How to Use Lamaze for Childbirth

Because complications, such as a longer labor and an increased chance of a Cesarean section, are sometimes associated with childbirth in which medical pain control methods are used, many women choose to use Lamaze. Learning Lamaze breathing techniques can be a valuable pain-control tool for childbirth without drugs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Labor coach

1. Attend a Lamaze class with a labor partner who will coach you through the experience. Make certain the labor coach will be supportive, understands the stages of labor and knows what to expect with each one.

2. Learn what specific items--such as music, thoughts and tactile sensations--will relax you. Use these items to aid in relaxation during pregnancy and plan to bring them to the hospital during childbirth.

3. Have your labor coach practice massages that will help keep you relaxed.

4. Learn a cycle of patterned breathing. Choose a pattern, such as five fast breaths and then five slow breaths, and vary the pattern in a long breathing cycle. Use the breathing pattern to keep your mind focused on breathing instead of pain.

5. Practice the breathing pattern often, before labor, to ensure that you can remember the pattern when the pain of labor begins.

6. Use the breathing pattern, massage and other relaxation techniques together during labor. Keep as relaxed as possible so that groups of tensed muscles don't increase the labor pains.

Tips & Warnings

• Lamaze classes are often taught at hospitals, community centers or medical clinics.

Resources

• Learn about the Lamaze method and childbirth at Lamaze International.

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