Free Mother-Friendly Documents and Downloads
The following documents are available for free downloads as PDF files. Permission is granted to freely reproduce in whole or in part along with complete attribution as indicated on the PDF itself.  Please Contact Us if you place any of our documents on your website, so that we can keep you updated when new versions are available.

The Risks of Cesarean Section Fact Sheet & Expectant Mother’s Checklist (PDF)
Cesarean section is the most common major surgical procedure performed in the United States.  The Coalition for Improving Maternity Services (CIMS) is concerned about the dramatic increase and ongoing overuse of cesarean section.  The surgical procedure poses short- and long-term health risks to mothers and infants, and a scarred uterus poses risks to all future pregnancies and deliveries.  For these reasons, CIMS recommends that cesarean surgery be reserved for situations when potential benefits clearly outweigh potential harms.  This new resource includes an important companion document, “A Checklist for Expectant Mothers to Read During Pregnancy.”

The Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative (MFCI)
The CIMS document that defines the ten steps of Mother-Friendly care. A must-read for all childbirth professionals, advocates and families. Read more about the history of the MFCI at About CIMS.

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Evidence Basis for the Ten Steps of Mother-Friendly Care in the Journal of Perinatal Education, 2007, Issue 16, a Special Supplement [PDF]
The result of a 2 year research project by a team of maternity care experts, this important work reviews 15 years worth of scientific studies which and found that the evidence supports complying with each aspect of the ten steps of Mother-Friendly Care.

Mother-Friendly Childbirth: Highlights of the Evidence [PDF]
This is a summary of the Evidence Basis document (above) contributed by consumer groups BirthNetwork National and Citizens for Midwifery that makes it possible to see at a glance the results of the research in a easy to comprehend, quick presentation. Great for educating others!

Having a Baby? Ten Questions To Ask
Ten questions for prospective mothers to ask of their chosen birth center, hospital, or home birth service. These ten issues will help you determine whether the people assisting you in your birth support the philosophy of Mother-Friendly care.

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Are Your Birth Classes Mother-Friendly? [PDF]
Are you up-to-date with the latest research? Does the information you provide your classes empower them to make informed decisions about their care and the care of their babies? The questions in this document are based on the user-friendly version of the Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative, Having A Baby? Ten Questions To Ask.

Is Your Doula Practice Mother-Friendly? [PDF]
Are you up-to-date with the latest research? Does the information you provide your clients empower them to make informed decisions about their care and the care of their babies? The questions in this document are based on the user-friendly version of the Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initative, Having A Baby? Ten Questions To Ask.

Fact Sheet: Breastfeeding is Priceless
This fact sheet lists the short- and long-term benefits of breastfeeding for babies, premature infants, children, and mothers. The fact sheet also covers the costs of not breastfeeding. Includes references.

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