"Do your homework," Dahl says. "Ask questions, get advice, and talk to those who have been through it."

When Dahl went into labor with her daughter Sabrina 12 years ago, she had no clue of what was ahead. Pain, drugs, fear, a plethora of confusing advice culminated into an overwhelming experience.

"There was such limited information about what to do in the delivery room," she says. "Many of the books talk about what to expect during pregnancy or when a child grows, but not really about the birthing itself. What does exist is written by doctors or nurses, not by mothers who have been there."

Dahl's mission was to uncover the mysteries of childbirth. Over a period of twelve years, she sought advice from mothers across Canada and the United States, as well as international childbirth experts and researchers. She even put an ad in newspapers to solicit stories and insight from readers. The response was overwhelming.

 
 

"There were so many mothers who offered stories," she says. "Their advice was practical and insightful."

"Pregnancy & Childbirth Secrets" is crammed with ready-to-use tips, techniques, guidelines and insights for an easier, safer, and gentler childbirth, whether a baby is born in a hospital, at a birth center, or at home.

Some of Dahl's advice includes:

If possible, refrain from inducing the baby's birth.

If planning for an epidural, time it right. If you have it too early, it may slow down or stop labor. Instead of an epidural, consider nitrous oxide (laughing gas) so you're still able to change positions and remain active during labor.

Go in with a plan for pain. It's not just about breathing. Dahl has over thirty different methods to deal with labor pain.

Refrain from lying on your back during labor and delivery as this can slow down labor, make it more difficult, or may restrict oxygen supply to the baby.

To reduce pain during labor stay active by standing, leaning, squatting, or walking to make your labor easier and safer.

Eating and drinking fluids during labor can help to reduce pain.

Talk to experts and create a support team. A doula, birthing coach or midwife can be a great advisor before, during and after childbirth for you and your partner. Your team will also help ensure you and your partner are fully informed when it comes down to the crunch.

There is even a section for fathers, with secrets to prepare them for their role as coach and parent.

Dahl believes sharing information is essential to making good choices for the mother and the child.

"Women trust other women--it's just natural," she says. "When you give your own experience as a mother, others feel more confident. Often we will share the little things that are really important, but professionals will leave out."

About the Author:
Gail J. Dahl is a national bestselling author, childbirth researcher, educator and advocate for safe, gentle childbirth. Dahl is the founder and Executive Director of the Canadian Childbirth Association.

"Pregnancy & Childbirth Secrets" has received international acclaim from medical doctors to powerful government administrators. Within 30 days of release, her new book reached bestselling status and was distributed across North America. Her first book, "Pregnancy & Childbirth Tips" also hit Canada's national bestseller list.

Gail Dahl has received many awards for her work in education and women's health; YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, The Woman of Vision Award and the Great Women of the 21st Century. "Pregnancy & Childbirth Secrets" has been nominated for the "Nautilus Books Awards 2008", "Book of the Year Award 2008" and has been given the "Labor of Love Award" by Borders Books & Music.

For more information on this release, or to book an interview, contact Donna Gray, Publicist at 403.243.7303 or 403.831.1150.

Website: http://web.mac.com/pregnancysecrets

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