principles

Guiding Principles and Philosophical Assumptions
of the Birthing From Within^® approach

Childbirth is a rite of passage, not a medical event
(even when medical care plays a part).

Preparation for birth is treated as the rite of passage it is,
no matter where, how or with whom parents are giving birth.

Parents deserve support for any birth option, which might be right for them (whether it be drugs, cesarean, hospital, birth center or home birth).

Parents' individual needs and differences determine class content.

The main focus of the class is *birthing-in-awareness* rather than birth outcome.

Pain is an inevitable part of childbirth, yet much can be done to ease suffering.

The possibility of unexpected, unwelcome surprises is a part of
preparing parents for birth & parenthood.

Fathers and birth partners help best as birth guardians or loving partners…
not as coaches; they also need support.

Childbirth preparation is also parent preparation.