yourself on the river and out of control, take your baby to a chiropractor (ideally one that is also trained in craniosacral therapy), as soon as possible. Early warning signs of underlying birth trauma include nursing difficulties, a hyperactive gag reflex, sleep problems (too much or too little), excessive crying, esophageal reflux, difficulty swallowing, colic, tight neck muscles, or any unexplainable problem they are exhibiting. The treatment for babies is so subtle you may not be aware the doctor is doing anything at all. Trust me, in most cases, you will see the dramatic effects almost immediately.

By the way, your pediatrician or specialist may ease your concerns about your child's discomfort by saying, "Let's just wait and see what develops." This is a good idea, from their perspective, since the options for medical treatment generally involve invasive techniques (i.e., drugs and surgery). Chiropractors look at your child differently. To us, tiny bones are ossifying, blood flow is being restricted, and the brain is being starved of nutrient exchange from restrictions within the craniosacral system. We can't afford to "wait and see," and luckily, all of our options for treatment are gentle and non-invasive. Birth trauma issues can be addressed at any age in life, but it is better to catch it early, before the effects begin to tax the body's innate ability to adapt.

Recommendations for a Safer Birth
Unless a baby's life is in obvious danger, give him the freedom to work his way into the world at his own pace. Allow him to start and stop labor as he maneuvers the pathway. If his water breaks before the onset of contractions, give him time to get into position and activate labor on his own. Keep in mind that it could take him three to five days to get molded and in position. Vital signs should be monitored regularly, but internal examinations that can introduce bacteria into the canal should be avoided. (A mother who remains at home during early labor will be subjected only to the bacteria she is resistant to, while avoiding the unfamiliar pathogens in the hospital.)

If the water doesn't break spontaneously, keep it intact for protection and reduction of pain. Learn to respect human physiology. Work with a baby and not against him. Remember, he, too, is going through an emotional, physical, and spiritual transformation.

Last of all, remember that a baby was created from the most powerful egg released and from the strongest sperm in the bunch. He has conquered all of the obstacles to life and knows what he has to do. Trust him and trust in the power of Innate.

There are six things to remember when you're in labor. . .

1. Have Fun.

2. Eat something substantial.