Scientologese - Silent Birth refers to a birthing method preferred by some members of the Church of Scientology.

A silent birth involves delivering a baby in a completely silent, calm environment, without drugs. This is believed to prevent the formation of "engrams," or harmful psychological impressions, in a newborn infant.

According to Church founder L Ron Hubbard, engrams are impressions formed in the brain by traumatic experiences which negatively affect a person's psyche until expunged through auditing. Silent birth is supposed to prevent engrams from being formed during a critical period.

During a silent birth, all sounds are kept at an absolute minimum- speaking, whispering, and even music are discouraged, and anesthetic drugs are avoided. This silence is maintained for a period of seven days.

A great number of silent births are attended by midwives who are often Scientologists themselves, and accustomed to the process.

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