5. Major Childbirth Philosophies
Couples often wonder if one type of
childbirth method is better than another. Any method can be the right
one for a couple, but it’s best for partners to agree on the method. If
the woman chooses a method that involves her partner greatly and the
partner isn’t willing or able to provide that level of involvement, it
could lead to disappointment and anxiety.
There are three major
childbirth-preparation methods/philosophies—Lamaze, Bradley and Grantly
Dick-Read. Each philosophy offers its own techniques and methods. Other
childbirth methods are also taught; see the discussion below.
Lamaze is the oldest technique of
childbirth preparation. Through training, it conditions a mother to
replace unproductive laboring efforts with effective ones. It
emphasizes relaxation and breathing during labor and delivery. Partners
are an important part of Lamaze classes.
Bradley classes teach the Bradley
method of relaxation and inward focus. Teachers place strong emphasis
on relaxation and deep abdominal breathing to make labor more
comfortable. Classes begin when pregnancy is confirmed and continue
until after birth. Bradley class members have often decided they do not
want to use any type of medication for labor-pain relief.
Lynne asked friends
for suggestions for a pediatrician, and she and her partner, Ian,
finally decided on one. They wanted to meet her before the baby was
born. They weren’t prepared for the experience. Lynne had been used to
reading a magazine in the relative peace and quiet of my waiting room.
The pediatrician’s waiting room was very different. In one corner, a
new mom was trying unsuccessfully to change a diaper. In another, two
brothers fought over a book while their mom talked to another mom.
Lynne and Ian were beginning to think they were in the wrong place when
they were called to meet the pediatrician. They immediately felt at
ease with Dr. Summers, who was busy but seemed competent and
approachable. They were able to ask questions; when they left the
office, they felt good about the choice they’d made. But they were sure
it would take awhile to get used to the waiting room!
Grantly Dick-Read is a method that
attempts to break the fear-tension-pain cycle of labor and delivery
through education. These classes were the first to include fathers in
the birth experience.
In addition to the three major childbirth
methods described above, other methods are also practiced. Marie
Mongan, a hypnotherapist, used the work of Dr. Grantly Dick-Read to
develop hypnobirthing. She believes if you’re not afraid, pain is reduced or eliminated, so anesthetics during labor are unnecessary.
Physical therapist Cathy Daub is the founder of Birth Works Childbirth Education.
The goal of Birth Works is to help women have more trust and faith in
their ability to give birth and to help build self-confidence. Classes
are taught once a week for 10 weeks and may be taken any time during
pregnancy. Some suggest you take them before you get pregnant or during
your first trimester.
Birthing from Within was developed
by Pam England, a midwife. She believes birth is a rite of passage, not
a medical event. Classes center on self-discovery. Pain-coping measures
are intended to be integrated into daily life, not just used for labor.
ICEA, ALACE and CAPPA
are three associations that share a similar philosophy. They believe in
helping women trust their bodies and gain the knowledge necessary for
making informed decisions about childbirth. The International
Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) most commonly certifies
hospital and physician educators. The Association of Labor Assistants
and Childbirth Educators (ALACE) and the Childbirth and Postpartum
Professional Association (CAPPA) usually offer independent classes.
Each of these groups teaches the stages of labor and coping techniques.
Class series vary in length.
6. Choosing Your Class
At around 20 weeks of pregnancy, begin
looking into classes offered in your area. You may have to sign up
weeks before the class begins. You should start classes by the
beginning of the third trimester (about 27 weeks). Plan to finish at
least a few weeks before your due date.
Childbirth classes are offered in many
settings. Most hospitals that deliver babies offer prenatal classes
on-site. Labor-and-delivery nurses or midwives often teach the classes.
Classes are not only for first-time
pregnant women. If you have a new partner, if it has been a few years
since you’ve had a baby, if you have questions or if you would like a
review of labor and delivery, consider taking classes. Classes may also
be offered for women without a partner, such as a woman whose partner
is away, as in the military, or for a single woman.
Ask your healthcare provider to
recommend classes in your area. He or she knows what is available.
Friends can also be good sources, or check Childbirth Education for your area on the Internet. Some insurance companies and HMOs offer partial or full reimbursement for fees.
