Chapter 3: Birth and the Newborn
Chapter Objectives
After this chapter, you should be able to:
- Compare and contrast different methods of childbirth preparation.
- Describe the stages of vaginal delivery.
- Explain why induction or Caesarean section may be necessary.
- Differentiate the common procedures for assessing the condition of the newborn.
- Examine problems newborns experience before, during, and after birth.
Introduction
After around 266 days of developing inside the womb (for a full-term pregnancy), comes the arduous process of childbirth. After birth, newborns have to regulate their own body temperature, breathe for themselves, and take in all of their nutrition through feeding. Let’s look at both the process of birth and some attributes of the newborn.
Preparing for Childbirth
Prepared childbirth refers to being not only in good physical condition to help provide a healthy environment for the baby to develop, but also helping individuals to prepare to accept their new roles as parents. Additionally, parents can receive information and training that will assist them for delivery and life with the baby. The more future parents can learn about childbirth and the newborn, the better prepared they will be for the adjustment they must make to a new life.
Approaches to Childbirth
There are many different approaches to childbirth that influence how expectant parents prepare. The following table describes a few of these:
Table 3.1 – Approaches to Childbirth1
|
Method |
Description |
|
The Lamaze Method |
The emphasis of this method is on teaching the woman to be in control in the process of delivery. It includes learning muscle relaxation, breathing through contractions, having a focal point (usually a picture to look at) during contractions and having a support person who goes through the training process with the mother and serves as a coach during delivery. |
|
The Leboyer Method |
This method involves giving birth in a quiet, dimly lit room and allowing the newborn to lie on the mother’s stomach with the umbilical cord intact for several minutes while being given a warm bath. |
|
Dick-Read Method / Mongan Method / Hypnobirthing |
This method comes from the suggestion that the fear of childbirth increases tension and makes the process of childbearing more painful. It emphasizes the use of relaxation and proper breathing with contractions as well as family support and education. |
|
Bradley Method |
“The Bradley Method focuses on preparing the mother for a natural childbirth coached by her partner. They learn techniques to reduce the perception of pain and stay relaxed. The emphasis is on being prepared for an unassisted vaginal birth without medication.”2 |
|
Alexander Technique |
This is a technique that can be used during childbirth that involves training to stop habitual reactions to pain, such as tensing muscles and increase conscious awareness and control over posture and movement. This involves being able to move freely and stay upr