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Imagine you are in the process of delivering your little one and the room is filled with the scent of lavenders, your partner is holding your hand, your birthing coach is helping you relax, and your favorite music is playing in the background. It may seem impossible, but it is being opted for by many unconventional new-age moms as alternative birthing methods. They are said to be excellent for calming your nerves and having a quick and easy delivery.
Want to know your options when it comes to these unconventional birthing techniques? Here are 5 that you may want to consider.
Water Birth
Imagine soaking in a waist-deep bathtub of warm water or a jacuzzi. It’s a relaxing feeling indeed. That’s what hydrotherapy or water birth is all about. This birthing method reduces pain considerably and also, decreases the need for an epidural. Water births are safe and pose no harm to the baby as their lungs remain collapsed until they are out of the water.
Hypnobirthing
It starts even before labour starts. In hypnobirthing, hypnosis is used to prepare moms-to-be for delivery by allaying their fears and easing their pain. It allows expectant mothers to enter a Zen-like state by using various controlled breathing techniques. One minute your contractions are kicking in, and the next minute you’re holding your bundle of joy. It can be as simple as that.
Lamaze Birth
Lamaze classes have been extremely popular in western countries for over a decade. In these classes, pregnant women are taught a combination of relaxation methods, breathing techniques, massages, different birthing positions and effective communication skills. Lamaze is neither ‘for’ or ‘against’ the use of medicines to ease pain during labour. However, it instils confidence and encourages couples to make sound decisions while giving birth. Usually, Lamaze classes need to be planned ahead as they begin from the second trimester of pregnancy.
The Bradley Method
This technique is designed especially for moms who insist on an unmedicated delivery. In this method, couples are intensively coached in relaxation techniques for 12 weeks during pregnancy. It is also known as the husband-coached childbirth technique because the partner is actively involved in the delivery process and is responsible for supporting the mother. They also learn to listen to the mother’s needs and are able to identify and alleviate any stress. The Bradley method also emphasizes on the need for nutrition to lower the risk of complications during labour.
Home Birth
Many expectant mothers would love the idea of giving birth in the comfort of their home. It’s not just cost-effective; it also lets you be in a familiar setting with your loved ones while delivering. However, it can be risky if you have pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes or blood pressure, or are at risk of pre-term delivery. The pain management options available during home birth are also few. It is advisable to opt for a home birth only if your gynecologist approves of it.
No matter which method you choose – conventional or unconventional – remember, it’s just a moment of pain before a lifetime of happiness.