This practical and positive companion guide provides women with detailed physical and mental exercises to practise through pregnancy and birth. Working chronologically from the time when a woman may not even be pregnant but hopes to conceive in the near future, right through to the birth itself, the guide provides a comprehensive exercise programme for relaxation, combating morning sickness, stage fright in the last few weeks of pregnancy and for strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. Illustrated with line drawings taken from life' both in the exercise classes which Paddy O'Brien runs, and at the time of the birth itself, BIRTH AND OUR BODIES helps mothers to stay in touch with a body, and in charge of it, when it seems in danger of being taken over by the baby. So, as well as maintaining and strengthening your muscles you get stronger and more supple emotionally. This is a pocket-sized companion, easy to use at home, or at work it encourages the participation of partners and can be used too whenever you have time to yourself.