Childbirth Wisdom: From the World's Oldest Societies

by Judith Goldsmith

Book by Goldsmith, Judith

Genres: Childrens, Anthropology

291 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1984

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the birth stories of the women from other countries. It is so interesting to me how women birth so differently all over the world. My favorite parts were the chapters on rituals for celebrating the pregnant woman and the new born child. I wish that we did more celebration of women that focused on how amazing their bodies are. I think American women could use a little more trust and love for their bodies.

[Alba · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful and fascinating book about childbirth as it's always been practiced all over the earth until very recently. It's more of an anthropology book than anything else, full of testimonies and stories on the topic. While I think that any reader will find valuable information in its pages, mothers-to-be will especially benefit from its wisdom, where childbirth is seen as a physiological (but also magical) process, more than a series of medical protocols and procedures.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The ironic effect of civilization is to make it ever more complicated to live life simply.” It was fascinating to read about birth experiences in traditional societies. Healthy diet and regular exercise throughout pregnancy directly contributed to easier and faster childbirth. They massaged babies with oils that were natural vitamin D supplements. We are gradually losing this knowledge built over generations of women with influence of medical births.

[Rachel Gula · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you've ever wondered what childbirth is really like in other parts of the world (both the positives and the negatives) this is the book to read. Fantastic, in-depth research, history and stories, but also practical ideas for women in Western societies to reclaim more natural birth practices.

[Shana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I will not finish this book because I'm utterly burnt-out on pregnancy/child birth books at this point in the year. It was interesting though, the parts that I read, and I'm sure it also presents some useful information to moms-to-be on various labor positions and practices to ease the work.