Decide before hand how you want to have your baby, then arm yourself with the knowledge you need.

Whether you're a first-time expectant parent or have experienced childbirth before, it's good to know what your options are — and they're growing all the time! Childbirth classes offered at area birthing facilities are one way to learn more about the various techniques; these classes cover the basics and provide emotional support for parents-to-be. The following is a brief overview of various techniques and resources available for giving birth.

The Bradley Method

In 1947, Robert Bradley, M.D., developed this method of childbirth after observing the way animals go into an extremely relaxed state — a state similar to sleeping — when they give birth. In the '60s, Bradley's idea of a natural, drug-free and husband-coached childbirth picked up momentum. Classes generally last about 12 weeks and are held for the mother and father (or other birthing partner). Both participants learn the deep breathing abdominal methods specific to the Bradley Method. Mothers learn deep relaxation skills to use during labor as well as various comfort positions for labor and birth.

Bradley instructors encourage open and positive communication with all participants in the child birthing process. For more information about the Bradley method, visit the American Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth website at bradleybirth.com.

Certified Nurse Midwives

Recent data recorded by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) shows that the number of midwives attending births nationwide has increased dramatically in the past few decades. A study of trends in the attendant, place and timing of births in the United States from 1989 - 97 showed that seven percent of births were attended by midwives rather than doctors — up from 3.7 percent in 1989.

According to the NCHS, 95 percent of midwife-attended births involve a certified nurse midwife (CNM) rather than a lay midwife. CNMs provide the same prenatal care as physicians, developing prenatal profiles and providing urinalysis as well as any necessary cultures. They most often attend births in a hospital or birthing center. To locate the birthing facilities in Middle Tennessee that work with CNMs, see the Middle Tennessee Birthing Directory.

Lay midwives typically have no formal medical training, but often apprentice with an experienced midwife for a number of years. Lay midwives attend births at home or in a birthing center. All midwives work to develop a relationship with the mother-to-be and ensure that she has the birth experience she desires.

Doulas

To further your support base during your birth experience, you may choose to employ the assistance of a doula.

"Doula" is a greek term that means "mothering the mother." The three terms "doula," "childbirth assistant" and "labor assistant" are used interchangeably to describe the types of services doulas provide.

In the belief that the way you give birth affects the rest of your life, the doula's goal is to support both parents at each of their own comfort levels. A recent study published in The American Medical Journal suggests there are substantial benefits to including the assistance of a knowledgeable labor support person during birth. According to the study, labor is often less complicated, less painful and of a shorter duration when a labor assistant is present.

Doulas are typically certified by Doulas of North America (DONA) or the International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA). For more information, call DONA at 888-788-DONA or the ICEA at 952-854-8660; or visit dona.org or icea.org.

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