The calmbirth® philosophy is based on
the belief that pregnancy, labour and
birth are normal life events and that
birth is a natural process.
The calmbirth® classes draw on
contemporary birth physiology and the
work of obstetrician Grantly Dick Read
(1890-1959) giving couples a greater
understanding of the birthing process
and helping to allay fear and anxiety.
It aims to empower couples by providing
them with the necessary tools to achieve
a more satisfying birth experience.
The calmbirth® philosophy subscribes to
the belief that it is your subconscious
mind that is in control and guides your
body through childbirth and that mothers
have within themselves subconscious
resources which, with practice, can be
used to birth their babies without fear,
naturally, and more comfortably.
Fear and anxiety create a physiological
response that can negatively affect
birth. Being able to relax and trust
your body to do what it is designed to
do and allowing your subconscious to
take control facilitates a physiological
response in the body that assists you to
achieve a more positive and rewarding
birthing experience. These simple
techniques also can assist the woman and
her partner face whatever challenges may
come their way during the pregnancy and
birth.
calmbirth® is complementary to
all models of care, be it private or
public, birth centre or homebirth and is
not an alternative to the birthing
choices you have already made. You will
gain practical knowledge and skills
whether this is your first or third
baby, or hoping to achieve a vaginal
birth after a previous caesarean (VBAC).
Preparation, determination and practice
are the keys to a positive and rewarding
birth experience.
The classes involve both the woman and
her partner/support in discussion and
relaxation exercises. The key to
successfully utilising these inner
(subconscious) resources is practice at
home through the use of relaxation CDs,
and breathing and visualisation
exercises.
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