If you didn’t know that there were options, you’re not alone. Most women have heard of the Lamaze method of childbirth, but there are other choices that can the job done! It’s all a matter of preference. The following is an overview of the four most popular childbirth methods.
The Lamaze Method
By being informed of what exactly is going on with your body during labor, it is believed you won’t be as frightened by what’s happening and you’ll be able to view it all as necessary in order to have a safe and healthy delivery. This is the philosophy behind the Lamaze Method. An informed woman seems to be more in control of the situation, breathing in patterns that carry them through each labor pain. During the last trimester, your doctor will advise you of where and when the local Lamaze classes are being held. Grab your hubby or birthing coach and make the classes a priority. You’ll both appreciate the lessons learned as you pant your way down the path to joy!
The Leboyer Method
It’s not all about you! Childbirth is about the mother and the baby. Frederick Leboyer, who penned the book Birth without Violence in 1975, recommends warming the room where the baby is to be born and using only dim lighting. By mimicking the womb environment, Leboyer believes there is less trauma to the infant during birth. The baby is placed on the mother’s abdomen the moment he is born so that the first warmth and comfort he receives comes directly from her. Another difference that sets the Leboyer method apart from other childbirth methods is the cutting of the umbilical cord, which is not done until pulsations stop. This allows the maximum amount of oxygen to enter the baby’s body.
Following the cutting of the cord, the infant’s back is massaged and he is put into a bath with water warmed to body temperature. A word of caution comes from many obstetricians who have witnessed an occasional scalding of the baby from the heated water in the bath. Some doctors also do not see the purpose in postponing the cutting of the umbilical cord because the baby is able to get his needed oxygen simply from breathing.
The Bradley Method
Like the Lamaze method, the Bradley method is a popular choice in birthing, perhaps because of its purpose, which is to avoid the need for anesthesia for the mother as she is going through labor and delivery. Abdominal breathing synchronized with uterine contractions results in relaxation. Specific exercises are practiced ahead of time for muscle development.
In order to experience success with this method, it is essential that her coach is properly trained to assist her with her breathing and to help her focus her thoughts on positive and pleasant things as she proceeds through labor.
The Reed Method
The Reed method’s focus is on overcoming the fear of pain. This is achieved through educating mothers about their anatomy and physiology. Knowledge of what labor and delivery entail also helps relieve anxiety and results in a more positive birthing experience for the mother.
A physical fitness program is accompanied by relaxation training and breathing exercises, which is thought to better equip the mom for labor and delivery. The father’s involvement is also essential.
Criticism has surrounded the Reed method due to the high standards and the pressure on a woman to deliver her baby without the aid of any drugs. Women who have run into problems with delivery and have required medication tend to feel like failures if they had prepared for childbirth adhering to the Reed method.
This is your body, your baby, and your birthing experience. Whichever method you choose needs to be one that you are totally comfortable with. Everyone seems to have advice for you, but you have to make this choice yourself. You’re about to experience something that is too wonderful for words. Choose wisely and cherish the moment.
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