"Can I just say 'No' to an episiotomy? Do I have to give birth on my back? I want to be free to walk around in labor. I don't want to be hooked up to an IV. I believe in skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth." Do you ever feel like what you want - or don’t want - in your birth experience is at risk of not happening for you? This episode spells out the research on various Evidenced Based Birth practices so you can feel confident and comfortable in the choices you make around your birth experience. Grab a pen and your partner, and listen in because you don’t want to miss this essential information.The evidence presented and statements made in this episode apply to normal, healthy, low-risk pregnant women seeking a low-intervention birth.  The statements made are supported by the American College of Nurse-Midwives. The commentary around the statements are our own opinions and are not medical advice. American College of Nurse MidwivesACOG Committee Opinion #766: Approaches to limit intervention during labor & birthSkin to skin care in preterm infantsOptimal Care in Childbirth: The Case for a Physiologic Approach* * * * * * * * * *If you enjoyed this episode of the Down To Birth Show, please share with your pregnant and postpartum friends!Between episodes, connect with us on Instagram @DownToBirthShow to see behind-the-scenes production clips and join the conversation by responding to our questions and polls related to pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood. You can reach us at Contact@DownToBirthShow.com or call (802) 438-3696 (802-GET-DOWN). We are always happy to hear from you and will strive to feature your questions and comments on upcoming shows.You can sign up for online and in-person HypnoBirthing childbirth classes for pregnant couples taught by Cynthia Overgard, as well as online breastfeeding classes and weekly postpartum support groups run by Cynthia & Trisha at HypnoBirthing of Connecticut. Please remember we don’t provide medical advice, and to speak with your licensed medical provider related to all your healthcare matters. Thanks so much for joining in the conversation, and see you next week!Postpartum Soothe Postpartum Soothe™ is 100% organic. An herbal tincture for pads toward a safer, easier recovery.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/cynthiaovergard)