Penny Simkin's Teaching Library

Short videos from one of the most respected voices in evidence-based birth education.

Penny Simkin — physical therapist, childbirth educator, doula, co-founder of DONA International, and author of The Birth Partner — has taught generations of parents and birth workers how to cope with labor, support the birthing person, and heal afterward. These are her own public videos, embedded here so you can watch without leaving Labor Lens.

The 3 Rs, coping with pain, and the difference between pain and suffering.

The Essence of Coping in Labor

Penny's classic on the 3 R's — Relaxation, Rhythm, and Ritual.

Watch on YouTube ↗

Comfort Measures — The 3 Rs & Slow Breathing

A scene from her Comfort Measures film showing slow breathing with a couple.

Watch on YouTube ↗

The Code Word — Protecting Your Pain Plan

A simple way for partners to honor your wishes around pain relief.

Watch on YouTube ↗

Singing to the Baby

A gentle ritual for connection during pregnancy and early parenting.

Watch on YouTube ↗

Videos © Penny Simkin, embedded from her public YouTube channel. Labor Lens has no affiliation with Penny Simkin or her estate — we share her teaching because it helps people understand their choices.

Educational only — not a substitute for your care team. If a video no longer plays, it may have been removed by the channel; use the "Watch on YouTube" link to check.