I used the Bradley Method 16 years ago with my first child. It was
wonderful! The Bradley method has been around a long time (25+years?).
Anyone who goes through the classes becomes very educated - more than in
other childbirth classes I have attended. It's also one of the most
"natural oriented" classes available. I have noted that most women in our
community do not want to go natural, so the Bradley classes are hard to
find. I am also a pediatric nurse and I know it can be challenging when
you have a mom who knows what she wants and  does not seem to trust the
hospital staff. Many of my hospital colleagues run the other way when
they meet these moms. I don't mind working with them. I understand their
concerns - I've been there myself.
My suggestion is to call your local Bradley instructor and have her give
your staff an inservice. And be opened minded. The material Bradley
teaches is based on real life experiences and research. It's also very
breastfeeding supportive. I have four children. I delivered all naturally
without drugs, iv's or episiotomies. I thank the Bradley method for
teaching me and supporting me with this. I'm not sure if I could have
done it without Bradley.
Deborah Smith, BSN, RN, CPN, IBCLC
Denton, Texas
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