ABSTRACTS OF FEATURE ARTICLES

The Microwave Generation
by Sarah Goldstein
Over the decades, we have developed from the "work ethic" generation to a generation in which more value is placed on things into which we put little effort: the microwave generation. Are we better off?

Preparing for Multiples: The Prenatal Needs of Couples Expecting Twins, Triplets, and More!
by Cindy Carter
For parents expecting more than one baby, the prenatal, antepartum, and postpartum experiences have special characteristics that differ from the singletons. This article addresses these different educational needs for parents preparing for multiple blessings.

Postmodern Implications of Modern Childbirth
by Jane S. Savage
Modernism overtly and covertly conveys an illusion of right answers, of one way to give birth. Truth be told, there is no right way to give birth. As childbirth educators, we must continue to encourage expectant parents to ask questions, to investigate the literature, and to recognize the politics behind decisions that are made.

Postpartum Depression: Bridging the Gap Between Medicalized Birth and Social Support
by Joanne Goldbort
Having a baby is generally considered one of the happiest times in a woman's life. However, approximately ten percent of women experience a downward spiraling event known as postpartum depression. Research demonstrates that early screening, intervention, and treatment can prevent this malady from having a devastating effect on the woman, her family, and the community. Social support is one of many key contributing factors in how a woman interprets her birthing experience, with adverse birthing experiences contributing to postpartum depression. In this paper, the author examines the role of the doula, and how her support during the perinatal period may contribute to a positive outcome in a medicalized birthing arena, and as a consequence of a doula's support, postpartum depression may be minimized or prevented.

Nursing Students Providing Prenatal Education to Pregnant Teens: An Innovative Approach to Adolescent Childbirth Education
by Faun G. Ryser and Elizabeth King
Providing prenatal education that is both relevant and meaningful to pregnant teenagers has always been a challenge for childbirth educators. Student nurses can be trained to not only provide education but to also serve as mentors and role models for teens who may have little support within their families and friends.

What Did You Learn From Childbirth Classes? Assessing Outcomes
by Ann P. Lampron
How often have you heard young pregnant women stating that they didn't need childbirth classes? Their opinion most likely comes from their peers and not from professional studies. Outcomes from attendance in childbirth classes need to be measured. This article looks at a model for defining outcomes from childbirth classes.

When There Are Two Mommies...
by Tamara Adkins-Bates
Most childbirth educators have worked with heterosexual married or partnered couples, single women, birth mothers, and adoptive parents. Fewer educators have had the opportunity to assist at births involving same-sex couples, surrogate mothers, and others whose lifestyles do not fit the "norm." The author presents suggestions for educators who are beginning to work with lesbian couples.

The Role of the Public Health Nurse in Prenatal Education in Woodstock, Ontario, Canada
by Mary Bell and Barbara Ledgley
The public health nurses in Woodstock, Ontario, are able to provide continuity of care to families throughout the perinatal period. Nurses meet expectant mothers at prenatal health fairs and prenatal classes. The nurses follow-up with new parents within forty-eight hours after discharge to offer a home visit. Parents are then invited to visit well baby clinics for further interaction with the public health nurses and fellow new mothers. Clients with more complex needs will be offered regular follow-up visits in their homes.

Family Planning Education and the Childbirth Educator
by Ann Kane
Most educators are eager to answer questions or make referrals for individuals seeking more information regarding family planning methods. Few educators realize how instrumental they can be in helping couples find a family planning method that fits the context of their special relationship.

Prenatal Education Programs: Special Challenges
by Andrea Lesniak Schaffer
Providing prenatal education to expectant parents who face special challenges present more challenges for the educators. The author relates the development of an education program designed to meet the needs of these special clients.

COLUMNS

Statistics
by Dale E. King
Adult Intelligence and Breastfeeding

Audio Visual Review
by Margery Simchak
Open Minds to Birth

Nutrition News
by Dvorka Monti
Not So Common Nutrition Messages for Your Childbirth Education Classes

International Focus
by Susan E. Elliott
Genetics

Information Update
by Judy O'Connor

Certification Update
ICEA-Sponsored Alternate Contact Hours