'In a culture where women are inundated with information this book is so refreshing and honest, written in 'lay terms' by Australian author Gabrielle, who undeniably is incredibly knowledgeable and knows exactly what it takes to create an empowered birth, where women know how to surrender and let go and actually love their labour experience, where they have 100% support from their partner who knows exactly what their role is and what to do!'

This is a must-read book for the preparation of your own labour filled with love. Every chapter has been written to empower and assist women to really understand how to surrender, let go and breathe in labour, which are the fundamental skills necessary to labour in a calm relaxed way.

Empowered Birth presents information in an open and honest way written from the eclectic experiences of Gabrielle Targett who worked as a Doula and independent childbirth educator for 26 years. As a mother of three children, all naturally birthed in the water, hypnosis practitioner, expert consultant/writer for the Australian Pregnancy and Birth Magazine, and pregnancy exercise specialist, Gabrielle has a wealth of experience and knowledge which she shares in this unique book.

Gabrielle presents a non-medical approach to childbirth that emphasises empowerment of women/couples, gifting them positive education, wisdom, confidence, and trust in the natural process of birth.

Every chapter has something to offer to assist in acknowledging what is necessary when preparing for a natural birth. It also de-mystifies and questions the fear surrounding birth today and covers so many important labour and birth issues that are often overlooked.

It is also about giving birth support people a clear understanding of their vital role, so they too feel empowered and able to assist more efficiently with less interference. Here is a glimpse into a few of the chapter topics - Planning for the big day - it is never too early to plan ahead - The importance of being physically fit - Understanding the power of pregnancy and labour hormones - What women need to be aware of when choosing to use an opiate pain relief - Avoiding the fear-tension-pain syndrome - OFP - Optimal Foetal Position makes a labour of difference - Changing the birthing room to suit your needs and progress your labour - What are the benefits of having a natural childbirth? - Natural pain-relief methods- what choices do you have? - Preparing for your Marathon or Sprint! - Choosing and educating your birth support people - Choosing the right birth support or doula for you - What do you do when labour starts? - Established labour means you are on your labour journey - The perineum - how to stretch it, look after it and avoid an episiotomy or tear - The arrival of your cherub - what happens next? - Breastfeeding - the nectar from the gods!