As our culture searches for ways to self educate and explore alternative therapies, several trends have developed in the arena of pregnancy and birth. Many women are no longer content to play the part of the complacent patient, obeying without question, “whatever the doctor orders.”

Taking seriously the responsibility of carrying and birthing a new life, they seek out information through books and support groups of like-minded women. This new breed of woman considers herself to be a health care consumer. She is dedicated to making the best choices possible for herself and her baby.

One new trend in pregnancy and childbirth is the organization of Birth Networks. These groups meet regularly and are attended by birthing professionals, as well as pregnant women and their families. Their mission is to empower and support each other while advocating for the improvement of maternity care in their community. While starting out as a grassroots movement, these Birth Networks have grown exponentially throughout the county. Because of the dedication of its members, Birth Networks have made steady success, improving the care women and their babies receive through pregnancy and childbirth. For more information on the subject of Birth Networks visit www.normalbirth.lamaze.org.

Water-assisted labor, also known as nature's epidural, has become a most sought after tool for pain relief for women in labor. Hydrotherapy is considered to be as potent as a narcotic for pain relief. What better time to employ the benefits of hydrotherapy than during labor and birth.

In addition to pain relief, the use of water immersion during labor has several other benefits. The therapeutic effects of a warm water tub can be realized in the feelings of weightlessness, psychological relaxation and generalized relief of mental tension. Relaxation is a key component for keeping the laboring woman comfortable and allowing her labor to progress. Women who labor in water typically experience less fatigue. The reduction in stress and additional energy facilitates the laboring uterus to contract more efficiently, thus allowing labor to progress. For more information on the subject of water-assisted labor and birth, visit Global Maternal/Child Health Associates at www.waterbirth.org.

Labor assistants have been around for centuries. In addition to the midwife, it was common for the laboring woman to have at least one other woman with her during labor and birth. Today we are seeing the re-emergence of the labor attendant, also known as a doula. The doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and tactical support for the laboring woman and her family through pregnancy, labor and birth.

Studies have shown that women who work with a doula require less pain medication, experience a reduction in the rate of cesarean section and experience shorter labors. The number of trained doulas is growing thanks to DONA International. DONA reported a 10-fold increase in the number of certified doulas in the last seven years. For more information regarding doulas, visit DONA International www.dona.com.

As women continue to evaluate their maternity care options, the number of trends will increase. As one obstetrician stated, “A woman is not just a uterus and a cervix. She is a thinking individual, capable of making choices.” These new trends indicate that in this era, women are eager to be actively involved in the process of pregnancy and childbirth.

Andrea Branagan, MA, CNMI, is a childbirth educator and health care advocate. She is an associate with Choice's West, A Center for Women's Health, and the director

of education for “Gentle Birth Choices.” To learn more, visit www.gentlebirthchoices.net