Natural Birth: Five Alternatives to C-Sections

March 10, 2010— -- Here are five popular natural ways to having a baby. You should, of course, ask your doctor if you are considering any of these natural methods.

In this technique, women are encouraged to give birth in the presence of their partners, without the use of epidural anesthesia, intravenous drugs, surgery, or tools. The technique is taught in a 12-week class conducted in the last trimester of pregnancy.

HypnoBirth trains mothers-to-be to achieve complete relaxation during labor and delivery. The method involves courses with an instructor, along with home self-hypnosis exercises that teach women how to eliminate the pain of labor by staying completely focused and in control of the birthing process.

Lamaze is a birthing technique that emphasizes breathing. Women are generally taught to control their breathing, change positions and walk around at certain points during labor. Partners are also encouraged to participate in the delivery. While Lamaze is generally a natural technique, a woman can have an epidural if she feels she needs it.

As the name suggests, this technique allows you to give birth in the comfort of your own home. According to the American Pregnancy Association, home birth is not for you if:

• You are diabetic.
• You have chronic high blood pressure, or toxemia (also known as preeclampsia).
• You have experienced preterm labor in the past, or may be at risk for preterm labor now.
• Your partner does not fully support your decision to give birth at home.

Some women may find that giving birth in a warm tub of water will help them relax and the buoyancy may help alleviate discomfort and pressure.

"Water delivery is not recommended for women with high-risk pregnancies and preparation should be made for delivery to occur out of the water if complications arise," according to the American Pregnancy Association.

Source: American Pregnancy Association