Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way: Revised Edition [Paperback]

Susan McCutcheon (Author), Erick Ingraham (Illustrator), Robin Yoko Burningham (Illustrator), Robert A. Bradley (Introduction)

Book Description

Release date: July 1, 1996

Since the Bradley method was first introduced in 1970, a growing number of expectant parents have opted for natural childbirth, knowing that it's safer than medicated or surgical delivery. But where can parents-to-be go for information on how to have a successful Bradley birth? This book provides all the answers, offering sound advice on how to prepare physically for labor and what to expect during each of its stages. Photos & line drawings.

Product Details

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Plume Book; Revised edition (July 1, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0452276594
• ISBN-13: 978-0452276598
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 0.8 x 7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (306 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,773 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #13 in Books > Health, Fitness & Dieting > Women's Health > General
  • #15 in Books > Health, Fitness & Dieting > Women's Health > Pregnancy & Childbirth

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

122 of 124 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Method of Chilbirth and Great Book! October 22, 1999

By Katrina D. Mukherjee

Format:Paperback

My first child was born after we attended Lamaze classes. Nothing in that birth was as I 'planned' and everything I did not want to happen...happened. I was an observer of a process that did not feel related to me.

During my second pregnancy we bought this book and attended the Bradley classes. This birth was excellent and wonderful!! I delivered a 10lb 3oz. baby boy with absolutely NO interventions (IV, drugs, epesiotomy etc.) and LOVED every minute of it. It was MY birth!

This book and the associated classes made all the difference in the world!! This book is not meant for those looking for the 'middle ground'. Bradley childbirth is NOT the 'middle ground'. If you are looking for reassurrance, practical relaxation techniques and guidance for your coach AND you are planning for a natural, personal childbirth THEN this is the book for you!!

119 of 125 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars Lots of help, skip the scary parts November 3, 1999

By Laura

Format:Paperback

I found this book extremely informative on Bradley technique but kind of scary when talking about alternatives and hospitals. After having two babies using medications, I was desperate to find another option. The book is extremely good about detailing the feelings you have during pregnancy and childbirth. Working on the birthing techniques with my husband was priceless and helped create a special bond between us. After having our third child without medication I have got to tell everyone how much better a drug free birthing experience can be! I only paniced once. I had praticed the pushing visualization so well it only took three pushes for our daughter to be born! The scary part can be avoided by skipping the information on Lamaze, hospitals, and doctors. It is out-dated and frightening. Move on to the excercises and have a wonderful birth experience!

113 of 121 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars An Excellent Resource For The Bradley Method June 2, 2000

By "justharmony"

Format:Paperback

Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way is an excellent resource on the Bradley Method. Author, Susan McCutcheon introduces you to the Bradley Method, explains how it differs from Lamaze, discusses how to choose your childbirth educator and your doctor, explains the importance of nutrition and how to prepare yourself for this life transforming experience.

In addition to the general information she provides in helping you to prepare, she thoroughly walks you through the Bradley Method. Through exercise, illustration, nutrition, and practice, McCutcheon completely covers how you should prepare and deal with both First and Second Stage of Childbirth. Finally, she closes the text with a discussion of various childbirth controversies -- episiotomies, caesarean sections and homebirth.

This book excels in preparing you for a Natural Childbirth, as defined by the American Academy of Husband Coached Childbirth -- a birth that is without unnecessary medical intervention. However, some view her tone as "fear tactics" or "outdated" ideas. I disagree. Rather, she educates you on the principles of Bradley and provides you with the ability to recognize when the medical personnel are undertaking a procedure for their convenience or for your best interest. In short, she provides you with information and proven tools to make informed decisions and take responsibility for your birth.

Despite the strengths of this book, I highly recommend that, whenever physically possible, the reader enroll in a Bradley class to supplement the reading in this book. If you *really* desire a Natural Childbirth, the class will provide you with the knowledge, practice and support you need to achieve your goals. Though this book is excellent, your instructor is almost essential -- she can guide you in recognizing when you need medical assistance and when you do not!