Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to Joyful Birth Wisdom’s FAQ page! Below are answers to our most common questions. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please feel free to contact us.
📘 About the Book
Q: What makes this different from other pregnancy books?
A: The Book of Birth isn’t just another pregnancy guide—it’s a rich tapestry of real-life birth wisdom gathered over 50 years and 3,000 births. It’s a holistic and empowering guide to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. It uses a unique Sevenfold Approach to support emotional, physical, and spiritual preparation. It weaves clinical knowledge, practical tools, holistic insight, and heartfelt storytelling into a grounded, compassionate resource. This book respects every path to birth and empowers you to make informed, confident decisions— grounded in both wisdom and self-trust.
Q: How long is the book?
A: Over 600 pages of rich yet easy to read, experience-based wisdom designed to support you through every stage of pregnancy, birth, and early postpartum. It’s comprehensive and inspiring without being overwhelming, written in a voice that is both deeply knowledgeable and deeply human, and easy to return to whenever you need guidance.
Q: What format is it delivered in?
A: The book is available in two formats: a beautifully designed print edition and a digital PDF version. Both formats are easy to navigate and designed for reflection, learning, and ongoing reference throughout pregnancy and beyond.
👩⚕️ About the Author
Q: What's MariMikel's background and experience?
A: MariMikel has served as a traditional midwife for over 50 years, attending more than 3,000 births. Her work is rooted in safety, respect, and reverence for the birthing process. She brings together decades of clinical excellence, hands-on experience, cross-cultural wisdom, and deep listening to create a resource that speaks to the heart of birthing families and can help them navigate birth with wisdom and confidence.
Q: Can I contact MariMikel with questions?
A: While MariMikel does offer personal consultation services for a fee to clients who are outside of her Austin, TX based area, it is on a case-by-case basis. You are welcome to reach out via email or by phone if you are interested in consultation services. We also welcome you to contact us on social media and are invited to share your journey or reflections, ask general questions, or connect with the broader Joyful Birth Wisdom community. A contact form is also available on the site.
🌀 The Sevenfold Approach
Q: How does the Sevenfold Approach work?
A: The Sevenfold Approach is a unique framework developed by MariMikel to honor the full spectrum of the birth journey—body, mind, heart, spirit, community, history, and intuition. Rather than offering a rigid set of rules, it invites deep personal reflection, practical preparation, and supportive care. It’s not a checklist—it’s a way of preparing for birth that honors your wholeness and your unique journey. It’s a map that respects your inner wisdom and helps guide you toward a joyful, centered birth experience.
🏥 Birth Choices
Q: Is this suitable for all types of births (home, hospital, birth center)?
A: Yes. This book honors all birth choices—natural, medicated, home, hospital, birth center, cesarean, or otherwise. It’s written to meet you where you are and empower you no matter the setting or circumstance. Whether you’re seeking a gentle home birth, a planned hospital birth, or navigating unexpected turns, the insights in The Book of Birth are designed to support, inform, and empower every path.
🛍️ Ordering & Shipping
Q: How long does it take to receive my order?
A: Orders ship within 3–5 business days. Shipping time depends on your selected shipping method and location.
Q: Can I order the book internationally?
A: Yes! We offer international shipping through USPS and UPS. Rates are calculated at checkout.
Q: Do you offer signed copies?
A: Occasionally! Check the product listing to see if signed copies are available.
📥 Digital Products
Q: How do I access my digital download?
A: You’ll receive an email with a download link immediately after purchase. Check your spam folder if it doesn’t arrive.
Q: Can I share the file with others?
A: No. Your purchase grants you a personal-use license only. Sharing or distributing digital products is not permitted.
🔄 Returns & Refunds
Q: Can I return the book if I change my mind?
A: Yes, if it’s within 10 days and in unused condition. See our Refund Policy for details.
Q: Are digital purchases refundable?
A: No, all digital purchases are final.
Q: What if my book arrives damaged?
A: Please contact us within 10 days and we’ll do our best to make it right.
🔒 Privacy and Security
Q: Is my personal information safe?
A: Yes. We take your privacy seriously. Your information is collected only for order processing and communication. Our site is powered by Shopify, which uses secure encryption technology and robust privacy practices.
You can also view our full Privacy Policy, which includes this notice:
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⚠️ Disclaimer
Q: Is this book considered medical advice?
A: No. The Book of Birth is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace medical care or professional guidance from your healthcare provider.
Q: What kind of guidance does the book offer?
A: The book offers professional insight from decades of midwifery experience, but it is not a substitute for individualized clinical care. Every pregnancy is unique, and it’s essential to consult your own medical team when making health-related decisions.
Q: Are there limitations to liability?
A: Yes. Neither the author nor publisher is liable for outcomes related to use of this material. All content is offered in the spirit of empowerment and education, and readers are encouraged to make informed choices in collaboration with their care providers.
📫 Contact
If you need additional support, email us or use the Contact Form.
New Life Birth Services
DBA: Joyful Birth Wisdom
9302 Castlewood Drive
Austin, TX 78748
United States
