Alternative Birthing Methods

The Lamaze method of natural childbirth was introduced in 1951 by Fernand Lamaze, M.D. This method consists of childbirth education classes attended by both the woman and her child birthing partner. The Lamaze method allows labor to begin on its own, encourages walking and changing position throughout labor, has a loved one present to provide support, avoids intervention unless medically necessary, avoids giving birth on your back, follows your body’s urge to push and keeps the mother and baby together following birth, which is called rooming-in. Classes are taught by Lamaze-certified childbirth instructors.