A few years ago, I traveled to Ethiopia to report on how hospital births improve fetal and maternal mortality. The numbers were staggering: Giving birth in a hospital saved lives by the thousands.

As an expectant parent, you may have heard about childbirth practices that fall outside of standard labor, delivery and newborn care. Some may offer possible benefits to you or your baby. However, ...

For some women, the allure is powerful: Instead of giving birth against a backdrop of beeping machines and IV tubes, they’ll deliver in the warmth of their living room, guided by one or two trusted ...

Why is Christian Science in our name? Our name is about honesty. The Monitor is owned by The Christian Science Church, and we’ve always been transparent about that. The Church publishes the Monitor ...

No words were spoken during Kim Binford’s labor. When she wanted a back massage, she pointed to her back. When it was time to push, the midwife gave the thumbs-up sign. It was a “quiet birth.” Which ...

Practicing self-hypnosis, having a yogababy or planning an active labour? Here’s how to find your ideal birth class. Birth education now comes in as many shapes and sizes as a pregnant woman’s belly, ...

Before giving birth for the first time, women may be nervous about what contractions and the birthing experience will be, as well the recovery and the initial care of the little baby. For some, this ...