If an alternative birth is a priority to you or something that you just want to know more about, then this evening's documentary 'The Birth of Being Born' might be of interest.

The film, which is directed by Abby Epstein and executive produced by Ricki Lake, will be screened at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute this evening at 7 p.m.

The event is being hosted by both The Menelik Foundation and Citizens for Better Birth.

The film came about after actress and television host, Ricki Lake gave birth in the bathtub, with the assistance of a midwife, to her second child.

She made the choice for a home birth after she experienced unwanted medical interventions while delivering her first child at a hospital-birthing centre.

Ms Lake succeeded in giving birth on her own terms and the experience was so unexpectedly empowering and life-changing that she felt every woman should know what they could be missing out on.

She then approached filmmaker Abby Epstein to collaborate on a film that would examine birth culture in America, and ask questions about the way American women have babies.

Footage of women having babies punctuates 'The Business of Being Born'. Each experience is unique; all are equally beautiful and equally surprising.

Giving birth is clearly the most physically challenging event these women have ever gone through, but it is also the most emotionally rewarding.

Along the way, Ms Epstein conducts interviews with a number of obstetricians, experts and advocates about the history, culture and economics of childbirth.

The film's fundamental question: should most births be viewed as a natural life process or should every delivery be treated as a potential medical emergency?

Ms Epstein uncovers some surprising answers and her own pregnancy adds a very personal dimension to the documentary.

The film is a must-see movie for anyone even thinking about having a baby!

This film premiered at New York's Tribeca Film Festival and is due to be released in select theatres this month.

The filmmakers have allowed these local screenings to help raise awareness on the topic and support birth organisations on a local level. All proceeds from this advance screening will go to benefit Citizens for Better Birth.

For more information go to www.thebusinessofbeingborn.com or www.healthcoop.bm.

Tickets $15 in advance or $20 at the door are available from the Health Co-op on 236-0336.