I was just wondering if anyone has read any good books on Lamaze/childbirth. While I do plan to have an epidural, I would really like to hold off until fairly late in the labor stage (maybe at 6-7cm??). My OB said that Lamaze can be very beneficial, even if you plan to use pain medication.

The problem is that since I'll be doing rotations (my O.B. rotation, actually) until close to my due date, it would be difficult to attend classes. For those of you with experience, are the books beneficial, or is it the class atmosphere that is most important for learning these breathing techniques? Also, how much of a drawback is it that my husband would not know the techniques if I just read about them (I have a feeling I would be reading the book on my own...whereas with classes, he would definitely go, too).

I looked online for DVD's, but the selection was really limited and out-dated. Customer reviews for them were mediocre.

And when should I start learning the technique? I'm 25 weeks along now. Due end of May.