The Bradley Birth Method was developed in the 1940s by American obstetrician Dr. Robert A. Bradley. It is based on the philosophy of "natural childbirth" (no drugs) and is a pioneer in involving fathers in the birthing process.
The Lamaze technique was also developed in the 1940s by French obstetrician Dr. Fernand Lamaze. Lamaz was influenced by Soviet childbirth practices and particularly approved of the midwife's role during childbirth. His method started gaining popularity in the United States in the late 1950s and is now the most commonly used delivery method.
Lamaze's and Bradley's methods produce the same results but differ in many ways. The most important difference between these delivery methods is the issue of pain relief and how the parents deal with this issue. But what do these two methods represent and how are they different?
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Bradley Technique
The Bradley Method is a 12-week course that teaches parents how to control the pain of childbirth. It advocates the philosophy of natural childbirth and is also called 'man-led' childbirth. He encourages parents to use deep breathing and relaxation exercises as a means of coping with childbirth.
Bradley's approach rejects the notion of "distraction" as a way to cope with childbirth and challenges the use of painkillers and unnecessary cesarean sections.
However, Bradley's training prepares parents for unexpected complications that can lead to a cesarean section or another form of intervention. His method also includes nutritional and dietary advice for mothers during pregnancy, which inevitably has a positive impact on the growth and well-being of the fetus. It is always recommended that mothers do sensible and regular exercise to properly prepare for childbirth.
The Bradley Technique also informs parents of the various stages of labor and teaches them how to respond to changes in the mother's body. The father takes on the role of "coach" during the birth, helping her mother focus on the task at hand, helping with breathing exercises, and instilling confidence. Various forms of massage can also be used.
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Lamaze Technique
The Lamaze technique uses the Pavlovian response to pain. Lamaze believed that giving birth was a physical exercise that requires both energy and concentration. His method focuses on arming the expectant couple with various tools to ease discomfort and conserve energy in order to control pain as it occurs.
The Lamaze Technique encourages the couple to use deep breathing exercises and various `distraction` techniques, which can include concentrating on pleasant memories, as a way of distracting the woman from the pain of labor.
Lamaze childbirth classes often recommend the benefits associated with changing positions during the birth, as well as the use of hot and cold packs and `birthing balls` to ease contractions.
The Lamaze Philosophy is not as regimented as the Bradley Method. This gives parents all the facts but allows couples to use the information in their own way. His more liberal approach provides a neutral stance on pain medication and other medical and surgical options. It is up to the couple to decide.
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Final Note
There are many subtle differences and similarities between Bradley's and Lamaze's delivery methods. The main difference is that the Bradley method teaches women to focus on pain control. According to the Lamaze method, they learn to distract from it. Similarities include the use of deep breathing techniques, encouraging mothers to exercise appropriately during pregnancy, and involving both parents in the birthing process.
The best option for future families is to gather as much information as possible from your obstetrician or midwife before making a firm decision about which birth class to attend. It is always desirable for each couple to choose the method of delivery they like best. This is because it allows the couple to feel in control and experience the form of labor that best suits their needs.
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