title: Research summaries for normal birth.
abstract: In this column, the author summarizes four research studies that further support the benefits of normal birth. The topics of the studies address the positive influence of vaginal birth and breastfeeding on newborns' immune systems; perineal management techniques that may reduce genital tract trauma at birth; predictive factors of the cesarean-surgery rate among low-risk, nulliparous women; and the important role of breastfeeding in alleviating pain among newborns undergoing painful procedures.
authors.affiliation: AMY ROMANO is a certified-nurse midwife. She is also the Web site editor of the Lamaze Institute for Normal Birth ( www.normalbirth.lamaze.org ).
authors.forename: Amy M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Romano