Child delivery, also referred to as childbirth or labor, describes the ending of a pregnancy where one or more babies leave the uterus through a caesarian section of the vagina. Dencker et al. (2019) explain that analysts have not established the actual events leading to child labor despite conducting significant research (p. 99). Lamaze is a delivery preparation approach that plays a vital role in making potential mothers ready for birth. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the method and how it can be helpful when dealing with women in labor.
The Lamaze approach is the most common and oldest childbirth preparation method in America. Michaels (2018) expounds that its discovery is credited to Dr. Fernand Lamaze in the 1950s after being inspired by emotional support and natural relaxation strategies he observed in Russia during childbirth. There are six basic research principles incorporated in the Lamaze method known as The Lamaze Healthy Birth Practices (Michaels, 2018). Today, there are one million births every year or one in four deliveries from parents educated about the Lamaze approach. This method is crucial because it prepares females for a healthy and safe birth using evidence-based information.
The Lamaze method teaches mechanisms about coping with child delivery, builds confidence in women, and serves as a medical intervention alternative. Lönnberg et al. (2020) explain that the rhythmic breathing exercises that minimize anxiety, pain perception, and heart rate make this method more popular in the United States. Lönnberg et al. (2020) assert that appropriate inhalation and exhalation processes are vital tools during childbirth because they keep the mother and the child well oxygenated. Therefore, understanding the Lamaze method’s processes helps the mother manage labor pain without the intervention of drugs.
Understanding the benefits caused by the Lamaze method has changed my perception of childbirth. This is because I have known the essentiality of applying the appropriate breathing rhythms as a woman. Additionally, the information has mentally prepared me for the process of giving birth. This knowledge has also erased the fear that I had about child delivery. For example, I am assured that the data used in this method is evidence-based. Therefore, it enhances the well-being of women and minimizes adverse results during child delivery. Following the instructions set forth by Lamaze research principles increase the possibility of having a safe delivery. Therefore, I know what to do when my time to give birth comes.
The knowledge I have derived from learning about the Lamaze birth preparation approach has helped me gain the confidence of assisting women in labor. For instance, I have known that deep breaths should be taken during the onset of contractions; therefore, I would guide the female to do so. I will also advise the woman to breathe in through the nose and use the mouth to exhale. It is essential for women in labor to blow out a long breath after breathing four to five times. I can help female in labor divert attention from the pain by focusing on one physical item, such as a partner or a photograph.
In summary, the primary purpose of the Lamaze birth preparation method is to instill confidence in pregnant women and ensure they deliver safely. This approach uses evidence-based data, and it is the oldest in the United States. The rhythmic breathing exercises promoted by Lamaze helps women to reduce anxiety, heart rate, and perception of labor pains. This birth preparation method has helped me know how I can handle childbirth or support women in labor.
References
Dencker, A., Nilsson, C., Begley, C., Jangsten, E., Mollberg, M., Patel, H.,… & Sparud-Lundin, C. (2019). Causes and outcomes in studies of fear of childbirth: A systematic review. Women and Birth, 32(2), 99-111. Web.
Lönnberg, G., Jonas, W., Unternaehrer, E., Bränström, R., Nissen, E., & Niemi, M. (2020). Effects of a mindfulness-based childbirth and parenting program on pregnant women’s perceived stress and risk of perinatal depression – Results from a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Affective Disorders, 262, 133-142. Web.
Michaels, P. A. (2018). The sounds and sights of natural childbirth: Films and records in antenatal preparation classes, the 1950s–1980s. Social History of Medicine, 31(1), 24-40. Web.