Lamaze breathing is a learned set of rhythmic breathing and relaxation techniques used during labor. This method provides a predictable focus that helps manage the intense sensations of contractions. The fundamental purpose of this patterned breathing is to help the birthing person stay centered and physically relaxed. By controlling the breath, the birthing person gains a sense of control over their body’s response to the physiological process of childbirth.
The Origin and Philosophy of Lamaze
The philosophy behind Lamaze originated with French obstetrician Dr. Fernand Lamaze, who introduced the method in the 1950s after observing techniques in the Soviet Union. His original system was based on psychoprophylaxis, a method that aimed to manage pain through psychological conditioning and education. This approach offered a way for women to give birth while fully conscious, without the heavy reliance on drugs common at the time.
The original Lamaze Method emphasized that fear and tension were the primary causes of labor pain, laying the foundation for mind-body techniques. By educating expectant parents about the physiological process of birth, the method sought to reduce fear, muscle tension, and pain perception. Practicing controlled breathing and conscious relaxation was seen as the primary way to maintain focus and control throughout the labor experience.
Core Lamaze Breathing Techniques
Lamaze breathing is a progression of patterns adapted to the increasing intensity of labor. It begins and ends with a Cleansing Breath, a slow, deep inhalation through the nose followed by a slow exhale through the mouth. This breath signals the start and end of a contraction, helping to reset the breathing pattern and promote relaxation.
During the early stages of labor, when contractions are mild, the recommended approach is Slow-Paced Breathing. The birthing person focuses on inhaling deeply through the nose and exhaling slowly through the mouth, aiming for about six to nine breaths per minute. This rhythm is significantly slower than the normal resting rate and encourages deep relaxation.
As labor intensifies, the technique transitions to Modified-Paced Breathing, which involves a lighter and slightly faster rate. The breath rate increases to about 30 to 40 breaths per minute, maintaining a steady, controlled rhythm. The goal is to keep the breath shallow and rhythmic, often breathing in and out through the mouth to keep pace with the increasing intensity.
In the most intense phase of labor, often called the transition, the technique shifts to Patterned Breathing, sometimes known as “hee-hee-hoo.” This involves several shallow, quick breaths followed by a longer, slightly deeper exhale. For instance, the pattern may be three or four shallow inhales and exhales, followed by a light “blow” breath, which helps maintain focus during the peak of the contraction.
How Breathing Techniques Aid Labor
The practice of rhythmic, patterned breathing offers both physiological and psychological benefits during labor. Physiologically, controlled breathing ensures an adequate supply of oxygen to both the uterus and the baby. Holding one’s breath or breathing shallowly in response to pain causes muscle tension and a buildup of carbon dioxide, which can worsen pain perception.
Psychologically, these techniques function as a method of distraction, diverting attention away from pain signals. Concentrating on a specific breathing pattern provides the brain with a predictable, repetitive stimulus, reducing the overall perception of discomfort. This intentional focus helps the birthing person remain present and engaged with the process rather than overwhelmed by the sensations.
Rhythmic breathing also influences the nervous system by activating the parasympathetic “rest and digest” response. This mechanism helps to counteract the sympathetic “fight or flight” response that pain can trigger. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones, controlled breathing helps to lower muscle tension, which may reduce the duration of labor and lessen the need for pharmaceutical pain relief.
Lamaze Today: A Holistic Approach
While Lamaze was historically defined by its breathing exercises, the modern philosophy has expanded to embrace a holistic, evidence-based approach to childbirth education. Today, the organization emphasizes six healthy birth practices that focus on facilitating the natural process of labor. These practices include allowing labor to begin on its own, encouraging movement, and seeking continuous emotional support.
Breathing remains a single component within a broader toolkit of non-pharmacological comfort measures. Modern Lamaze classes teach a variety of coping strategies, such as using different labor positions, applying massage, and utilizing hydrotherapy. The goal is to equip parents with the knowledge to make informed decisions and feel confident navigating the birthing process.
This shift recognizes that birth is a dynamic process requiring flexible and adaptable comfort strategies. The current philosophy champions the idea that all birthing people deserve a safe, healthy, and empowering experience. Breathing techniques are presented as a reliable, ever-present coping strategy that cannot be taken away, even in restrictive hospital environments.