Pregnancy and Birth : A Reference Handbook (Contemporary World Issues)

"A thoughtful look at issues confronting pregnant Americans." – Library Journal Pregnancy and Birth: A Reference Handbook provides students with information on how pregnancy and giving are transformative events at individual, family, and societal levels. This handbook is a person-centered reference book on pregnancy and childbirth in the USA. The medicalization of pregnancy and childbirth is a theme; however, primary emphasis is on the historical and contemporary significance of the Midwifery Model of Care and how that can improve outcomes for all. The volume opens with a background and history of the topic, followed by a chapter on related problems, controversies, and solutions. A Perspectives chapter contains essays from a variety of individuals on topics such as surrogacy, doulas, and adoption. The remaining chapters provide students with profiles, data and documents, resources, a chronology, and a glossary. This book is accessible to high school and undergraduate researchers, as well as general-interest readers curious about the topic.