title: Research summaries for normal birth.
abstract: In this column, the authors summarize four research studies that further support the benefits of normal birth. The topics of the studies include the association of cesarean birth with an increased risk of neonatal death; the use of acupuncture and self-hypnosis as effective pain-management strategies; factors associated with amniotic-fluid embolism; and the positive influence of continuous support by lay doulas on obstetric outcomes for low-income women.
authors.affiliation: AMY ROMANO is a certified-nurse midwife. She is also the Perinatal Research and Advocacy Coordinator for the Lamaze Institute for Normal Birth ( www.lamaze.org ). HENCI GOER is an award-winning author of two books on evidence-based maternity care. She is a resident expert for the Lamaze Institute for Normal Birth and moderates the online Normal Birth Forum ( www.lamaze.org ).
authors.forename: Amy M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Romano
authors.forename: Henci
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Goer