Fathers at Birth

by Rose St. John

Only a few generations ago, men were left to pace the waiting room anxiously anticipating the birth of their children. Times have changed. But many men are still at a loss when it comes to knowing what their role is in the birthing room. 'Fathers at Birth' shows you how to transform yourself into the physical, emotional, and spiritual guide your partner needs you to be by providing you with a clear understanding of your role during labor and birth; simple concepts, tips, and tools you need to be a confident birth partner; how to touch and talk to a laboring woman; insight and skills needed to be a companion who makes a difference; and much, much more!

272 pages, Paperback

First published November 9, 2008

Reviews

[Andy Mesecher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unbias, this book helped me prepare to be the best support system possible for my wife. We also had a doula, but knowing different relaxation methods, nurse terminology, different types of labor....I can't recommend this book enough. An so far, my only 5 star review of the 6+ parenting books I've read thus far.

[joe touzel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than "dad's expecting too" for preparing for the actual birthing times, what to expect and how to manage different scenarios and stay calm.

[Stuart Elliott · Rating 1 out of 5]

I could not continue reading this book. It markets itself as being a practical guide for fathers during the birthing process; however the first chapter gives away the impracticality of the book, Mrs. St. John wants to share her perspective on the transcendent, sacred aspect of birth. If I wanted to read about the spiritual interconnectedness of the masculine and feminine, the sacred writings, psychology, philosophy, or meditations of childbirth I would have sought a Himalayan yogi nut. All I want to know is what to do when my wife makes a face like emily rose does in the excorcist.
Don't get me wrong, I don't want to take anything away from the mystery and wonder of chilbirth that attest to the greatness, power, wisdom and distinctness of the Creator who sustains all things with His soverign hand, but I don't want to hear about how my masculine potential was realized in the womb of my wife.
If there is any practical wisdom within those pages I will never know. My wife, being the better part of valour, has relieved me of my duty.

[Topher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book may seem a bit hippie-dippie to some, but it was unbelievably helpful to me during my wife's labor. The mindfulness and presence exercises contained in this book were invaluable during the labor process, and I'd recommend it to anyone whose partner is going to give birth. It made it a relatively stress-free and pleasant experience, and I can honestly say that this book helped make the night of my son's birth the best night of my life.