I would highly recommend this book for those trying for a Christ centered birthing! Although it was written in 1981 it is still fairly relevant now. Though some of the medical procedural information no longer applies much of the technique and scripture still do. I myself have used similar techniques with a fantastic and rewarding outcome!
The book has 3 sections. The first is all about building a firm foundation in your faith and marriage. If one is reading this book for information of bible based birthing there is no necessity to start at the beginning but it is very important to make sure both your relationships with the Father and your husband are in the "right" place. At least one that you are comfortable with. I suggest reading it cover to cover, especially for the first time parents since there is so much good information about all aspects of marriage, birthing, and parenting (as it should since that is part of the books title!). Also in the first section is timing/planning of children. All of these things are to be prayed over by the couple.
The second section is all about pregnancy and birthing. Starting with the need to pray WITH the baby while one is pregnant. It covers nutrition of both body and spirit, insisting on BOTH parents doing daily devotions together and separate. It continues to the breathing techniques (which are the same techniques I used in the birth of my Elijah). It's all about slow, deep, abdominal breaths during contractions, keeping every muscle in your body relaxed. Any tension, even a furrowed brow or clenched fist, will add pain and discomfort. The medical explanation I learned from another book is because tension releases the "panic" reflex which leads to pain in labor. In between contractions one should take cleansing breaths. Next, exercise is covered: walking, pelvic rock, tailor sitting and kegels, all very important to prepare for birthing. I would like to add swaying in a clockwise motion on a birthing ball while practicing your breathing as a vital exercise. I suggest using praise nursery music to add in relaxation. Something you enjoy and can use when baby is born. Baby can hear the music even when still in your tummy and after birth the familiar tunes will be soothing. Our Elijah can attest to this.
There is a sample birth story as well. Also included is a section on choosing the birth attendant and place that best suits you, whether it be an obgyn or midwife, hospital or home birth. The attendant needs to understand that they are being allowed a great privilege to attend your birthing and should have similar birthing ideals. Place is strictly a matter of preference unless there are complications.
The third and final section is all about parenting. Something I feel the first time parents should read. I think all parents should read the first chapter of this part since much of it is very important to the christian parent who is planning to give birth naturally.
Below are some quotes that I found profound:
Although a child must make his own decision to accept Christ as his Savior when he or she is old enough to understand, the child's spirit is being made receptive even before when he has believing parents and grandparents. p. 107
The best preparation for parenthood is for a young husband and wife to feed there souls, tasting the good word of God. Let them read the Bible daily, alone and together, meditate on it , memorize it, obey it. May their child not be born into a family where famine rules, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord. p.119
Childbirth is one of the most powerful experiences of life, one in which those present at the birth often become aware of the presence of the Creator. It is a holy time, and the rightful place of birth, a sanctuary. p.160
Blessed in deed is the infant whose godly parents have made every preparation for his or her arrival under the guidance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit. p. 178
the most significant journey a human being ever makes is the few inches from the mother's womb in the light of day... what awaits the child given to the light? p. 199
The one unchanging fact of human life is change. We are not as we were yesterday, nor is there permanence in any of our relationships with others. Our lives are constantly moving, changing, like the mountain streams rushing downward toward the sea, branching out in many directions, merging again at times and then separating as they spill across the landscape toward the end. p. 244
I would suggest this book to any christian couple, especially younger couples before and during pregnancy. Yet it gives loads of insight to the experienced family as well. All in all a good read.
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