Around 40 years ago a small group of people sought to change the way childbirth was being done, seeking a method that did not require or depend on drugs. Instead, it focused on control and support (of a loved one in the delivery room). From this want for change, childbirth education and Lamaze classes sprung forth.
Highly popular in the 80s and 90s, the last two decades have seen Lamaze classes dwindle in popularity, though the term is still frequently thrown around in pregnancy and reproductive circles. Originally, the classes sought to teach women about what to expect during pregnancy and labour. Classes aimed to prepare women through various techniques and exercises. These days, however, more women look to the internet for this type of information.
Are they still relevant? Do they help?
Absolutely.
Classes can further involve partners in the birth process.
The greatest benefit of Lamaze classes is the confidence it gives women in the face of labour. This can be especially useful and important for first time moms who are worried and are unsure about what to expect. Lamaze, often mistaken to be a breathing technique, is all about pain management and how to respond to pain. An additional benefit to classes is that it unites the soon-to-be-parents. When both partners take the class together, it is a method of preparation they can do together and help each other become sources of support before, during, and after the birth process.
Finally, classes can filter out the information found online. Where a new mother might Google one term and receive millions of article results, not knowing which one is pointing her in the right direction, Lamaze classes are conducted by childbirth experts, which have already filtered out the information and stay up to date with the latest information.
In the Philippines, and somewhat similar to Lamaze classes, the service of doulas is also becoming more popular. These women, birthing coaches, help new mothers and couples prepare for the arrival of the baby, prepare for the birthing process, and even help in the first two weeks post-delivery for questions on the baby’s behaviour and breastfeeding assistance (depending on the doula).
Both classes and doulas are easy to find in the Philippines, with birth workshops taking the place of Lamaze, and doulas becoming popular both on the web and through social media channels through the celebrity moms they assist. Any mom who feels a little lost or that they might need extra support, can easily search for these classes–or attend the free Mommy Mundo workshops with Rome Kanapi–and find the answers and encouragement they want and need!
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