Many people equate the Lamaze approach to childbirth with the breathing techniques that have been taught for decades. But, the Lamaze philosophy is so much more than that. The Lamaze understanding of a woman’s experience encompasses, in general, a deep respect for the laboring mother and the natural processes taking place.

• Birth is normal, natural, and healthy.
• The experience of birth profoundly affects women and their families.
• Women’s inner wisdom guides them through birth.
• Women’s confidence and ability to give birth is either enhanced or diminished by the care provider and place of birth.
• Women have a right to give birth free from routine medical intervention.
• Birth can safely take place in homes, birth centers, and hospitals.
• Childbirth education empowers women to make informed choices in health care, to assume responsibility for their health, and to trust their inner wisdom.

For more information on Lamaze’s approach and philosophies of pregnancy, birth and beyond, go to Lamaze.org.

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