Natural Birth and Baby Care.com

Bradley Method?

by Rachelle
(St. Louis, MO)

I've been looking over your site and don't see any mention of the Bradley Method. I was just curious what your take is on it??

Answer

Hi Rachelle,

You've asked a great question. In short, I think the Bradley Method is excellent. I actually do overview it here on the site. I'll give you the links below.

The Bradley Method has been around for decades and is a trusted and effective method. It's one of my top recommendations, especially if you want to take a traditional childbirth class with other couples.

Bradley does a great job going over interventions and how to advocate for yourself as a consumer. There is lots of information on labor and birth management techniques, and on getting the birth you want in any birth setting.

The nutrition information the course gives is excellent - and they have a good system for tracking your diet. Bradley courses usually also begin early enough in your pregnancy that the nutrition information is really beneficial!

Bradley does emphasize the role of the father and "coach" a lot - something I have never had issue with - but some women don't like that emphasis. Just keep it in mind.

I've had personal experience with Bradley - with my first child I took private "Bradley Method inspired" classes and used several Bradley books. I used the same material to prepare for my second birth. With my third baby a group of pregnant friends and I found a Bradley instructor to do a class for us at one of our homes. It was a great experience for me.

If you're looking for an instructor-led class I recommend the Bradley Method. You can read more about it on this page, which gives a general overview of classes:

Childbirth Education

I also mention the Bradley Method specifically (and recommend it highly) in my comparison chart here:

Childbirth Class Comparison Chart

*As as side note you'll see on both pages that I recommend the Pink Kit to be used alongside Bradley (or any class) because the skills are so practical and compliment your Bradley skills perfectly.