Childbirth Techniques

To help avoid medical intervention during labor, a variety of childbirth techniques are available to help ease the birthing process. In order to ensure a smooth delivery, parents should be prepared for every possible situation. Childbirth techniques aim to help and educate expecting parents on important topics such as labor pains, delivery, and postpartum recovery. This article lists several techniques for you and your partner to consider.

The Alexander Technique

F.M. Alexander (1869-1955), a Shakespearean actor, created this technique after he lost his voice while performing and no other medical treatment solved his problem. Alexander's technique involved proper movement and breathing techniques for sitting, standing and moving which helped restore his voice. These breathing and movement suggestions by Alexander will help you understand and compensate for the bodily changes that are taking place. Even after delivery, the Alexander technique will teach you how to properly lift and carry your child without suffering from poor posture or back pain. For more information visit The American Society for the Alexander Technique

McMoyler

For 21st century moms-to-be, Sarah McMoyler created a realistic and modern day approach to delivering babies. In conjunction with up-to-date medical information, McMoyler's approach also combines the childbirth techniques of the Bradley and Lamaze methods. Her fast-paced courses are great for couples on-the-go who need a crash course in managing labor pains, being flexible during birth, and building confidence. Three key elements to the McMoyler technique include:

• Being realistic; parents should be prepared to have anything ranging from a natural delivery to a high tech birth.
• Nonjudgmental; giving birth is not a contest and the expectant parents' primary concern should be a happy and healthy mother and child.
• Entertaining; McMoyler suggests that educational materials pertaining to birth should be engaging and fun.

For more information, go to The Best Birth.

The Bradley Method

Dr. Robert Bradley developed this childbirth technique in the late 1940's which focuses on a natural approach combined with proper nutrition and prenatal exercise. The Bradley Method was initially nicknamed the Husband-Coached method because it was believed that women had a more positive experience if their husbands were included in the birthing process. For more information, go to The Bradley Method.

Lamaze

The Lamaze technique is widely known for its rhythmic breathing techniques, but Lamaze also emphasizes concentration based on relaxation. This technique will also teach you to use the power of distraction to divert your attention away from your contractions. In classes, you and your partner will learn controlled deep breathing and massaging techniques to also help reduce pain perception even further. Women also learn about labor and birthing positions, communication skills, as well as information about the postpartum period. Over one million babies are born using this method each year. For more information, go to Lamaze International.

Be sure to research each childbirth technique to see which philosophies and methods fit your personal preferences.