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!