The Politics of Birth
Sheila Kitzinger
2005
Overview:
In this powerful and provocative work, Sheila Kitzinger explores how birth has become a battleground shaped by institutional power, medicalisation, and cultural control. Drawing on decades of advocacy, research, and lived experience, she highlights the importance of informed choice, bodily autonomy, and respectful care — calling for a transformation in the way society treats birthing women.
Why It’s Included:
The Politics of Birth is essential reading for anyone passionate about birth rights and justice. Kitzinger’s blend of feminist insight, anthropological lens, and deep empathy aligns beautifully with gentle, mother-centred care philosophies. This book helps readers understand how systemic forces influence birth — and how to reclaim it.
Who It’s For:
Highly recommended for birth workers, activists, educators, and anyone questioning the dominant medical paradigm of childbirth. Also valuable for expectant parents seeking a critical, empowering view of birth systems and their own decision-making
“I have complete bias here: the birth featured on the cover is my son, caught during my third caeserean birth. I had the privlege of spending several days with Sheila during her 2003 visit to Melbourne. I shared with her the series of photos taken and the following year she sought my consent to use them in her new book.
Gorgeous infant notwithstanding, this is a powerful book. ”
Further Reading:
A Passion for Birth – Sheila Kitzinger
Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering – Sarah J. Buckley
