A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth: Simple Steps YOU Can Take to Help Your Baby Arrive Safely

by Gina Mundy

This book is NOT your typical pregnancy book…

A Parent’s Guide to Safer Childbirth is the world’s first book that empowers YOU to work with your delivery team to protect both you and your newborn during labor. After reading this book, you will be able to handle various situations that may arise during labor so you and your delivery team can give your newborn the best chance at a healthy arrival.

Get ready to And much more!

With this book, preparing for childbirth has never been more simple.

Your doctor is not the only one who can help your baby arrive safely. Now you too can help ensure both you and baby experience a safer, healthier, and less complicated childbirth.

Learn more at

Gina Mundy is a childbirth attorney and mother of three. After spending over twenty years analyzing the decisions made during childbirth, it is now her mission to share this information so that families around the world can experience a safer childbirth.

Throughout her career Gina has traveled nationwide, engaging with healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and midwives to explore all aspects of labor and delivery. These interactions have provided her with invaluable insights, enabling her to appreciate the diverse perspectives prevalent in different regions of the country. Meeting with experts from various states, she has explored and analyzed the myriad of issues that can arise during labor and delivery, impacting both mother and baby.

Gina has conducted extensive research, meticulously analyzing, and dissecting countless studies pertaining to childbirth. This rigorous process was essential in equipping her with the necessary knowledge to undertake lengthy cross-examinations of a diverse array of experts. Through these examinations, she skillfully discerns their opinions on the errors that have occurred during labor and delivery. This has sharpened her knowledge allowing her to become highly proficient in the nuances of childbirth.

In her capacity as legal counsel, Gina has closely worked with delivery teams whose care has been questioned following adverse outcomes. She has spent thousands of hours meticulously scrutinizing cases, conducting interviews with delivery teams, and thoroughly examining medical records to gain an in-depth understanding of every decision made during labor and delivery.

Gina believes that while we cannot change the past, we can certainly learn from it and take measures to prevent similar mistakes from occurring in the future.

She currently lives in Michigan, United States of America.

270 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 26, 2023

About the author

Throughout her career Gina has traveled nationwide, engaging with healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and midwives to explore all aspects of labor and delivery. These interactions have provided her with invaluable insights, enabling her to appreciate the diverse perspectives prevalent in different regions of the country. Collaborating with experts from various states, she has explored and analyzed the myriad of issues that can arise during labor and delivery, impacting both mother and baby.

Gina has conducted extensive research, meticulously analyzing, and dissecting countless studies pertaining to childbirth. This rigorous process was essential in equipping her with the necessary knowledge to undertake lengthy cross-examinations of a diverse array of experts. Through these examinations, she skillfully discerns their opinions on the errors that have occurred during labor and delivery. This has sharpened her knowledge allowing her to become highly proficient in the nuances of childbirth.

In her capacity as legal counsel, Gina has closely worked with delivery teams whose care has been questioned following adverse outcomes. She has spent thousands of hours meticulously scrutinizing cases, conducting interviews with delivery teams, and thoroughly examining medical records to gain an in-depth understanding of every decision made during labor and delivery.

Reviews

[Laura Lukasavage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very insightful book

The author touches on a lot of main points in this book and they are very insightful and helpful honestly, I wish I had read this book before ever having my children but it's helped me to learn for the future if I choose to have another child, and it will be something I can share with others and my daughter one day.

The author touches base on her own family experiences with the complications that took place during a birth, but she also touches base on all the important pieces of the puzzle when it comes to everything from picking your hospital, and your doctors and knowing the difference between your child's heart rate so you can monitor it while being in labor, the effects of Pitocin and what to expect from it as well as an epidural.

The author touches base on everything from point A to point Z on the process and really brakes each piece down for you on what to do, what to expect and how things work on all levels.

If you are expecting, know someone expecting or thinking of having a child EVER, I really suggest you give this book a good read and take notes as I feel if I had known some of these things maybe I wouldn't have had to be induced for my deliveries or maybe I would have suggested different things.

[Michael Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

A decision-maker’s guide to childbirth

This book was written by a lawyer with two decades of labor/delivery lawsuits. Through its fifteen chapters, Gina Mundy provides examples of what can go wrong during labor and delivery to make an birthing plan. She noted that ignorance of complications might seem blissful but nervousness can keep one “focused and alert”. Expectant parents need information about the medical process itself to make informed decisions regarding labor and delivery care. Remember this is not medical advice from a medical professional but an attorney’s experience analyzing medical mistakes in what she labeled “baby cases” learned through taking depositions after an undesired outcome. As the author repeated throughout her book “knowledge is power”. However, some of the information about inducing childbirth, cesarians, epidurals, Pitoncin dangers, and complications that arise maybe too much for new parents who are already overwhelmed by this life experience. The big take away is to closely monitor the baby’s heartbeat. As with all medical issues, different doctors have different opinions which can influence an expectant parents medical choices. Trust in one’s birthing team is critically important. In birth and delivery there are two patients: the mother and the baby. As the old saying goes “prepare for the worse but hope for the best” outcome.

[Felicia Job · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was helpful for me. But I would say if you are anxious or stressed about giving birth this might make it worse. It’s very important info though, so maybe have your partner or support person read it instead.

[Dr Lawrence James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Expert knowledge

This book is super empowering. The author knows what she is talking about. Gives you all the tips you need for a safe and happy delivery. Helps you to have all the knowledge before delivery and know what's happening inside the delivery room and how hospitals work. Excellent book for pregnant women.

[Frank Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth: Expecting the Best" by Gina Mundy is an indispensable resource for expectant parents. This book is nothing short of a lifesaver, offering a wealth of knowledge and empowering parents to navigate the journey of childbirth with confidence and informed decisions.

From the very first page, Gina Mundy's dedication to the well-being of both mothers and babies is palpable. The book is thoughtfully structured, providing a comprehensive understanding of the childbirth process. Mundy's extensive research and expertise shine through, making this guide a trustworthy and invaluable companion for expectant parents.

One of the most outstanding features of this book is its emphasis on informed decision-making. Mundy equips parents with the knowledge they need to advocate for themselves and make choices that align with their preferences and values. Her approach fosters a sense of empowerment and control during what can be an overwhelming time.

The author's writing style is clear, compassionate, and reassuring. Mundy understands the anxieties and questions that expectant parents may have, and she addresses them with empathy and clarity. Her explanations of medical procedures, interventions, and options are easily digestible, ensuring that parents can make informed choices with confidence.

Moreover, "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" delves into the importance of communication with healthcare providers. Mundy emphasizes the significance of open and respectful dialogue between parents and medical professionals, fostering a collaborative and supportive birthing experience.

The book also covers essential topics related to childbirth, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, pain management, and postpartum care. Mundy's holistic approach ensures that parents are well-prepared for every aspect of their childbirth journey.

In addition to its wealth of information, the book offers practical tools, including checklists and questions to ask healthcare providers, making it easy for parents to stay organized and engaged in their prenatal care.

In conclusion, "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth: Expecting the Best" is a must-have for expectant parents. Gina Mundy's dedication to empowering parents with knowledge, fostering informed decision-making, and promoting respectful communication with healthcare providers makes this book an invaluable resource. It's a lifesaver that equips parents with the tools they need to have a safe and positive childbirth experience. Expectant parents, this book is your trusted guide to welcoming your baby into the world with confidence and informed choices.

[Avid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have borrowed this book thanks to my Kindle Unlimited subscription and read it on the Kindle app of my tablet. A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth: Expecting the Best: Using the Power of Knowledge to Help You Deliver a Healthy Baby by Gina Mundy offers a great deal of insight into all matters pertaining to welcoming your baby into the world.
I was impressed by the complexity of the discussion on issues a parent should take into account and have knowledge of, from pitocin-induced labour with issues arising from the use of pitocin, to how to choose a doctor, hospital, delivery team, and even a suitable baby advocate considering the critical nature of the experience as a mother; having a labour and delivery plan.
I was especially impressed by the attention to detail and look into the explanations around baby monitors, how to read the baby’s heart rate so that at all times you are aware of the condition of your baby, as well as all the medical procedures that go or could go into your delivery (pre and post childbirth).
And the accounts of the author that shares the delivery experience from the perspective of a baby lawyer draw even more attention to how much importance a future parent should give to the preparation process. I would recommend this book to anyone preparing to become a parent.

[Jennell Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Informative!

I just had my baby in December, and I wish I had known all the information in this book. This book is an invaluable resource for expecting parents navigating the complexities of labor and delivery. It offers a comprehensive roadmap to help ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby.

It covers essential topics such as the foundation of labor and delivery, selecting the right medical team, and understanding interventions like epidurals and C-sections. Each chapter is rich with practical advice, empowering parents to make informed decisions and advocate for their baby's well-being.

Overall,  this book is a must-read for any parent-to-be, offering reassurance, guidance, and the tools needed to navigate the journey of childbirth with confidence and peace of mind.

[D. Bui · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth: Expecting the Best" by Gina Mundy is an essential resource for expectant parents, providing invaluable knowledge and empowering guidance for the journey of childbirth. Mundy's dedication to the well-being of mothers and babies shines through from the very first page. With a comprehensive understanding of the childbirth process, this thoughtfully structured guide instills confidence and equips parents with informed decision-making skills.

Mundy's emphasis on advocating for oneself and aligning choices with personal preferences and values sets this book apart. Her compassionate and reassuring writing style addresses the anxieties and questions expectant parents may have, explaining medical procedures, interventions, and options with clarity. The importance of open communication with healthcare providers is emphasized, fostering a collaborative and supportive birthing experience.

Covering prenatal care, labor and delivery, pain management, and postpartum care, "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" ensures parents are well-prepared for every aspect. Practical tools such as checklists and questions to ask healthcare providers make it easy to stay organized and engaged in prenatal care.

In the end, this must-have guide empowers expectant parents with knowledge, fosters informed decision-making, and promotes respectful communication with healthcare providers. It equips parents with the tools needed for a safe and positive childbirth experience. With "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth," expectant parents can confidently welcome their baby into the world, making informed choices every step of the way.

[Carmel Audsley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author is an attorney/solicitor and mother of three, whose career has been focussed on analysing mistakes made during labour and delivery which have resulted in law suits. Pregnancy and childbirth, especially for first-time parents, can be an anxious time. You want everything to be ‘perfect’, with a birth plan and music, but babies are unpredictable and with all the planning in the world, the birth rarely turns out exactly the way you had envisaged. While experiencing one of the most physically and emotionally heightened times of your life, you want to rely on the advice given, especially when you are not really sure what lies ahead. The aim of this book is for expectant parents to be in charge and make informed decisions about the care of mother and baby. It must be remembered that this is written from a legal perspective, from an author who has been involved in claiming damages from hospital and medical professionals when things have gone wrong. The case analyses are informative, but it shouldn’t frighten mums-to-be. Medical professionals should be relied upon to make the best decisions on behalf of mother and baby, however it is a reminder that parents have the right to speak up if they don’t feel any suggested intervention is right for them. The author is advising women to make it clear to medical staff that you do not feel comfortable with suggested treatment and care, and ask for clarification if you don’t understand a procedure. It’s a reminder of the highly litigious world in which we live, and the power of the individual to be involved in her own treatment and care.

[A T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting and insightful book from a different perspective

Although I myself have not had children of my own, I think that this book was worth reading. I have family and friends who have children, or planning to have children of their own in the future, and I think there are some good takeaways from this book, especially for first time parent.

It was interesting to read this book authored from the perspective of a legal counsel. There are some helpful ideas to take note of, in order to help make the delivery of the baby the best experience there is. Take note that this book is more directed for mothers who are planning to birth in the hospital delivery room/operating room, and not for those who are looking into home birth. Communicating well with your delivery team is one of the things that the author highlights as important. The author talked about the different delivery methods, choosing the right doctor and hospital, setting a labor and delivery plan, and a lot more.

Overall, the information is definitely helpful with insights of a different perspective from other birthing books out there.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative, well-researched, practical, and empowering.


"A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" is a must-read for expecting parents seeking a practical approach to ensure a safe and healthy delivery. The book seamlessly integrates medical and legal perspectives. Without using complex jargon, it empowers parents to actively participate in decisions surrounding childbirth.
It covers pretty much everything, including common childbirth challenges, essential labor and delivery terms, and tips for selecting the right medical team and hospital. It offers straightforward advice on creating a birth plan for the well-being of both mother and baby. What sets this book apart is its unique blend of legal insights and medical knowledge, providing a comprehensive understanding of the birthing process.
The author's extensive experience in childbirth law, backed by meticulous research and engagement with healthcare professionals, makes this guide priceless. Whether explaining the nuances of medical records or offering practical tips for communication with the delivery team, the author equips parents to navigate various situations during labor safely and effectively.

[Vita Nourish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Empowering and Informative Guide for Expecting Parents

What sets this book apart is its focus on empowering parents to take an active role in ensuring a safe and healthy childbirth. It goes beyond the typical pregnancy guides and dives deep into the decisions surrounding childbirth, helping you navigate the complexities of the process.
One aspect I found particularly useful was the breakdown of common problems that can occur during childbirth and how you, as a parent, can help prevent them. Gina also provides essential labor and delivery terminology that equips you to communicate effectively with your medical team.
The book doesn't stop at just educating you; it also offers practical advice on selecting the right doctor and hospital, creating a birth plan, and handling various scenarios that may arise during labor. It's like having a knowledgeable friend by your side throughout your pregnancy journey.

[A.S. Norris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative book; good resource for new parents

Found the information in this book very useful as a parent of a little daughter hoping God will bless us again. The perspective from that of the hospitals help put into perspective that most OB/GYNs are good people that do try to look out for what's best for the mother and baby. I appreciate that the author puts the onus on the parent(s) to research the various interventions and delivery methods associated prior to the birth. One topic I wish was in here (but I understand if the author has no knowledge of these) is how a natural birth center would differ in services/interventions offered and what legal issues can arise by using them. Still, I would recommend this book for any expecting parents as a good resource to help them know what to expect and plan for the coming bundle of joy God blessed them with.

[R. Hollis · Rating 5 out of 5]

So important

The book begins with the story of a young woman (the author's niece) in a difficult labor. I admit to having fingers crossed to find out if the baby was okay. After that, the manual is filled with instructions such as what to include in a labor and delivery plan and terms you might hear during labor. It's all done in a friendly manner, like your mom friend helping guide you through, except it was written by a baby advocate with the job description to help the legal aspects. Wish I had found this for my own difficult first birth.

[Sharon Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valuable information

Gina Mundy's book is a poignant reminder of the profound importance of every decision during childbirth. Drawing from her vast legal expertise and heartfelt interactions with medical professionals, Mundy offers expectant mothers an empowering roadmap to navigate the complexities of labor. An essential read for any parent-to-be, this book illuminates the intricacies of childbirth and champions the power of informed choices.

[Venus · Rating 5 out of 5]

so needed

Why, oh why, didn’t this book exist when I gave birth to my first child completely naturally!? I have read a lot of books about this, and this one I’m going to venture to say is actually the best. I couldn’t be happier with the amount of information and the guides to safety as well as even the intellectual and emotional impact that this type of thing has on women. Everyone should read this whether they are a parent or not.

[Infinite Creations, · Rating 5 out of 5]

More confident and prepared!

The step-by-step 13 Lesson plan is extremely informative and supportive. I feel much more prepared and ready if I am asked if I want Pitocin to induce my labor or if I want an epidural. I also got a Baby Advocate so I could rest a bit more with ease that someone is taking care of the baby as well as a Midwife to take care of me (and the baby if necessary). Feeling all in all more confident and prepared!

[Mackenzie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting Read

This is a great book for people to understand labor and all the things that go with it. Most importantly, choosing the right provider. As a midwife I was a bit shocked by some of the stories in this book, as it is our jobs to know what we are using and doing. This book demonstrates most things that may be used or can happen in the delivery suite. Ultimately, shared decision making is important in the delivery room. Knowledge is power!

[T. C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone Should Read This!

I wish I would have had this book 16 years ago!
This is so informative. I feel like this should be taught to everyone - even if you aren't planning to have a baby, you probably know someone who will and you could help advocate for that person.
So many things I didn't know!

[Brett Comeau · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you expecting? This book is a must read

My wife is expecting soon and I felt like a spectator, I didn’t know what she was going through and I wouldn’t do anything to help. This book gave me a view into an amazing world. I highly recommend it.

[Jeffery Roberson]

Great tool

This book highlights potential hazards and provide helpful advice , which enable you to approach delivery with more awareness. This enlightening book prepares parents for childbirth.

[Alison Gatons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting and informative. As an expecting mother this helped guide some additional research and make an informed birth plan. I’ll likely reread it closer to my due date to make sure the information is fresh to help me make informed decisions when it comes time for my labor and delivery.

[Elrica Francisca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid advice

This book is very reader friendly and gives good advise on safer childbirth and making better decisions that might prevent some unforseen complications.

[Victoria Turone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book for new mum!

I brought this for a friend who is expecting and she found it really helpful and she was able to write down questions for her midwife! Very informative.

[Kristi Shimada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth: Expecting the Best by Gina Munday is thought provoking, informative, resourceful, and a must read. I recommend this book!

[Erin Hayden · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some good information shared, but concerns about lack of balance in advice

Overall, I think this author shares helpful insights from a perspective that many pregnant women don’t typically have access to. She shares some helpful tips that I think are worth considering, especially for women who choose to use an OB instead of a midwife. Unfortunately, some of the suggestions might be out of reach for many mothers. For example, there are many places around the country where choosing the care provider and/or hospital just isn’t an option (unless the mother is willing/able to move for the weeks leading up to delivery).
Another concern I have is about the characterizations about certain types of interventions. For example, the author refers to internal monitoring as “the gold standard” of fetal monitoring. While it’s true that internal monitoring is more accurate than other types of monitoring, it is absolutely NOT the gold standard in all situations. For a labor that is progressing normally, rupturing membranes to insert an internal monitor simply to have a more accurate accounting of fetal heart tones can actually be counter productive. The author does point out that this type of monitoring is “more invasive”, but that does not paint a full picture of the risks posed by rupturing membranes artificially (if not already ruptured), introducing external devices into the uterus, and restricting movement of the mother, etc. Each of these factors poses a potential risk to the mother and should be considered. Suggesting that internal monitoring will provide better data, should a lawsuit emerge, is a terrible reason for choosing internal monitoring. I also worry about the information shared about when it is advisable to rupture membranes. The author states that rupturing membranes in conjunction with pitocin can shorten labor, but again, this does not paint a full and accurate picture. The amniotic sac is a cushion for the baby. When a mother is put on pitocin, contractions become stronger and closer together. Many babies who can tolerate the increase in frequency and intensity of contractions with membranes intact, quickly go into distress once membranes are ruptured. If the author wants to give advice on when it is reasonable to have the doctor rupture membranes, she should be clear about the added stress to baby—especially during an induced labor.
I also think this book could benefit from a little bit of editorial polishing. I got lost a few times because of awkward sentence structure and had to reread certain sections to figure out some of the relationships being referenced. All of this said, I do still think there is value to having a book like this available to expectant mothers. I would just like to see a more balanced approach to sharing the information (most expectant mothers are not high risk, so information should be presented in a way the prioritizes limiting interventions altogether).

[H.T. Schwartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book out of curiosity as my wife is an L&D nurse at a large public hospital. Often, I listen to her work stories with limited information regarding the terms she uses. With this book, I am now far more aware of the issues and concepts she shares with me most evenings or mornings when she returns.

This book offers in-depth information regarding all the primary problems in L&D settings. Crucially, it does so in a manner that does not ring with fear that many new parents face. Gina offers the facts from her experienced perspective. Key topics include the use of Pitocin, C-sections, and things to request or look out for.

The book is written primarily for expectant mothers but is also a must-read for fathers. Our first delivery was complicated, and it would have been nice if I had been armed with this information during that event. As an L&D nurse, my wife often feels fathers meander cluelessly during labor. Realistically, the dad is the primary advocate for the mother and baby, particularly if the mother cannot make decisions, and this book offers an excellent toolkit for that.

Further, my wife often discusses most of the issues addressed in the book. How many times have I heard her complain about doctors racing to issue pitocin when that may not be wise? Many! She has seen nurses and doctors make occasional mistakes, some rare instances with significant consequences. In large hospitals, residents often are given too many patients and are greatly overworked. With rotating shifts, nurses and residents are often tired, opening the door to accidents. She works in a hospital with many high-risk patients who lack birthing education. This book would be an aid to them, as in her experience, doctors and nurses will treat educated patients more amicably. Still, parents should keep in mind that the vast majority of high-risk births are successful and do not result in cases such as those mentioned in this book.

The book does not discuss doulas much. I know my wife often sees an extensive range of doulas, some of whom are very helpful and others that she feels can be barriers to a safe birth. Some readers may want to know how to select an adequately experienced and trained doula. Today, there is a great deal of distrust between doctors and patients; some concerns are warranted, and others are probably not. The best antidote to that is education, and this book is precisely that.

[Julius Codrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth," Gina Mundy delivers a profoundly insightful and empathetic resource that every expectant parent should have on their journey toward childbirth. From the first page, Mundy captures readers with her human approach, blending medical expertise with deep emotional understanding. She acknowledges the anxieties and fears many parents feel and offers a guide that is not only informative but also deeply reassuring. Her words are like a comforting hand, guiding parents through what can often feel like an overwhelming process.

Mundy’s tone is one of empathy and support, never pushing an agenda but rather helping parents make informed decisions about their birthing experience. She writes with the heart of someone who understands that childbirth is both a deeply personal and life-altering experience. Her ability to break down complex medical concepts into relatable, easy-to-understand language makes this guide accessible to parents from all backgrounds, whether this is their first child or they’ve been through the experience before.

What truly stands out in this book is the depth of practical advice Mundy offers, while also providing space for the emotional and psychological aspects of childbirth. Her wisdom goes beyond the physical act of giving birth—she gently nudges parents to think about their emotional well-being, the kind of support they’ll need, and how to advocate for themselves and their babies. This balance between practicality and compassion makes the book feel like a conversation with a trusted friend, who is also a childbirth expert.

The heart of "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" lies in its holistic approach. Mundy focuses on both the safety and emotional journey of childbirth, helping parents prepare for every scenario with confidence. Without giving away any spoilers, it’s clear that her thoughtful, well-researched advice will leave parents feeling empowered and ready for the challenges ahead. Her emphasis on the safety and health of both mother and baby is woven throughout the book in such a natural and encouraging way.

This guide deserves a 5 out of 5 stars for its compassionate, empowering approach. Mundy’s work is a beacon of knowledge and care, offering a rare combination of expertise and emotional intelligence. It’s an invaluable resource for any parent-to-be, and it truly stands out as one of the best books available on childbirth today.

[CJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A positive addition to the plethora of self-help books

The writing style in Gina C. Mundy’s “A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth” is casual and straightforward, and her book is meticulously structured to support her general thesis (that an informed parent might make better decisions). It is an easy read, possibly because the author does not address some of the worst scenarios in labour. This leaves a reasonably jolly, ‘everything will be fine’ view of childbirth if we all talk, assuming no one administers Pitocin (“the most common factor in legal baby cases”).

Mundy presents a solid, non-authoritative view of childbirth; by her admission, she is not a medical professional. I would like to have seen a medical professional edit, or at least endorse, this book—because I cannot gauge if the advice is sound. With this firmly in mind, first-time parents could use this as guidance as to what to expect beyond the usual rose-tinted platitudes from friends and relatives. Mundy shares many ‘true’ stories of various parents’ experiences and other personal anecdotes. Some of these can be viewed as pointers for an eyes-wide-open experience, especially as Mundy has many years of experience analysing problems during labour. I do agree that parents should be well-informed about what should—and could—happen during their childbirth experience.

My main disappointment was the final chapter, “A Perfect Gift from God”. While this is a direct quote from one of Mundy’s associates, for me, it let the rest of the book down. I didn’t feel there was any place in a textbook for religion.

I do not know if any of the material might lead to a “healthy baby” or “safe” hospital experience. Mundy has a legal background, and she notably states, “While my profession revolves around labor and delivery, I am neither a doctor, a nurse, nor a licensed medical professional. The information provided in this book is NOT intended to provide medical advice.” Yet, if this book results in just one expectant mother avoiding a medical mistake during childbirth, it is a positive addition to the plethora of self-help books on the topic.

Mundy advises, “If you have an epidural in place, you may be better prepared for a potential C-section.” I will leave it to you to decide if this is the wisest thing for the author of a quasi-medical book to suggest.

[Zoey Codrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth," Gina Mundy offers an essential, heartfelt guide that empowers expecting parents with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate the often overwhelming world of childbirth. From the very first page, Mundy’s compassionate tone resonates deeply, offering reassurance to those entering this transformative life stage. This book serves as a trusted companion, providing parents with clear, actionable information to make informed decisions, while emphasizing the importance of safety and emotional well-being.

Mundy's unique ability to balance practical advice with genuine emotional support is what makes this guide stand out. She understands the fears and uncertainties that many parents face, and her thoughtful words offer a sense of comfort without sugarcoating the realities of childbirth. Whether it’s a first-time pregnancy or the arrival of a new sibling, readers will find themselves relating to the honest experiences shared, as well as feeling uplifted by the positive, encouraging tone throughout.

Without revealing too much, this guide delves into critical topics that every parent should know, but often don’t have easy access to. Mundy shines a light on important but overlooked details, giving parents the tools to ask the right questions and take control of their birthing experience. Her focus on creating a safer childbirth for both mother and baby will resonate with readers who prioritize holistic care and personalized birthing plans.

The beauty of "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" lies not only in its informative content but also in its emotional depth. Mundy acknowledges the profound journey that childbirth represents, guiding readers through it with compassion, clarity, and unwavering support. Her writing style is warm and approachable, making even complex medical concepts easy to grasp and empowering parents to advocate for themselves and their children.

This book deserves a 5 out of 5 stars for its seamless blend of emotional intelligence and expert advice. Mundy’s passion for ensuring a safe and empowering childbirth experience shines through every page. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive, empathetic guide that truly puts parents and their babies first.