Nowadays pregnancy is most often viewed as a disease process that must be managed or fixed by modern medicine. Read about the trouble with repeat Cesarian sections and how it is linked to premature births. This unfortunate perspective contributes to anxiety and depression during pregnancy. However, medical anthropology and common sense tell us that pregnancy is not a disease, but a distinct and transformative time in a woman's life. This phase requires specific knowledge and tools to secure the healthiest outcome for both the expectant mother and the new life she is bringing into the world.

Fortunately, there are natural health care choices, such as pregnancy acupuncture, prenatal massage therapy and general lifestyle adjustments (including nutrition, exercise, postural awareness and relaxation techniques) that pregnant women can make to assist themselves and their developing baby. These choices give women the opportunity to take a more active role in their own health (and that of their baby), rather than becoming a passive participant in their own pregnancy.

Continuous and active involvement of the expectant mother in her own health care and treatment is crucial. The more knowledgeable she becomes about pregnancy and her own body's responses and changes, the more control she gains over her own health. The empowerment and self-confidence that results from being an active participant also has profound effects on the ability of the woman to cope with the pain and anxiety surrounding labor and delivery.