The Evolution of Mind-Body Practice in Obstetrics

Though obstetrics has been dominated by medical procedures for decades, the medical paradigm has been shifting, particularly through the inclusion of mind-body medicine, and new forms of childbirth practice and care have been evolving. Mind-body practice in childbirth is seen to have developed in three distinct stages, from the mid-nineteenth century to the present. Prenatal mind-body practices have emerged, supported by tra-ditional meditation science and extensive contemporary research. Integral childbirth care is defined, based on a more complete model of the woman’s body and potential in childbirth and a more complete understanding of ma-ternal-infant health in the crucial perinatal period.