Lucy was conceived in July 2013, 36 weeks before delivery. Family discovered daughter had neural tube defect called anencephaly. Pregnancy was challenging with morning sickness and high blood pressure
Natural birth means spontaneous labour without medical intervention. UK medical organizations agree on definition including no drugs or forceps. Not suitable for twins, low pregnancy weight, or breech position
Water births can be done at home, hospital, or birth center. Warm water helps soothe labor muscles. Birth centers and hospitals now offer specialized birthing tubs
Childbirth moved from home to hospital, losing natural home-birth experience. International Association of Professional Birth Photographers organizes annual competitions. Birth photography has become art form with strong professional membership
Japanese women traditionally leave city to stay with parents during pregnancy. American women typically don't have this tradition. Japanese doctors expect mothers to return to USA for birth
Author was high-risk pregnant with gestational diabetes. She was only 37 weeks pregnant when she went into labour. Doctors warned about potential complications but didn't explain risks