The Bradley Method® is a system of natural labor techniques in which a woman and her coach play an active part. It is a simple method of increasing self-awareness and teaching you how to deal with the stress of labor. Bradley® teachers urge couples to find what is comfortable for them in labor. Instead of seeking to control the sensations of labor with distraction methods, The Bradley Method® encourages you to trust your body using natural breathing combined with relaxation.

A natural birth is safest for a healthy mother and healthy baby, which is the primary goal of The Bradley Method®. The process of preparation and the circumstances of a natural birth favor the development of strong family bonds. To encourage this the class size is intentionally small with no more than eight birthing couples per series. For all these reasons The Bradley Method® teaches and endorses the following:

• Natural childbirth

• Active participation by the coach

• Excellent nutrition (the foundation of a healthy pregnancy and labor)

• Avoidance of drugs

• Early training (continuing until birth)

• Natural breathing combined with relaxation techniques

• Tuning into and working with your body

• Immediate and continuous contact with your new baby

• Breastfeeding beginning at birth

• Positive communications

• Informed parents sharing in the making of responsible decisions

• Parents prepared for unexpected situations (such as emergency childbirth or
  cesarean section)

For most couples, the fifth or the beginning of the sixth month is the suggested time to seriously start training for labor and for your upcoming role as parents. The earlier you start, the better prepared you’ll be physically, emotionally, and mentally.

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