For Your Eyes
One of the most powerful tools for preparation and empowerment is knowledge. To support you in this journey, I have curated a comprehensive list of some of the most inspiring and educational documentaries and shorts about birth. These films provide a profound exploration of the diverse experiences of childbirth, highlighting the physiological magic of birth, and birth practices, cultures, and philosophies from around the world to celebrate the diverse and beautiful ways in which new life can enter the world, reminding us of the strength and wisdom inherent in every birthing person.
I hope these documentaries and shorts provide valuable insights, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the birthing process. By watching these films, you can gain a deeper understanding of different birthing options and approaches, helping you make informed decisions and feel more confident, informed, and empowered as you embark on this transformative journey. Remember, every birth is unique, and finding the path that feels right for you is important.
Gentle Birth Choices (1993)
“A short film that explores the benefits of choosing a gentle, natural birth, featuring midwives and parents who advocate for this approach.”
Born At Home (2010)
“The Born at Home documentary explores and uncovers the empowering journey of homebirth, shedding light on the often overlooked and misunderstood option that has transformed lives. Born at Home dives into real stories of women navigating birth trauma and examines how a shift in environment and informed choices can reshape the birthing experience. Wisdom is shared from homebirth families, interwoven with evidence-based information from midwives, medical professionals, doulas, researchers, and maternity advocates.”
The Orgasmic Birth Movie (2009)
“Joyous, sensuous, and revolutionary, Orgasmic Birth brings the ultimate challenge to our cultural myths by inviting viewers to see the emotional, spiritual, and physical heights attainable through birth.”
Doula! The Ultimate Birth Companion (2010)
“This docmentary follows three birth and postnatal doulas as they give practical and emotional support to women and their families.”
Birth Story: Ina May Gaskin and The Farm Midwives (2012)
“Forty years ago Ina May led the charge away from isolated hospital birthing rooms, where husbands were not allowed and mandatory forceps deliveries were the norm. Today, as nearly one third of all US babies are born via C-section, she fights to preserve her community’s hard-won knowledge. With incredible access to the midwives’ archival video collection, the film not only captures the unique sisterhood at The Farm Clinic–from its heyday into the present–but shows childbirth the way most people have never seen it–unadorned, unabashed, and awe-inspiring.”
Home Birth Stories (2009)
“Gila and Amit, Einav and Sharon, Itahel and Dror, three couples share their homebirth stories. They present their deliberations and their decision making process and their personal conclusion that homebirth is the most favorable birthing option for them. The movie shows various homebirth choices, including waterbirth, squatting, dry land birth, use of a birthing stool, and simply birthing in bed.”
