Birth is normal, natural and healthy. The experience of birth profoundly affects women and their families. Women’s inner wisdom guides them through birth. Women’s confidence and ability to give birth are either enhanced or diminished by the care provider and place of birth. Women have a right to give birth free from routine medical interventions. Birth can safely take place in homes, birth centers and hospitals. Childbirth education empowers women to make informed choices in health care, to assume responsibility for their health and to trust their inner wisdom.