Lamaze Birthing Classes are Designed to Empower Expectant Mothers

The Lamaze birthing technique is probably the most common child birthing technique that is taught  by hospitals and child birth educators.  This birthing technique was created by Dr Fernand Lamaze in the 1940′s to help women cope with the pain of childbirth.  He felt that women were capable of giving birth without the need of medical intervention.  The goal of his techniques was to empower women and teach them how to cope with child birth pain.

Mom’s who use these techniques have better birthing outcomes.  Many women began to fear the birthing process so that when the contractions begin you begin to tense up; instead, of working with your body. As the fear grows with the contractions, you continue to tense up your muscles and you begin to feel pain.  This cycle continues and until the pain becomes unbearable.  Once your pain becomes unbearable, the higher the chances are that you will request medical intervention during your labor process.  However, Lamaze was designed to help break this cycle and to help you relax.  A Lamaze class you will be taught the following information and help prepare you for labor and delivery:

• What to expect while in labor, during delivery, and postpartum?
• Birthing positions that can help you labor the baby down and help progress labor.
• Teach your partner/coach massage techniques to help relax your muscles during labor.
• Learn how to properly breathe through contractions.
• Learn the benefits of using a focal point or points for relaxation.
• Learn how your partner/coach can support you during labor.
• Brush up on communication skills needed for a successful labor.
• Learn what medical interventions are needed if their is a problem during child birth.
• Learn how to breastfeed your baby.

These techniques can be used to prepare you mentally and psychically for childbirth.  I found these techniques very helpful during my second pregnancy.  It helped me to be able to labor naturally with a little bit of IV pain medication.  I went on to deliver my son without an epidural and my recovery was very easy.  I was so more relaxed during his birth even though I was induced.  The contractions came on mildly unlike my first labor experience.

Lamaze Breathing Techniques