reviews of invisible labor

Somerstein . . . . conducts a detailed, intimate investigation into her own experience and that of many other birthing people . . . . It is persuasive and riveting, and I wanted to read every word. — SCIENCE

“Invisible Labor” clearly and compassionately blends scientific research and reportage with the personal stories of Somerstein and other women. Childbirth is painful, but with the right care, it can also ground us in our humanity. —LA TIMES

[E]xcellent . . . .The damning history highlights how sexism and racism have shaped women’s healthcare for centuries. . . .This is a must-read. — PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (starred review)

A sharp account of an agonizing experience of childbirth. . . . The author’s anger over that traumatic experience infuses her investigation of the medical, social, and cultural history of C-sections and, more broadly, of a medical system that denies pregnant women’s autonomy and discredits or ignores women’s pain. . . . [Somerstein] draws on considerable research. . . . A hard-hitting critique of a persistent problem. — KIRKUS REVIEWS

A sobering and deeply interesting look at the history of and debate around C-sections. . . . A provocative and well-researched book. . . . Invisible Labor also makes clear that we still have a long way to go in adequately supporting women's health, and therefore, it is of value to us all. —BOOKPAGE

This inciting, empowering book shows the clear need not just to improve women’s access to health care but also to shift the paradigm about the restrictions placed on reproductive rights. LIBRARY JOURNAL (starred review)

press

“After a Traumatic C-section, Journalist Takes On the Medicalization of Birth,” FRESH AIR

“‘You can’t manifest the birth you want:’ the reality behind the ‘natural birth’ obsession,” THE GUARDIAN

“The Truth About America’s Most Common Surgery,” THE ATLANTIC

“Pulling Back the Curtain on C-sections and Childbirth,” REWIRE

“The Trouble With C-Sections: Rachel Somerstein on ‘Invisible Labor,’” THE NIGHT LIGHT WITH JOSHUA JOHNSON