Lamaze Birth Method

The Lamaze childbirth method involves education classes for the mother and partner, preparing them for a natural childbirth experience. Additional techniques were added to the method as medical advancements were made, however the core beliefs had remained solid through the years. The end result, ideally, is a healthy baby and fast recovery for the mother.

History

• The Lamaze Birth Method was developed by Dr. Fernand Lamaze in the 1940s as a method of controlled breathing to reduce pain during childbirth. The method became popular in the United States after Marjorie Karmel wrote the book 'Thank You, Dr. Lamaze' in 1959. The method changed in the 1980s from only controlled breathing to include more features after the advancement of the epidural for pain management.

Function

• The Lamaze method follows several steps to aid in a healthy birth using the philosophy that giving birth is a normal and natural for a woman. The method works with the mother's body and senses, using natural birthing functions already present in the body. Unnecessary interventions will slow the birthing process, increase pain in the mother, and cause additional stress on the baby.

Features

• The features of the Lamaze method are taught in classes available throughout the United States. Steps include having the mother walk and move during labor to aid in positioning the baby for birth, controlled breathing for pain reduction, having a support person or coach during labor, and avoiding unneeded medical interventions or medication. The method also promotes keeping the baby with you after the birth for bonding and breastfeeding.

Techniques

• New techniques were added to the Lamaze method in the 1980s to work in conjunction with breathing techniques. The coach or partner is taught massage and aromatherapy, along with coaching the mother into positions that allow for comfort during labor. The birth ball, an exercise stability ball, is common during labor as it is relaxing during contractions. Some women also choose to give birth in the upright or squatting position instead of lying on a bed.

Benefits

• Giving birth to a baby is a natural process and allowing the body to follow its natural ability to give birth is results in faster recovery for the mother and a healthier baby. The Lamaze method educates mothers to prepare them for the birthing process. The method also teaches the mother when a medical intervention is necessary for the health and safety of the baby and mother. The controlled breathing for pain management allows for easier communication between the mother, coach and medical staff.