Pregnancy is a time of surprise and chaos, delight and frustration, fatigue and empowerment. In the middle of change and a variety of sensations, we want the selection of a childbirth method to be simple. Fortunately, choosing the right class is more straightforward when we know what’s most important to us.
Lamaze Technique
Known for its rhythmic breathing technique, this approach is used the most in the United States. We can select this method regardless of what we think about the use of medicine during labor. The Lamaze Technique has changed since its development in the 1950s. It now consists of the “Six Healthy Birth Practices,” including allowing labor to begin on its own, moving around during labor, and following the body’s urge to push. This method is best for mothers who want to spend more time learning about the facts of pregnancy and giving birth.
The Bradley Method
One difference between this and other methods is the emphasis on training the mother’s partner to lead her through the birth. Another important point is that this method assumes a birth without medication for pain or medical intervention. This is the top method for mothers who want the fullest participation from their partners and don’t want to leave the coaching skills of those partners to chance.
HypnoBirthing
This method prepares mothers for a smoother pregnancy, labor, and delivery through the use of self-hypnosis. Moms also learn about the baby’s consciousness in the womb and how to parent the baby even before birth. Instead of becoming tense and fearful, we can learn to turn inward more and think of pain in positive terms, such as sensation rather than extreme discomfort. With this in mind, we don’t necessarily need to have a partner during the birth. This is an excellent method for mothers who enjoy using affirmations and meditation techniques.
Birthing From Within
This method frames birth as a cultural rite of passage and is about self-discovery. It’s a mindset rather than a collection of techniques to use during labor. In fact, along with giving information, instructors spend time encouraging us to have self-compassion and let go of outcomes. It incorporates elements such as journaling, art therapy, and group discussions of beliefs about things like birth and parenting. This is the best method for women who prefer a holistic approach.
Conclusion
Do we know who we’d like our primary birthing coach to be? Do we even want a coach? How do we feel about pain medication? Do we prefer an emphasis on the facts around birth? Would we like self-expression to be a big part of our lessons about childbirth? How open are we to affirmations and mindfulness techniques? Selecting a childbirth class becomes simpler when we understand what we value when having a baby.
