Michel Odent, Pioneer of Natural Childbirth Techniques, Dies at 95

Michel Odent, a French obstetrician and pioneer of natural childbirth techniques, passed away at the age of 95. Odent's revolutionary approach to childbirth was centered on the belief that the process should be as natural and undisturbed as possible. He advocated for the creation of homelike delivery rooms and the use of birthing pools, which he believed could help women relax and allow their bodies to guide the process. Odent's innovations challenged the traditional medical model of childbirth, which he felt was too interventionist and disrupted the natural flow of the process. He argued that "human birth cannot work as long as a woman is thinking," emphasizing the importance of creating a calm, supportive environment for the mother. Odent's work had a significant impact on the global movement towards more natural and empowering birthing experiences, and he continued to advocate for his approach until his passing.