Types of natural childbirth techniques
There are a number of
different natural birthing methods that can be used when trying to have a baby
without any medical intervention. The following methods have been successfully
used for many years to facilitate natural childbirth. If you are a natural
childbirth candidate, take the time to explore different methods to determine
which one works best for you and your partner. It may also be helpful to talk
to your doctor about the various options.
Alexander technique
After learning to
deal with his voice problem, F. M. Alexander (1869–1955) developed a technique
to allow sitting, standing, and moving safely, efficiently, and easily. Anyone,
including a pregnant woman, can learn to relieve muscle tension in order to
increase breathing volume and restore the original balance of the body and
posture.
When your body begins
to experience lower back pain, balance and digestion issues, and shortness of
breath, simple changes to your movements can help relieve these symptoms. When
it's time for labor, you'll be able to breathe better, calm down, focus during
labor, help open your cervix during dilation, and prepare for effective pushing
when your baby is born.
Bradley method
This method, developed
by Dr. Robert Bradley in the late 1940s, helps women give birth naturally, with
little or no medication. Classes focus on proper nutrition and exercise,
relaxation techniques to relieve pain, and the effective participation of a
husband or partner as a coach.
You will also learn
how to adapt to your body and postures that will ease labor pains and prepare
you for the stages of labor. You'll learn how to avoid a caesarean section, how
to breastfeed, and how to discuss birth plans with your doctor.
Hypnosis
In the 1940s, Dr.
Grantley Dick-Read pioneered the use of hypnosis during childbirth to bring a
woman into a state of complete relaxation, where her body muscles could
function as they were designed. Women who use this method report feeling
thoughtful, relaxed, calm, aware, and in control.
Lamaze
Dr. Ferdinand Lamaze
developed this method from Russia with the help of
"Psychoprophylaxis". This method uses distraction during contractions
to reduce the perception of pain and reduce discomfort. On the Lamaze course,
you and your partner will learn controlled deep breathing, massage,
concentration, and how to stay in control during labor.
Water delivery
Giving birth in a hot
bath can help a woman relax. The buoyancy also helps reduce discomfort and
pressure. Some believe that water helps the baby enter the world with less
light, sound and sudden changes.
Water supply is not recommended for women with high-risk pregnancies, and in all cases, preparations should be made for an out-of-water birth if complications arise.