Kapiolani Community College Nursing

Childbirth Preparations
Grantly Dick-Read Method

Known as Childbirth without Fear

Early first-stage contractions deep abdominal breathing
Late first-stage contractions shallow breathing
Sustain pushing with breath-holding
Relax completely between contractions
Keep all muscles (except the uterus) relaxed during contractions

Lamaze Method

Known as Psychoprophylactic Method (PPM)

Using the mind to control muscular relaxation
(neuromuscular control) and breathing techniques
Goal: To be able to relax the uninvolved muscles in
the body while contracting the uterine muscle
Rather than tensing during uterine contractions,
women were conditioned to respond with
relaxation and breathing patterns

Bradley Method

Known as Husband-Coached Childbirth

Advocates true natural childbirth, without
any form of anesthesia or analgesia, with a
husband-coach and breathing techniques
for labor
Uses breath control, abdominal breathing
and general body relaxation
Darkness, solitude, and quiet to make
childbirth a more natural experience
Deep state of mental relaxation
Community Resources

Childbirth preparation classes through Hawaii Pacific Health

https://www.hawaiipacifichealth.org/events/maternity.aspx
Hawaii Childbirth Professionals (e.g. Doulas)
http://www.hawaiichildbirthprofessionals.com/educators.html

References:
Lowdermilk, D. & Perry S. (2013). Maternity & Womens Health Care (8th ed.). St. Louis: Mosby.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2014). Types of Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Web. Retrieved on February 19,
2014 from http://postpartumdepression.web.unc.edu/postpartum-depression/types-of-postpartum-mood-and-anxiety-disorders/.

Created by:
Lisa C., Student Nurse
Spring 2014