Welcome to Understanding Research!

Understanding Research is designed to be a simple resource for birth professionals who want to learn to read the academic literature about birth. Here you'll find information on how to find what is out there and understand what you read. This site is a constant work in progress, so please use the "contact Andrea" link above if you have any suggestions or can't find an answer you need.

So where do I start?

I get this question a lot! It really depends on what you need. If you are looking for information on a particular topic, start on the "databases" page, where you will find links to places to search. You may want to read the article "Using the Right Keywords" before you begin. If you just want to raise your awareness of what is currently happening in research, visit the "Updates" page to learn about places you can go to stay current, or click on "The Buzz" to see a few of the bigger ones.

Please use the links above to browse the site, and don't forget to check the glossary for any words that are not familiar. I would love to hear from you with any questions or comments. Thanks!

Text & photos copyright Andrea Lythgoe. All rights reserved