Helpful Score: 3
This is THE book to have for pregnancy and birth. Filled with more information than most obstetricians will relate, it empowers women to make intelligent birthing choices. A great reference book about the stages of labor, with actual pictures of a birthing couple. There is some nudity because of this. While the Bradley method itself may seem trite during the onset of labor, the knowledge gained from this book of what is happening to one's body during birth is invaluable. The book advocates natural birth without medical intervention though it is a good reference book for any pregnant woman, and explains the pros and cons of commonly used medical practices.
Helpful Score: 2
This book is wonderful! All four of my babies so far have been done via this method. It really teaches you how to relax through your labor. I liked that there is one thing to learn, just deep normal breathing and trying to completely relax your whole body. I didn't use the side lying position that is proposed in the book, it just hasn't ever been comfortable for me but you can utilized these principals regardless of your labor position.
I would read this early in your pregnancy and then if it's for you make sure you find a doctor or midwife that shares your goals for your labor and delivery. I didn't and my first birth was a constant fight with the doctor while in labor and delivery. You can call your Bradley instructor(s) in your area and they can recommend doctors and or midwives and hospitals for you.
The only negative in my opinion for the book is that all the ladies are naked while birthing and most of the guys have these 80's shorts on. Don't think you have to do this method and look exactly like the book! I hope they will update it in the future. An excellent companion for this book and one that I have since utilized more is called The Birth Book by the Sears'. With both books you are ready for birthing your babies naturally, you CAN do it!
I would read this early in your pregnancy and then if it's for you make sure you find a doctor or midwife that shares your goals for your labor and delivery. I didn't and my first birth was a constant fight with the doctor while in labor and delivery. You can call your Bradley instructor(s) in your area and they can recommend doctors and or midwives and hospitals for you.
The only negative in my opinion for the book is that all the ladies are naked while birthing and most of the guys have these 80's shorts on. Don't think you have to do this method and look exactly like the book! I hope they will update it in the future. An excellent companion for this book and one that I have since utilized more is called The Birth Book by the Sears'. With both books you are ready for birthing your babies naturally, you CAN do it!
Helpful Score: 2
The Bradley method was more effective than Lamaze by far. You must have a partner for this to be successful. It was very helpful for me in getting through natural childbirth. It was also good exercise during the pregnancy. There are great tips on relaxation and it will help you bond with your partner.
Helpful Score: 2
Super book! Helped me go through 3 days of pitocin induced labor with no other drugs.
It is not a put away of your mind and go somewhere else method like Lamaze. It lets you focus on your pain, on the muscles around your womb. and through practice helps you relax those muscles so the pain is not as intense as when you are bracing for a contraction and you are all tighten up. That makes the pain even worse. It takes practice... it is never too late to start...
It is a 2 people deal though, with my 2nd, I almost had no help and it was much harder 5 hours with no help than 3 day with great help.
It is not a put away of your mind and go somewhere else method like Lamaze. It lets you focus on your pain, on the muscles around your womb. and through practice helps you relax those muscles so the pain is not as intense as when you are bracing for a contraction and you are all tighten up. That makes the pain even worse. It takes practice... it is never too late to start...
It is a 2 people deal though, with my 2nd, I almost had no help and it was much harder 5 hours with no help than 3 day with great help.
Helpful Score: 1
lots of info! Great read
