Quotes from Elizabeth Davis

Concern with labor's length began in hospital, where a prompt turnover of beds was of practical and financial concern. Next came practitioner impatience: doctors with overbusy schedules or better things to do than wait around for women to give birth wanted to define how long was too long.

You know, Liz, I really got how women can just slip away when they bleed like that. I was already so high from the birth, and it would have been really easy just to check out completely. It was the coziest, warmest, most delicious feeling—it just felt so good." I never forgot this, as only then did I fully appreciate how firmly and passionately the midwife must tell the hemorrhaging mother to stay present.

The mentally oriented woman usually has a detailed birth plan, based on careful research. She goes by the book on diet and exercise but tends to repress her emotions. If asked how she is feeling, she may answer with just a word or two: "Fine" or "I'm okay." Massage, swimming, or yoga can help the mentally oriented mother find physical and emotional release. Self-contained as she is, it may be difficult to forge a close connection with her until labor.

Also suggest they place this message on their answering machine/cell phone and on the front door: "We had the baby, it's a _____, we're fine but tired, enjoying our babymoon. Please call in a few days so we can plan to have you over.