Brett Iimura and Kalli Matsuhashi are birth educators
from the United States. Both women had their first baby in Japan, and were confused
by the differences in language, culture and the medical system. Based on their
experiences, they have started a maternity class for expectant mothers from other
countries and mixed couples to teach useful information about giving birth in
Japan. In Europe and North America, anesthesia is commonly used for painless
delivery, but in Japan natural delivery methods are the norm. One of Brett and
Kalli's tasks is to have participants in the class understand Japanese approaches
to childbirth. As they explain, “We want to respect the women and value their
decisions.” “Weﾕd like them to think and decide for themselves.” As usual, Brett Iimura and
Kalli Matsuhahsiﾕs class is full of pregnant women and their partners
today.
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