Compendium for a Health Pregnancy and a Normal Birth

by Joan Donley

[2003. Self-published; 402 pages, paperback.]

[Review first published in Midwifery Today Issue 77, Spring 2006, © 2006, Midwifery Today, Inc. Review by Cheryl K. Smith.]

Supporting a grass-roots, traditional midwifery model, this book is packed with useful information. It is well-researched, referencing hundreds of medical articles and encompassing virtually all aspects of pregnancy and childbirth. Starting with sections on prenatal care and nutrition, the book goes on to cover problems in pregnancy and labor, infections and postnatal concerns. An appendix on acupuncture and a glossary further add to its usefulness. The only thing that I think would make it better would be an index. See tribute to Joan on page 26 of this issue.

Reviewer Cheryl K. Smith is managing editor for Midwifery Today magazine, editor and publisher of Ruminations, the Nigerian Dwarf and Mini Dairy Goat Magazine and raises a herd of miniature dairy goats in the coast range of Oregon.