In Labor: Women and Power in the Birthplace

by Barbara Katz Rothman

Analyzes from a feminist perspective childbirth in America and why women are not in control of it.

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1982

Reviews

[Tope · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive introductory work on the medicalization of childbirth in America. Rothman occasionally overstates her case, but she convincingly argues that hospital births in the U.S. are characterized by over-medicalization, routine and unnecessary technological interventions, inadequate attention to and support for the laboring mother, and a dramatic imbalance of power in favor of doctors (as opposed to mothers). In short, pregnancy and childbirth are treated by medical professionals as a disease and a medical emergency, respectively. Definitely worth a read for couples who are expecting.