GENTLE BIRTH HEALS MOTHER EARTH

Ibu Robin Lim is a fierce advocate for human rights in childbirth, a leading authority on women’s reproductive health, a champion of social change, a respected author and speaker. As a Filipina-Micronesian–American midwife and founder of nonprofit Bumi Sehat Foundation, she has been at the forefront of issues affecting women, children, and the environment for more than 33 years.

“By protecting mothers and newborns at childbirth, we may build peace — one baby, one mother, one family at a time.”

— Ibu Robin

Books and Resources

  • Get a digital copy of Ibu Robin’s books and access instantly. Available in PDF now, with e-reader copies coming soon.

  • Access a selection of Ibu Robin’s books for free as digital downloads. Go to the store to peruse free books.

  • Take a closer look at the work of Bumi Sehat by reviewing an annual gratitude report. See the most recent report for 2023 here, or review 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019.

Audio and Visual Content

  • This documentary film follows Ibu Robin’s efforts to protect the smallest citizens of Earth, from beautiful Bali, where terrorist bombings have destroyed the economy, to post-tsunami Aceh. Purchase the film here.

  • View a selection of speeches, profiles and news coverage of Ibu Robin and Bumi Sehat. Go to the videos page to watch.

  • Midwives Ibu Robin Lim and Deborah Flowers talk childbirth, provide insight and reassurance, and answer questions on the mind of every mother and other to be. Listen noon Apple Podcasts.

Products Made With Love

  • Coming soon! Batik baby kimonos, made with love right in Ubud, Bali.

  • Herbal infusions and natural soaps for healthy living. Learn more by visiting the website.

  • Coming soon! A collection of the best photos of moms and babies in Bali and throughout Indonesia. Proceeds are donated to Bumi Sehat.

Courses and Learning

Eat, Pray, Doula

Ibu Robin hosts two in-person retreats annually for birth attendants in Bali. Spaces are limited. Sign up early to secure your spot.

Birth in The Era of Climate Crisis

Watch Ibu Robin’s most popular keynote speech, highlighting her work with moms and babies in the wake of natural disasters.

“I imagine a world in which all humans are born with an intact capacity to love, and I am willing to devote my life to making it happen.”

Peace Begins at Birth

Ibu Robin’s work through Bumi Sehat has brought gentle birth services, medical care, education and and various means of community support to women, children and families in Indonesia and the Philippines. But her tireless education and advocacy for women and children in developing countries, disaster zones, and other underserved populations extends far beyond the reach of the non-profit organization, improving the lives of millions of people. She is a visionary for social change, believing that peace begins at birth.

Prevention

Every day, over 800 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Nearly 94% of these deaths occur in low-resource settings. Access to skilled healthcare during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period could drastically reduce this number.

Saving Lives

Investing in reproductive health saves lives and strengthens communities. Studies show that every dollar spent on reproductive healthcare yields a return of $120 in economic benefits, from healthier mothers and children to increased education and economic opportunities for women.

Reducing Risks

Complications during pregnancy and childbirth are a leading cause of death for adolescent girls in developing countries. Access to comprehensive reproductive health education and services can significantly reduce the risks faced by young mothers, empowering them to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Quality Care

Over 75% of maternal deaths could be prevented with timely access to high-quality care. Simple, cost-effective interventions like skilled birth attendants, emergency obstetric care, and postpartum follow-ups are life-saving measures that remain out of reach for millions.

Crisis Response

Women and children in conflict zones face the highest risks of reproductive health complications. Humanitarian efforts that prioritize reproductive health services for women in crisis settings can drastically improve survival rates and long-term health outcomes.

Healthcare Access

In developing countries, 1 in 3 women do not receive the recommended level of postnatal care. Ensuring women have access to comprehensive postnatal care can help identify and treat complications early, reducing the risk of maternal and infant mortality.