Amazon.com

According to medical journalist Diana Korte, vaginal births after cesarean, or VBACs(pronounced vee-backs), are occurring at a rate six times greater in the 1990s than they were in the previous decade, and with more support from those in the medical profession. This is good news for the many pregnant women who want a vaginal delivery after previously delivering babies by cesarean section. Also good news is The VBAC Companion, a clearly written and thorough guide to lead women step-by-step through the process of planning for a VBAC.

Korte, author of Every Woman's Body,gives firm reasons for VBACs--they are safer for both mother and baby--and backs them up with medical facts. Strong chapters on overcoming fear, planning your VBAC, finding VBAC-friendly doctors and hospitals, and experiencing a VBAC make this book invaluable. The appendices provide fascinating statistics about infant mortality rates and cesarean and VBAC rates around the world, as well as extensive listings of resources. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Disturbed by this book's all or nothing approach
Although there seems to be a lot of useful and practical information in this book, I was deeply disturbed by the complete dismissal of necessary C-sections -- particularly in the case of fetal distress. My daughter would be dead if if her level of distress had not been caught by a monitor and they hadn't gotten her out as quickly as they did. It was not a pleasant experience-- but it was what needed to be done. THe alternative would have been my child's death. To fail to distinguish between a lifesaving c-section and the kind of inappropriate c-section that is all too common completely undermines the book. For instance, the author's discussion of fetal monitors and fetal distress only emphasized erroneous readings and never acknowledged that guess what, sometimes babies really do go into distress and die-- and this is a situation where a judicious c-section (first or second time!) can be a life saver. Another VBAC author, Kaufman, wrote an earlier VBAC book (also listed with Amazon)that seemed to me to be a great deal more balanced because it did acknowledge there are situations where you need first time or repeat sections-- and it also emphasized that the patient should be primarily responsible for deciding what is best for her baby and herself (as opposed to the doc, the med establishment at large, what is currently fashionable, etc) This book seems to think that only foolishly fearful women will consider repeat sections, which is quite offensive given what's at stake. I am awfully disappointed in this book, which I had hoped would help me decide on the whole VBAC question with balanced, thorough information-- the all or nothing approach makes it difficult to trust the author's judgement.

Well-organized, positive book about achieving a VBAC
When I heard the author of _A Good Birth, A Safe Birth_ had written a book on vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), I bought it that day. As I expected, I found it well-organized, full of substantiated facts, extremely helpful, and (sometimes rare in the VBAC community) not too angry. She gives the facts that prove that there is very little reason a woman should not have a VBAC, shows why one has to work hard to find the right doctor and hospital, strongly encourages a woman's support (in addition to one's husband) during labor, gives tips for turning breech and posterior babies, and does it all in a calm, moderate voice that could scare no one off. This book has given me confidence that I can achieve a VBAC. Thank you Diana Korte!

Better than other reviewers say it is!
I didn't purchase this book due to some of the negative comments it received. Instead, I borrowed it from the library. After reading it, I feel that it is a VERY informative book giving both sides of the story, which is incredibly important in making informed decisions about such a controversial topic. I think it is supportive and helps you see that even if you don't achieve a VBAC in the end, you are not a failure. The personal VBAC stories were particularaly empowering, and her explanation of statistics used in literature were also very supportive. Buy this book, I am going to, just to get me through the rest of this 2nd pregnancy!

A Must Read for those considering VBAC.
I had a VBAC in 5/2000 and this book was my bible throughout my pregnancy... NOW, I'm a doula and I reccomend this book to all my VBAC clients. Korte answers all questions - even the ones' you may not think to ask. The birthstories she includes in this book are inspiring and empowering.

Good luck with your VBAC. You CAN do it!

Good book, but not good enough if you want to attempt VBAC
This book has a lot of facts and medical stats, which is good to know before you try attempting VBAC. The problem that I find with this book is that it lacks support, what I mean by that is that the way is written, it sounds like if the author is blaming you for your cesarean, like if was your fault for not doing more research and stuff. After I read this book, it made me deppressed and with a feeling of guilt...I expected the book to be different, like teaching us what we should do and what we shouldn't do, including your recent situation (pregnancy)and why your last pregnancy resulted in a c-section, to help us make a decision wether VBAC should be appropiate or not.

Also, the author wrote this book based on Doctors opinions, and from moms that have or haven't accomplished VBAC. At the very beginning of the book, the author writes, how she never had a vbac, how she never had to go through that, and how she gave birth naturally, without any problems to her kids (talk about a slap in the face right from the beginning), on the other hand, the only knowledge she has about this, is what she wrote on her book, after that, she knows nothing else, how do I know this? the author invites you to write her, but her replies are all the same: "please do some research on that, all I know is what I wrote on my book"... makes me wonder, why the hell did she write this book without having any other information and knowledge about this topic, when all she knows is what others have told her? ... Read more

Book Description

With OVER 1,600 exam-type questions, this comprehensive question & answer review book, is ideal for course review as well as for USMLE Step 2 preparation. All questions have been updated and revised to follow the current USMLE Step 2. A bonus practice test is also included. ... Read more

Book Description

Developments in MRI hardware and software have placed breast MRI within reach of many more potential users. At the same time, breast MRI is evolving from research tool to clinically useful imaging modality. The impetus for further clinical development is likely to pass from MRI researchers to 'breast' radiologists. Many of these radiologists will be experienced in breast imaging but not necessarily MRI. With this in mind, Breast MRI in Practice provides a comprehensive and practical guide to imaging the breast with MRI. ... Read more

Book Description

A practical, step-by-step reference guide for the technologistin mammography, this book covers the basic and advanced informationnecessary to produce and maintain production of quality mammographicimages by emphasizing technique, positioning, quality control andspecial procedures. Provides a basic understanding of mammographicpathology and how best to demonstrate it with special positioning aswell as selection of the proper machinery and its upkeep. ... Read more

Book Description

Finally... subject specific question books for the Step 2! Medicine - Surgery - Pediatrics - Psychiatry - OB/GYN... Each book simulates the USMLE with 100 board-style questions broken down into blocks. In this companion series to the Blueprints, each book simulates the USMLE with 100 board-style questions testing the application of clinical concepts learned during medical school.

Includes 100 board-style questions in random order to simulate the USMLE

Supplies correct and incorrent answers to assess your knowledge

Each book covers a different discipline to focus on weak areas

An economical option to the comprehensive question books

It's what students have been asking for...Blueprints Q&As ... Read more

Book Description

A well-illustrated quick-reference guide to the complete management of emergent medical problems occurring in women. Formatted to lead the clinician from signs and symptoms to differential diagnosis. Includes a bulleted list of high-yield key facts at the start of each chapter and highlighted diagnostic and treatment guidelines. ... Read more

Book Description

The first complete guide for couples to the most popular method of natural childbirth. Destined to become the standard book on Lamaze, covering everything from the moment of pregnancy to the difficulties of adjusting to parenthood.
... Read more

Reviews (9)

Need to buy another one
I bought this book before the birth of my first child and found it so full of good information that I lent it to a friend... Now that I am expecting my second child, I am ordering another copy for myself.
It was by far the most informative book I read about child birth.

Excellent Childbirth Resource
This is a great book. My son was born overseas in a small town and this book was the only natural childbirth resource I used. It provided me with all the necessary information about the Lamaze method which proved to be a HUGE help for me during the birth process. The pre-delivery exercise plan included is simple yet effective. I highly recommend this book to any woman, but especially those who - for whatever reason - may not be taking any specific childbirthing classes.

Hard to find a better reference on Lamaze
My wife and I are extreme information hounds (much to the suprise and occasionaly annoyance of doctors and hospital staff who are used to the usual uninformed masses). We have researched many childbirthing books including those somewhat opposed to the Lamaze method. But this book set the record strait and proved itself in its comprehensiveness and generally satisfied our demanding desire for knowledge. I can't say that the book contains the absolute answer for every imaginable question, but it does provide a comprehensive and reasonable foundation for what Lamaze really stands for in all its nuances.

I'm somehow suprised that more soon-to-be mothers out there don't want to read more about what is going to take place to them. Information is key to understanding, security and a sense of control. This pook provides alot of that.

We looked at a lot of good books on childbirthing. This is probably the only one we would actually recommend.

More frightening than useful.
Being a first time mother, I was looking for a book that would help me along with my Lamaze classes. This was not the book. The authors seem to be Gung-Ho anti-hospital with their critiques of the admitting processes of hospitals to the use of intravenous and medicines administered during childbirth. They concentrate on the risk of infection that can be contracted from standard hospital procedures to the point of paranoia. The authors attempt to make the reader more informed but just end up scaring them with all of the obstetrical textbook jargon. In a sense, it reads more like a 'Worst Case Scenario' handbook.

Before reading, I was nervous about childbirth, even having heard a few horror stories from family members and friends, since I reading it, I have become absolutely frightened.

highly informative & motivating
although i have gone through a lamaze class and had natural childbirth with my first-born, i still found this book very informative and useful. the book advocates natural, medicine-free childbirth, but it also thoroughly discusses all other possible complications that could come up and interventions that might be necessary during childbirth. this is very reassuring to the pregnant woman because she will not be taken by surprise and overwhelmed by all her choices during labor. it has photographs of actual childbirths, including a caesarian, illustrations showing the various stages of labor, an exercise routine, etc. the various breathing techniques, relaxation methods, and other coping strategies are described in detail. definitely worth reading & highly recommended! ... Read more

Book Description

Substantially revised and updated, the new edition of thisfavorite standard textbook includes discussion of the latest clinicalwisdom in the management of ectopic pregnancy, multiple pregnancies,ART and endoscopic surgery. Gynecologic oncology is coveredextensively. New ancillaries make it even more useful to residents andstudents. This comprehensive text also includes new line drawings andmore color plates. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

DANFORTH'S OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY, 8TH
This book is not like an ordinary medical textbook. It is more like an intermediate type between a medical text and a medical periodical. It gives considerable space to progresses of many medical-scientific research and the names of their authors. While on the other hand, it provides extremely concise outlines of etiology-manifestation-diagnosis-treatment for many common diseases, sometimes even skip certain important topics. As far as I am aware of , the following common topics are not or barely mentioned by this book: physiological changes of pregnant women; rubella infection during pregnancy; breast feeding of mothers with mastitis; the route and rate of mother-child transmission of HIV; the differential diagnosis of ruptured ectopic pregnancy; contraindications of the use of IUD; forceps use in labor; APGAR; There are also quite a few mistakes in the rear index.

Excellent core text for Residents
Very good O&G text. This updated edition is well done ... Read more

Book Description

An easy-to-use, complete reference for obstetricians, gynecologists, general practitioners, emergency room doctors, pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and students, Clinical Protocols in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology provides easy access to essential information. Readers will not have to wade through unnecessary facts to find the algorithms and protocols they need. A protocol book, not a reference text, it contains photographs and diagrams that help them understand and diagnose common and not-so-common ailments in the realm of pediatric and adolescent gynecology. It is the only quick reference book available in this field. ... Read more

Book Description

This volume, authored by recognized experts in the field, offers a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging of the abdomen and pelvis. The individual chapters provide extensive descriptions and high-quality illustrations of normal appearances, common diseases, and rarer entities, consider technical requirements, and document latest developments. In addition, the value of magnetic resonance imaging relative to other imaging modalities is discussed. The result is a profound overview and indispensable reference that will be of great interest not only to radiologists but also to gastroenterologists, surgeons, gynecologists, and urologists. ... Read more

Book Description

This book offers complete coverage of the basic principles, the practice, and advanced techniques of breast ultrasound:

- Checklists for each image for easy-to-follow interpretation

- Sorted by the type of lesion or disorder

- Differential Diagnosis

- Comparison with mammographic images

The aim of the book is to standardize the technique and interpretation of findings as far as possible. A very useful and comprehensive introduction to the use of breast ultrasound for the beginner and the resident alike. ... Read more

Book Description

Not only was Special Women the first book on the topic of the intrapartum doula, it is full of comprehensive information about providing continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother-to-be and her partner.Doulas and monitrices seek to cultivate a positive birth memory for the mother and can act as a liaison between the laboring woman, her partner and her clinical provider.Professional labor assistants have beneficial effects on birth outcomes. Eleven studies show the following: shorter labors fewer complications & lower cesarean rates less need for oxytocin to speed labor less use of forceps less need for pain medication and epidurals greater maternal satisfaction with childbirth birth and lesspostpartum depression shorter hospital stays for the mother fewer admissions to special care nurseries for babies easier initiation of breastfeeding.This easy-to-read resource has been updated in it's 3rd edition with the latest information about doulas and monitrices. Many doulas call Special Women the "doula encylopedia" as it is the most all-compassing book on becoming and practicing as an intrapartum doula. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Think you have what it takes to be a doula?
If so, this book should be on your list of "must-reads". It highlights both the ups and downs of being a professional labor support person. Think the medical profession will balk at your presence? Will you be able to provide continuous support for *days* on end? This book will give you the skinny on what to expect and how to handle most situations.

Additionally, the book has a section of real birth stories, told by a variety of people involved in the birth process. These offer insight into how real people react during child birth.

If anything was lacking in this book, it was the typos. I can't help it - I am not a perfectionist, but typos to me are kind of inexcusable. There were weird spacings and indentations. Other than that, the book is a real find.

Prospective doula's--a must read!!
Before you drop everything to become a doula, make sure you read this extreemly informative book. It dashes any hopes for a lucrative, care free career, but instills a sense of the kind of spirit and commitment necessary to be one of these "special women." ... Read more

Book Description

For years, women thought they had only two choices for menopause: avoid taking synthetic hormones altogether and suffer the occasionally debilitating effects of menopause, ranging from bone loss to sleeplessness, or accept a prescription for Premarin and Provera and with it an increased risk of some cancers. But, at this groundbreaking book proves, there is a better, safer, more effective way.

In Natural Woman, Natural Menopause, Marcus Laux, N.D., a leading expert on natural medicine, and Christine Conrad, a patient herself who experienced the unpleasant side effects of synthetic hormones, cut through the confusion and misinformation and show women that:

• They can take natural, plant-derived hormones, which match their own hormones exactly, without any known side effects or cancer risks
• Bio-identical plant-derived hormones are widely available in this country, are prescribed by doctors, and can be taken in pill form or as a cream
• More and more pharmaceutical companies are manufacturing bio-identical plant-derived hormones
• They can look and feel better than ever before

Accessible as well as authoritative, Natural Woman, Natural Menopause features the stories of other women who, like Christine Conrad, found that they didn't have to accept less than a completely safe alternative. More important, in Natural Woman, Natural Menopause Marcus Laux and Christine Conrad offer readers their complete plan for long-lasting health and renewed vitality. Following their "Natural Woman Plan," which features the right combination of plant-derived hormones, nutritional supplements, a plant-rich diet, and an exercise program to eliminate and even reverse the effects of bone loss, women will find that not only will they be more energetic and radiant than they thought possible but they will be adding years of good health to their lives.

Whether you are currently undergoing hormone replacement therapy and can't imagine giving it up or you are in the process of considering your alternatives, Natural Woman, Natural Menopause is a book that no woman nearing or experiencing menopause should be without.

Reviews (12)

Hormones from plants may provide safe menopause therapy.
"Natural Woman, Natural Menopause" is for people looking for menopausal
therapeutic alternatives beyond the current medical protocol. It is the only
resource I have found that discusses in detailed, non-technical language, little
known information on prescription-strength, plant- derived hormones made
from soybeans and yams.

With all the controversy and conflicting studies of HRT
(Hormone Replacement Therapy) this is a "must-read" for anyone who is
considering using hormones. The studies of these plant-based alternatives,
albeit of limited scope, as well as anecdotal reports, indcate that they are
much safer and gentler than synthetics, yet just as effective. The cautious
New York Times published a report that natural progesterone was found
superior in results to synthetic progestins, thus the research is probably well-
founded. Natural hormones may be an answer for a safe and comfortable
menopausal passage.

Like other books on menopause, this one covers non-hormonal therapies
such as diet, herbs, and exercise, both to augment an HRT regimen, and for
those who wish to completely avoid all hormones. But unique to "Natural
Woman, Natural Menopause" is the only thorough, yet easily understood
explanation of HRT using plant-based hormones. Scientifically oriented
minds can obtain more technical information from woman's organizations
and pharmacies that supply the natural hormones. Most or all of these are
listed in the book, as well as important resources (like home testing kits,
etc.) for managing one's own menopause.

Although the authors are enthusiastic proponents of natural hormone
therapy, I feel it is still a serious personal decision for anyone approaching or
in menopause. Yet for reference, the book really breaks new and optimistic
ground

A must-read book if you are making a decision on HRT
After perusing several other books on HRT and reading their reviews, I am changing the rating from my previous review to 10.

"Natural Woman, Natural Menopause" offers refined information for helping yourself through menopause beyond what is available in other books. Knowledge of natural plant-derived hormones is necessary in order to make an informed decision on whether to use HRT or not, and this is the only book I know that gives sufficient information to add to the equation.

Before you either start hormones or decide they are not for you, read this book. If I decide to use hormones, based on the evidence presented, they will indeed be the natural ones

Natural Woman Natural Menopause
As a medical professional, RN, I feel qualified to tell everyone that this book saved my life. After 12 years of Premarin, I had developed every side effect listed in this book. I thought I had a terrible disease process happening to my body. Then I asked myself " If a patient came to you with these symptoms, what would be the first thing you asked that patient." The answer was simple, "What medications are you taking?" The culprit was Premarin!!! And I now have a new lease on life. I take the Tri Est/ Progesterone discussed in this book and I feel 20 years younger, some say I look it too!

Excellent Book
I've read six books on menopause and "the Naturals" and I think it is the best. This book has the most information presented in the most concise format. There is much useful "hands on" information about diet, exercise and the use of natural progesterone. If I could buy only 1 book on the subject, this would be it.

Natural Woman, Natural Menopause
This is a MUST read book for every woman who is concerned about menopause and the decision to take hormones or not. We CAN have the best of both worlds: relief without the risk of cancer.

It should also be read by every doctor who writes HRT prescriptions for their patients.

I loved the book and found it to be very easy, exciting, informative reading, I was glued to every page.

Buy it, read it, and pass it on to all of your friends and doctors! I just ordered a second copy for my doctor as a gift. ... Read more

Book Description

This popular resource continues to offer step-by-step guidance on how to evaluate, diagnose, and manage a wide range of obstetric and gynecologic disorders. The 4th Edition of this bestseller has been completely revised and reorganized to present a more up-to-date approach to the field, with less emphasis on traditional hospital-based practice. It uses the APGO/CREOG curriculum objectives as a framework, with a special emphasis on women's health issues. A new, full-color design with many illustrations and photographs complements the text. Plus, a free downloadable PDA software program provides a complete guide to the most common disorders. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An excellet book
This is a very good book of Obs and Gyn which provided a lot of information on simple way. Everything what is important is bolded on each lesson. It doesn't contain many pictures and schemes and this is the only disadvantage, but that is quiet enough for good understanding. It is suitable for medical students (everything important is signed) and for physicians who work or intend to work on Obs and Gyn Department (to have some concise book for him when they can find everything they want). I highly recommend this title.

An insightful reference book
This book contains a wealth of knowledge for any caretaker of the Obstetric or Gynecology Patient. I found this book extremely easy to use as a cross reference book and it largely aided me in my research. It covers the basics, such as general female anatomy, as well as more complex issues like AIDS in pregnancy. Important information appeared in bolder print and drew my eye, making it easy to skim over in a hurry. I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Take Control of Your Childbirth Experience
New moms are spreading the word to pregnant women just like you: Doulas make pregnancy and childbirth the celebratory experience it is meant to be! Doulas are professionally trained women who provide support before, during, and after delivery. Research has shown that doulas help women have positive birth experiences, decrease the need for pain medication, improve breastfeeding success, and reduce the need for cesarean sections and other invasive procedures. Author Rachel Gurevich interviewed more than 235 women and birth professionals to bring you this best-kept pregnancy secret. Inside, you'll find real mothers' stories and discover how doulas make a joyful difference in childbirth. You'll learn:
·The many ways doulas provide labor support, whether you plan a "natural" or medicated birth
·How to find, hire, and choose the right doula
·How specialized doulas can help you before or after the baby's birth
·How doulas help the dad-to-be
·And more!
Foreword by Mayer Eisenstein, M.D., medical director, Homefirst Health Services ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Thinking of hiring a doula?
You need this book. The author does a terrific job of pointing out the medical and psychological benefits of doula care and otherwise making the case for doulas. The book also contains leads on other great doula resources, so it doubles as a doula sourcebook. Excellent reading.

Excellent book to answer all your doula questions!
I am a childbirth educator and Hypno-doula trainer, and am asked so many times about the benefits of hiring a doula, how to contact them and what to ask to make sure it's a good fit. This book explains it all and more, and I appreciate having it for my lending library. All pregnant women should consider obtaining it since anyone having a hospital birth needs a doula! Childbirth eductors should also get it for their students and encourage them to be informed of all of their birthing choices.

An empowering book for the entire birthing community!
I am a student in anthropology studying Chinese birthing practices among the diaspora of Montreal, and I found this book by accident while browsing the pregnancy section of a local bookstore. I couldn't put it down so I bought it, and then stayed up all night reading it cover to cover. It is concise, engaging, and written for a wide audience, which gets the message out: doulas are good for ALL types of labors from cesarean sections to nonmedicated homebirths and everything inbetween. She gives accounts of mothers, fathers, doulas and health providers to present a clear picture of what a doula can do for everyone involved in the prenatal, labor and postnatal experience. It is empowering to women and their partners without being overly philosophical or "corney" (to quote the author herself). It is an honest look at birth in the North American setting of today, that takes into account the history of birth in the US and Canada and is frank about the situation today in hospitals and out. I had originally intended on buying "The Doula Book" (formerly Mothering the Mother), but found it to be outdated in both it's writing style and the audience it addressed (the 70's mother), despite the fact that it was recently updated. I recommend this book instead of The Doula Book, for expecting mothers and fathers, people considering becoming doulas (I am seriously considering it after reading this book), and anyone who wants a clear picture of what a doula is.

Wonderful addition to doula literature!
As a doula myself,and someone who used a doula for two births, I was so eager to read a new book on the subject. Rachel did an amazing job of framing out the benefits of having a doula,,and prividing glimpses into doula attended births. So much good information, and real life tools to help women choose the best doula for their birth. I highly reccomend this book to any pregnant woman who wants to look back on their birth experience and remember a wonderful journey to motherhood.

Doulas are wonderful
I have had Doula's at both my children's births - one in the hospital with a doctor, one at home with a midwife - and in both cases the Doula made a huge difference to the experience.

If you can only do one thing to help you with your birth hire a doula! This great book will tell you how.

My husband was so happy to have a doula with us - he wanted to share the experience of her birth - but he felt much safer and was able to be more present for me - because our doula was with us. ... Read more

Book Description

Obstetrics and Gynecology: A History and Iconography is the revised edition of Iconographia Gyniatrica, the first comprehensive attempt to record the history of obstetrics and gynecology through pictures. With nearly 1000 illustrations, it provides a monumental historical scope extending through prehistory.Drawing upon masterpieces of art, archeology, and medicine throughout the ages, this work is the most complete pictorial record of the art and science of obstetrics and gynecology ever published. It includes female anatomy, midwifery, embryology, labor and complications, obstetrical instruments, newborns, nursing, contraception, and obstetric and gynecological surgery. ... Read more

Book Description

Have you ever had irregular periods? Do you find that you’re always putting on weight? Do you feel harried, emotional, and upbeat one minute, but down the next? Or do you struggle with adult acne or excess, unwanted facial and body hair? It’s possible that you have PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), a hormonal health conditions that affects one in ten women in the U.S.—and is one of the most common causes of fertility problems.

So if you do have PCOS, chances are that you have questions about fertility buzzing around in your head, such as: Am I fertile? What can I do to boost my chances of pregnancy? Will irregular periods stop me from getting pregnant? Will my symptoms come back if I go off the Pill? Is it now or never? I’ve been trying for months—what next? Will fertility drugs help me? Will I have a healthy pregnancy?

Whether you’re trying to get pregnant, wondering about your chances of having a child in the future, or wondering what on earth to do next, this book can help. Written by two women who have had PCOS at different stages of their fertility journeys, it will help you answer those unique PCOS questions, as well as give you the impetus to take action to boost your chances of fertility with simple self-help strategies. ... Read more