PREPARATION FOR CHILDBIRTH: A LAMAZE GUIDE.

Donna and Rodger Ewy '53. With Forewords by PierreVellay, M.D., and Harvey Cohen, M.D.Boulder, Colo.: Pruett Publishing Com-pany, 1970. 116 pp. Profusely Illustrated.Paperback. $3.50.

This well-written, superbly illustrated paperback can easily be read in less than two hours. Interesting and lucid, it should be readily understood by its intended readers, the expectant couple.

Although generally sensible in its approach, the attempts to "sell" the method, the slight belaboring of the untrained patient, and the emotional overtones are somewhat unattractive. Fortunately these aspects are but a small part of this excellent "guide." The Lamaze method is good and can stand on its own merit.

The Lamaze method endeavors through education to eliminate the fear of the unknown and to reduce tension by muscular and respiratory controls. By learning and practicing them during the prenatal period, a patient in the Lamaze classes tries to establish a conditioned reflex which hopefully will activate the trained response during labor and thus eliminate tension and diffuse the perception of pain. As stated in the guide, "The Lamaze method prepares a woman emotionally, intellectually, psychologically, and physically for childbirth."

The team approach is emphasized, and the husband attends all classes. He learns to keep track of progress during labor, to be a masseur, and to act as a cheering section.

All of these concepts are well presented. Especially valuable is the description of a wife's and husband's roles step by step as labor progresses to ultimate delivery. This guide should be extremely helpful as a text for anyone conducting classes in the Lamaze method and for interested couples in areas where Lamaze classes are unavailable.

Dr. Lyle is Clinical Assistant Professor ofSurgery, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Dartmouth College.