1| Lamaze: One of the oldest and most commonly taught practices, this technique focuses on rhythmic breathing, different birthing positions and avoiding unnecessary medical interventions.
2| Alexander: Education is key for this tuned-in method that teaches posture and movement techniques for strengthening pelvic muscles and improving balance, coordination, back pain and breathing.
3| Bradley: This tactic encourages self-awareness and relaxation to help reduce anxiety and create a calm atmosphere during labor. Expectant mamas practice deep breathing, abdominal relaxation movements, good prenatal nutrition and regular exercise.
4| Hypnobirthing: Mind, body and spirit are at play to give expectant ladies a positive birth experience with the use of self-hypnosis, music, visualization and verbal encouragement to help control pain reactions.
5| Water birth: As its name suggests, the use of warm water promotes efficient uterine contractions, increased blood circulation and (fingers crossed) less pain during childbirth. It also gives newborns a gentle introduction to the world, eliminating the stress of exiting the birth canal and reducing complications from labor.
