Welcoming a new child into the world is an event many women look forward to with anticipation and some degree of apprehension. The prospect of childbirth can be daunting, especially for first-time mothers. Fortunately, there are several time-tested techniques available for pain and stress management should you opt for a natural delivery. One particularly well known method, made popular by Dr. Fernand Lamaze, employs breathing and other relaxation techniques to make labor and delivery as stress-free as possible.
History
Psychoprophylaxis, or the use of relaxation techniques to manage pain, originated in the Soviet Union in the early 20th century. Obstetrician Dr. Fernand Lamaze, having witnessed a psychoprophylactic birth in Russia, introduced the techniques at his own private practice in France in 1951. The Lamaze method for natural childbirth gained popularity in Europe and eventually made its way to the United States thanks to the advocacy of Elisabeth Bing, Marjorie Karmel and obstetrician Benjamin Segal, who together founded the Lamaze International organization.
Philosophy
Lamaze practitioners believe that childbirth is a natural process entirely within the control of the laboring woman and that most births can take place safely without medical intervention if the woman is allowed to follow her intuition and maternal instincts. The Lamaze method places heavy emphasis on the importance of the woman's spouse or partner during labor and delivery. The partner should become an educated coach who is able to encourage the woman's efforts, boost her confidence and guide her through relaxation techniques and pain management.
Breathing Techniques
While the "hee hee hoo hoo" breathing pattern is the stereotypical hallmark of a Lamaze birth, Lamaze educators have shifted their focus in recent years. Practitioners still encourage women to focus on breathing, but suggest that the woman find a pattern that fits her own unique labor experience. For instance, some women find it beneficial to breath with the rhythm of a prayer or mantra while others are assisted by background music. Additionally, women are encouraged to pair breathing with other relaxation techniques such as rocking, dancing, swaying and massage.
Recommendations
Talk to your physician about childbirth education classes and discuss your options for labor and delivery. If you decide to take a Lamaze class, register early in your second trimester, as the classes generally last for several weeks. Since birth coaches play an important role in Lamaze techniques, make sure to spend plenty of time discussing labor and delivery with your partner.
References
- Lamaze International: History of Lamaze
- Lamaze International: The Lamaze Approach to Birth
- American Pregnancy Association: Childbirth Education Classes
- University of Iowa News Series; Lamaze Lowdown: How a Popular Childbirth Method Crossed the Iron Curtain; Nicole Riehl; June 2010
- Journal of Perinatal Education; Lamaze International; 2002
