While the modern, traditional method of childbirth involves a maternity ward, hospital bed, and doctor – today’s alternative methods give people options they might not have known they had.

 

All of these methods are safe and are becoming increasing popular with pregnant mothers.

 

Water birth

 

The concept of water birth is that it is a more relaxing and soothing way for a child to enter the world. Water births became a trend over 20 years ago in the US, but have not really gained widespread popularity over this side of the Atlantic.

 

It has been widely reported that immersion during the first stage of childbirth reduces the pain of labour. Various theories as to the reason for the reduction of pain include the suggestions that the mother is better able to assume a comfortable position and that the warmth of the water may produce a sedative effect; immersion has been shown to decrease the release of several stress and anxiety related hormones. 

 

 

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used since ancient times for pain and ache relief, including the pain that goes with childbirth. It is also a known technique for turning babies that are breech.

 

Acupuncture can assist delivery in the following ways:

 

  • Dilation can be encouraged.
  • Pain relief through Acupuncture means you are able to work with the contractions.
  • The placenta can be delivered swiftly without the use of drugs.
  • Acupuncture helps keep you in a relaxed state during your labour.

 

Hypnobirth

 

This method focuses on the fact that childbirth is more of a natural process than a medical one. It stresses the importance of relaxation, self hypnosis, and slow breathing to avoid thinking about the pain associated with childbirth.

 

 

Here are some of the proven benefits of Hypnobirthing:



  • Mums remain relaxed and completely in control of their labour and birth 

  • Mums are less likely to require induction

  • Mums are less likely to require C-section

  • Mums recover quicker

  • Babies tend to be more alert and establish feeding better after a natural birth

  • Mums enjoy their pregnancy more and feel more connected with baby

  • Dads and birthing partners become more involved and many Hypnobirthing Dads report feeling more connected with the pregnancy and baby

  • There is no fear of labour and birth on the part of Mum, Dad or birth partner or baby!

  • Hypnobirthed babies tend to sleep better and have less instance of colic, reflux and other  common conditions

  • Labours tend to be shorter

  • Mums who have had no trauma at birth tend to have much better success breastfeeding

 

 

Doula

 

Doulas are a type of modern birthing coach that remain in the room during delivery providing physical and emotional support for women in childbirth. They are a type of professional labour assistant who are specially trained and motivated to follow a pregnant mother’s specific birthing plan.

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