Preparation for Parenthood

Childbirth Preparation

• Preconception care/issues

• Childbearing decisions

• Childbirth education

• Types of childbirth classes

• Support during labor

Preconception Care

• Timing• Mental and physical health• Genetic counseling• Dental Health• Nutrition – Folic acid, 800mg/day during child

bearing age to prevent neural defects/anemia.• Supplements • When do you stop contraception?

Childbearing Decisions

• Choosing care provider for mom and baby

• Choice of birth setting

• Birth plan – Table 8-1 pg. 169 (168)

• Labor support decisions

• Sibling preparation

Childbirth Education

• Goals of education• Childbirth programs

– Early classes – 1st trimester– 2nd & 3rd trimester

• Breastfeeding classes• Sibling Preparation• Grandparent classes• Cesarean Birth

Types of Childbirth ClassesAll about relaxation and breathing…

• Table 8-2 pg. 176• Lamaze – disassociation relaxation, muscular relaxation,

breathing patterns• Kitzinger – chest breathing, with abdominal relaxation,

therapeutic touch• Bradley – harmony with your body using breath control

and general body relaxation • Hypnobirthing – relaxation techniques, deep breathing,

comfort and eliminating pain • Birthworks – exercise, pelvic body positioning, support,

relaxation

Basis of all Programs

• Instilling maternal confidence

• Freedom of choice based on knowledge of alternatives

• Combination of techniques

Support During Labor

• Body-Conditioning Exercises• Relaxation Exercises -fatigue increases

muscle tension and pain perception, decreases coping ability (make sure they’re rested)

• Breathing Techniques – increase pain threshold and ability to cope, sense of control, uterus functions more efficiently

• Support individuality - self care activities

Supportive Relaxation Techniques

– Comfort measures– Massage– Effleurage- A form of massage involving smooth

strokes of the skin with one's hands.– Rest– Distraction– Imagery - visualization– Vocalization– Warm water– Music– Birthing ball

Breathing Techniques

• First Pattern – slow paced breathing– Inhales slowly through nose, exhales slowly with

pursed lips

• Second Pattern – modified paced breathing– Inhales and exhales through mouth 4 times in 5

seconds, can increase speed

• Third Pattern – pattern paced– Inhales and exhales through the mouth; exhalations

are “hee” or “hoo” in ratios 2:1, 3:1, 4:1

• Hyperventilation – numbness or tingling of the nose, lips, fingers, toes