Learn how to have an empowered, more joyful birth with this concise guide from Mayo Clinic, named the #1 hospital in the world by Newsweek. Giving birth can be - and should be - an exciting, positive experience. While every labor and delivery has unique challenges, you can help to make it the best possible experience through a combination of comfort techniques, education and an understanding of options. This concise guide to pregnancy and childbirth brings you the expertise of a certified nurse-midwife at Mayo Clinic and a certified doula. It's packed with information based on the most current evidence, yet rooted in long-trusted natural methods of caring for laboring women. With a unique spiral-bound flipbook format, the book's 100+ bite-sized topics can be perused one page at a time while lying in bed, eating breakfast or riding a stationary bike. The front pages offer the most important information for setting up a satisfying childbirth experience, while the back pages add more empowering details, tricks and medical information. Inside you'll find tips for: • Creating healthy habits during pregnancy • Recognizing what's normal as baby grows • Planning and preparing for the birth - mentally and practically • Managing labor pain, including natural techniques and medical options • Providing crucial support as a labor partner • Keeping focused on the ultimate goal: a healthy mom and baby You'll also get the messy truth of what to expect postpartum, advice for enjoying the early days with a newborn and more. Obstetricks equips parents with confidence and an expert toolkit as they prepare for the main event - welcoming baby to the world.