It is highly encouraged that participants come into the workshop with a basic knowledge of the normal processes of childbirth.  We suggest the following books as you await your workshop, however they are not required.  If time permits, attending a childbirth education series in your area is recommended.  The DONA Int. training manual is designed to work hand in hand with the book, The Birth Partner, and it’s highly advisable to have a copy of this book (before the workshop if possible) to utilize while working through the manual.

Simkin” The Birth Partner: A Complete Guide to Childbirth for Dads, Doulas and All Other Labor Companions, 4rd edition

Some of Melissa’s favorite books for students include:

• Simkin, Bolding, Keppler, Durham, Whalley: Pregnancy, Childbirth, And the Newborn, 4th edition

• Gabriel, Cynthia: Natural Hospital Birth: The Best of Both Worlds,  2011
   
• Goer, The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth, 1999

• Gaskin, Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, 2003