Birth is often perceived as a purely physical process. In truth it is not an isolated event, but part of an amazing journey, which begins with the love and passion of conception, continues through pregnancy and the wonder of birth, and into the early years of childhood. It is both physical and deeply emotional. Birth is a rite of passage, a powerful and meaningful experience which connects women to their children forever more. Women should have the centre stage in the birth process, empowered and encouraged by those close to them, so that they may experience birth joyfully and begin motherhood with a positive outlook.