What to read, watch and listen to when preparing for a home birth

Top 10 Books, Podcasts, and Films to Prepare for a Home Birth in Germany

Preparing for a home birth is an exciting and transformative journey. Educating yourself is a key step to feeling empowered, confident, and ready for this incredible experience. Here’s a curated list of books, podcasts, and films to help you prepare for a home birth, with a special focus on the context of giving birth in Germany.

Top 4 Books to Read

1. “Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth” by Ina May Gaskin
   Why It’s Helpful: Written by one of the most renowned midwives in the world, this book celebrates the natural process of childbirth and provides practical advice on navigating labor without fear. Perfect for understanding the beauty of physiological birth.
   Tip: Many German midwives recommend this book for its empowering message.

2. “HypnoBirthing: The Mongan Method” by Marie F. Mongan
   Why It’s Helpful: HypnoBirthing teaches techniques for relaxation and managing pain, making it an excellent resource for home births.
   German Context: Many HypnoBirthing classes are offered in Germany, and this book is a great companion to those sessions.

3. “The Positive Birth Book” by Milli Hill
   Why It’s Helpful: This book is a practical guide to taking control of your birth experience, with plenty of advice on home birth. It’s easy to read, packed with real stories, and incredibly empowering.

4. “Birthing from Within” by Pam England and Rob Horowitz
   Why It’s Helpful: This holistic guide combines practical tips with creative exercises to help you prepare for the emotional and spiritual aspects of birth, making it a wonderful resource for home birth preparation.

Top 3 Podcasts to Listen To

1. “Birthful Podcast” by Adriana Lozada
   Why It’s Helpful: This podcast offers evidence-based insights and features interviews with doulas, midwives, and parents. It covers a wide range of topics, from labor techniques to creating a birth plan for a home birth.

2. “The Great Birth Rebellion” by Mel and B
   Why It’s Helpful: Focused on evidence-based maternity care, this podcast challenges conventional thinking about birth and provides valuable insights into planning a natural and empowering experience.

3. “Happy Homebirth” by Katelyn Fusco
   Why It’s Helpful: Dedicated to home birth stories, this podcast is inspiring and educational, offering practical tips and heartfelt narratives that resonate with anyone planning a home birth.

Bonus german language podcast

1. “Die friedliche Geburt” by Kristin Graf
   Why It’s Helpful: This German-language podcast focuses on HypnoBirthing techniques, relaxation, and mindfulness for a peaceful birth. It’s ideal for anyone seeking practical, evidence-based tools for home birth and the German go-to hypnobirthing resource.

Top 3 Films to Watch

1. “The Business of Being Born” (2008)
   Why It’s Helpful: This documentary, produced by Ricki Lake, highlights the benefits of midwife-led care and home birth. It’s an eye-opening exploration of the natural birth movement.

2. “Microbirth” (2014)
   Why It’s Helpful: This documentary focuses on the microbiome’s role during natural childbirth and breastfeeding. It’s scientifically rich and relevant for understanding the long-term health benefits of natural birth.
   German Context: Many midwives in Germany emphasize the microbiome’s importance, making this film particularly relevant.

3. “Unsere Geburt – Hebammen in Deutschland”
   Why It’s Helpful: This German documentary sheds light on midwifery and birth practices in Germany, providing valuable insights into the local system and the role of midwives in home births.

Bonus Resources

Workshops and Classes in Germany

• HypnoBirthing Courses: Offered in most major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Cologne. These classes often complement the HypnoBirthing book and podcasts. I also offer personalised Hypnobirthing courses - get in touch if this is of interest.

• Geburtsvorbereitungskurse (Birth Preparation Courses): Many midwives in Germany offer home-birth-specific courses that are covered by insurance.

Online Forums and Blogs

• NetMoms and Eltern.de: German-language parenting forums where you can connect with other parents planning home births.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a home birth in Germany is about more than logistics; it’s about building confidence, educating yourself, and embracing the journey ahead. These books, podcasts, and films provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you feel ready for the big day.

Take time to explore these resources and let them guide you toward a calm, empowered, and joyful home birth experience!