I've wrestled with sharing about this class because I don't want to repeat everrrrrythingggg in the class {because a) boring for you and b) copyright laws} but I also want to share this adventure with you. So I will give you highlights and hope that satisfies all parties. And if it doesn't, then go throw your own party and be happy.
The Bradley Birth class is aka Husband-Coaching Childbirth. Dr. Bradley wrote a book called Husband Coached Childbirth and he describes natural childbirth and the training mothers and dads/husbands/coaches can do together to achieve a natural birth.
Dr. Bradley defines "natural" as non-surgical and medicine-free birth, or as he puts it, "the way your grandmother gave birth." This clarification is important {to Dr. Bradley, at least} because some doctors' MO is that if the baby comes out "normally" {trying SO hard to avoid body words on the internet, but it may not be possible!!} then it's natural, no matter what pain meds or other drugs were utilized.
Thesis:
Through exercise {both general and specific exercises taught by Dr. Bradley}, good nutrition, and relaxation, women and their coaches can achieve a natural birth.
Birth is an athletic event, so with Husband/Dad acting as Coach, women can train and prepare for the marathon that is labor and delivery.
Fun Facts I've Learned:
- Expectant moms should be eating 80-100 grams of protein every day {of course, consult with your doctor and stuff}
- Relaxation is something that takes practice
- After birth, if babies are placed on the mother's stomach, the baby will crawl his or her way up the mother to start nursing.
These are only a few of the cool things I've learned at Bradley class, so stay tuned for updates at two-thirds done {middle of August, due to some travelling breaks} and totally done {middle of September}. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments!
So glad you're learning all this! I could have a attended one of my sister's births, but it just wasn't for me....but then again that was 7 years ago so who knows? You're going to be a great Doula. :-)
ReplyDeleteYay! Thanks for sharing - this sounds exciting!
ReplyDeleteIn talking the subject Birth with other women I've learned that there are many out there with the opinion that if they have a (in keeping with your wording style) "normal" delivery it is natural. I have especially ran into this with foreign mommas who I hear often say 'I had a natural birth with only the aid of gas'. I've become the crazy lady that always says things like in my "unmedicated natural birth" just to make sure I'm not being misunderstood.
ReplyDeleteIt's so fascinating to me to hear people's varying definitions of "natural" and "normal." I try not to use the word "normal" because really, what is normal!? :) Glad you clarify! :)
ReplyDeleteBirth is not exciting for everyone, I totally understand! Thanks for your encouragement! :)
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