What is the Bradley Method?

The Bradley Method, is a method of Natural Childbirth developed by American obstetrician Robert Bradley in the 1940's. This method is based on the idea that childbirth is a natural process and with the right preparation, most women can avoid pain medication and routine interventions during labor and birth. Supporters of the Bradley Method claim that nearly 90 percent of women who employ the Bradley Method will do so without drugs if there is a vaginal delivery.

The Bradley Method endorses the belief that it takes months to prepare for childbirth. Training courses are traditionally 12 weeks long and are limited to 8 couples. The course prepares expectant families mentally, physically, and emotionally addressing all aspects of natural childbirth as well as pregnancy and postpartum issues, such as breast-feeding. In the Bradley Method, partners are educated to be effective childbirth coaches.

Below you will find topics addressed in a Bradley course.

* Nutrition and how it affects a growing fetus
* Exercise during pregnancy
* Common pregnancy complaints and how to deal with them
* Relaxation techniques during labor and birth with a focus on breathing methods to manage pain
* The stages of labor and how to cope with body changes during each stage
* Medical interventions and how you can avoid them
* How to reduce your risk of a C-Section
* Making a Birth Plan
* How to effectively communicate with your medical team
* Postpartum information (i.e. breast-feeding)

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