Choosing between the Lamaze, Bradley and Dick-Read Methods
Are you thinking about natural labor and delivery? Considering the different approaches to labor and pain management? Wondering which might work best for you?
Here’s a fact to consider: All childbirth methods will teach you important and useful information. You will learn about the signs of labor, what to expect during labor and delivery, and many techniques for managing pain.
So how do you choose? Consider the following facts and think about which method might work best for your needs.
- The Lamaze Method: This method is a planned response to pain that uses a combination of the following techniques:
- Deep cleansing breaths at the beginning and end of each contraction.
- Patterned breathing that varies according to the strength of your contractions.
- The use of a focal point to aid in concentration.
- Light touch massages to decrease the pain response and promote relaxation.
- Breathing techniques to avoid the urge to push until the right time.
- The Bradley Method: This method involves breath control, abdominal breathing, and general body relaxation during labor. It teaches:
- Slow abdominal breathing, which may become more rapid as your contractions intensify.
- Focused breath control while you are in a comfortable position.
- Deep mental relaxation.
- The Grantly Dick-Read Method: This technique is characterized by the following types of breathing:
- Primarily abdominal, with your speed and depth of breathing increasing as uterine contractions increase.
- Rapid chest breathing if abdominal breathing is not sufficient toward the end of labor.
- Panting in the second stage of labor to prevent pushing.
- Breath holding to assist in pushing.
You can register for classes on labor and childbirth at South Lake Hospital or Florida Hospital. Many classes will address the above methods and will be good resources on getting more information.
Important Note: Natural Childbirth isn’t for everyone. Labor is painful and can be unpredictable. Even if you choose a natural labor method, it’s important to keep an open mind about medication and medical intervention.
Remember: You will not know how painful your contractions are going to be until you begin having them!
Also, complications can also alter the trajectory of child birth. While we deeply respect our patients’ desire for a natural delivery, we will always put safety first. The most important goal of delivery is a healthy baby and mother.