Why Choose the Bradley Method®?

The Bradley Method® utilizes straightforward, natural techniques to allow you to handle the experiences of labour. The Mom-to-be  and her Husband-Coach play an active role throughout the course of labour and birth. You learn simple ways to increase your self-awareness, allowing you to deal with your labour more effectively. Bradley® couples are encouraged to do what feels comfortable for them in labour. Trusting your body and the natural process, employing natural breathing and relaxation is what The Bradley® Method is all about.

Why Choose a Bradley Method® instructor?

Your Bradley® instructor teaches from experience, having had a Bradley Method® birth themselves. They are experts in the normality of natural childbirth and have trained intensively to help couples have the birth experience they desire. They will be affiliated with the American Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth, and must re-affiliate each year to meet high educational standards.

What does the Bradley Method® teach?

Your Bradley Method® teacher wants you to have the safest and most rewarding birth experience possible. The Bradley Method promotes the following:

• Natural childbirth
• Husband-coaches who actively participate
• Excellent nutrition - the foundation of a healthy pregnancy
• Avoidance of drugs in pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding
• Using natural breathing and relaxation techniques
• Tuning in and listening to your body
• Bonding with your baby through immediate, continuous contact
• Breastfeeding soon after birth
• Communicating positively
• Parental responsibility in decision making
• Preparedness for the unexpected (emergency childbirth, Cesarean section)

Why Natural Childbirth?

Natural Childbirth is the safest for both mom and baby. Through the process of preparation and the experiences of birth strong family bonds are created.

When should classes be taken?

Bradley Method® classes are taken in a 12 week series. It is highly recommended that the classes are started no later than the fifth or beginning of the sixth month of pregnancy. The earlier you begin to prepare, the more ready you will be physically, mentally and emotionally.

Where are classes held?

Classes are held in the comfort of your Bradley Method® instructor's home. For that reason class sizes are small and intimate.

For the purpose of consumer protection, the terms "Husband-Coached Childbirth" and "The Bradley Method" have been registered. Only teachers currently affiliated with the Academy may teach The Bradley Method®. A national directory of teachers and teacher training information is available from the Academy.

AAHCC National Headquarters: Box 5224, Sherman Oaks, CA 91413 (800)4-A-BIRTH or (818)788-6662 www.bradleybirth.com