What are some methods of childbirth education?
• Lamaze: Because “Lamaze” has become a generic term for childbirth preparation classes, it is important to make sure that a “Lamaze” class is, in fact, taught by a teacher certified by Lamaze International. The Lamaze mission is “to promote normal, natural, healthy and fulfilling childbirth experiences for women and their families through education, advocacy and reform.” Lamaze has become known for the “breathing,” but focusing on the breath and using breathing patterns is only one of many tools for coping with labor that is taught in Lamaze classes. In addition to relaxation and comfort measures, Lamaze classes cover normal labor and birth, labor and birth options, strategies to facilitate good progress, and communications skills. They provide information on medical procedures and pain medications to help couples make informed choices. Most educators also cover breastfeeding, postpartum and newborn issues, and adjusting to parenthood. While Lamaze is known almost exclusively for prep
