Since the late nineteenth century, government and community organisations have produced pamphlets to promote health. Pamphlets available in health and community centres, hospitals and doctors' surgeries, alert the general public to local health services, provide practical information about healthy behaviours, and convey other important health-related messages.

The Powerhouse Museum has a growing collection of material that documents the history of public health and health education in Australia. By examining the nature of advice given in these booklets, it is possible to perceive some of the health and social concerns that prevailed during this period of Australia's history.

Written by Erika Dicker
Assistant Curator, 2007.

The booklet was written by Helen Heardman, a chartered physiotherapist. It was published by E & S Livingstone Ltd, Edinburgh, Scotland and printed by J and J Gray printers in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1952.

Booklet, 'Relaxation and Exercise for Natural Childbirth', paper / metal, written by Helen Heardman, published by E & S Livingstone Ltd, Edinburgh, Scotland, printed by J and J Gray, Edinburgh, Scotland, 1952

A 32 page booklet stapled at the spine and titled 'Relaxation and Exercise for Natural Childbirth'. The booklet has a light green cover with dark blue text. The booklet was authored by Helen Heardman, a chartered Physiotherapist.

Authored: Heardman, Helen;

Published: E & S Livingstone Ltd; Edinburgh, Scotland; 1952

Printed on the cover 'RELAXATION AND / EXERCISE FOR / NATURAL CHILDBIRTH / BY HELEN HEARDMAN / ... / FIRST EDITION / FOURTH REPRINT /...'

2007/135/6

181 mm

123 mm

3 mm