Chapter 1: It's Not Your Mother's Birth Experience Anymore

Throughout the book, you will find key points to focus on, including:

• Dad Boxes, which contain tips written specifically for dads that will help him better understand what's going on, how he can be involved and exactly what to be doing.
• Prenatal prep work: Homework assignments guaranteed to intrigue. Does anyone who takes a traditional childbirth class actually go home and practice breathing patterns? I doubt it. So instead, I suggest that you and your partner have an ongoing series of discussions. To make this a little easier, I've included conversation starters that will get you talking about critical issues, such as: what your biggest concerns are; what you need to get you through this process; what your thoughts are about epidurals, c-sections, and other interventions; and how you envision your partner being involved.

Chapter 2: Yes, Virginia, It's Going To Hurt

Okay, It Hurts, But What Does That Mean?

What makes it especially difficult is not so much the intensity of the pain itself, but rather that it goes on for so long. And instead of fading with time, the contractions get more painful and last longer. That said, there are a number of factors that we know can influence your perception of the severity of your pain and how long it lasts.

Chapter 3: Why Your Husband is the Most Important Person in the Delivery Room (Other Than You)

Time to lose the cape

I hate to be the one to break the news to you, but it's important to put a reality- based spin on this: If you don't pack up your Superwoman cape right now, pronto, you're in for a rude awakening. No matter how many books and articles you read or classes you take, you'll still want to have an unconditional source of support, someone who loves you from your head to your toes who will provide a presence throughout the entire process.

Chapter 6: Who Are These People? Introducing the Medical Team and How to Have the Best Relationship with Them

Strategies for Success

...your medical team is on your side, and they'll do everything they can to help you have a safe and satisfying birth experience. By reading this book, you've put yourself and your husband in a whole different place than most of the other patients your nurses and doctors usually see. You're already familiar with the process of labor and delivery, you know the terminology, you understand that this journey is likely going to take some unexpected twists and turns before you reach the end...

Chapter 8: A Stunning Childbirth Memory for Two

Having a baby is the experience of a lifetime, and one of the cornerstones of McMoyler Method is to make sure that your memory of your baby's birth is positively smashing...