ranging and challenging book, Dr. Regina Coppen, herself an experienced midwife, argues that many women are simply not aware of the different birthing positions available to them - and that many midwives are not always prepared to deliver women in their birthing positions of choice." "With the help of extensive illustrations, and drawing on scientific, anthropological and scientific sources, Dr. Coppen undertakes a clear-eyed examination of the evidence for and against different birthing positions." "In the second half of the book, the author presents the findings of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of women's decision-making and choice of birthing positions, as well as midwives' views on birthing positions and the extent to which they influence women."--Jacket