The LPN is discussing childbirth classes with a patient who is 30 weeks gestation. The patient shares that she hopes to deliver a baby who is awake and alert. The LPN is aware of Lamaze and Bradley classes being offered. For which reasons would the LPN recommend Bradley classes to this patient? Select all that apply.

Choice A reason:

The Bradley method teaches the labor partner how to coach and support the mother during labor. This is true because the Bradley method emphasizes the role of the partner as an active participant and a skilled coach who can help the mother relax, breathe, and cope with pain during labor. The partner also serves as an advocate for the mother's preferences and needs in the hospital setting.

Choice B reason:

The Bradley method teaches the mother and partner about the variety of methods to control pain. This is false because the Bradley method does not teach a variety of methods to control pain, but rather focuses on relaxation as the main way to reduce pain during labor. The Bradley method also discourages the use of medication or medical interventions for pain relief, unless they are medically necessary.

Choice C reason:

The Bradley method prepares the woman to deliver without medical interventions and medications. This is true because the Bradley method aims to help women have an unmedicated birth with minimal medical intervention. The Bradley method teaches women how to avoid unnecessary interventions and how to cope with natural labor by using relaxation, breathing, nutrition, and exercise. The Bradley method also educates women on how to reduce their risk of having a C-section and what to do if it becomes medically necessary.

Choice D reason:

The Bradley method focuses on muscle control because muscle tension increases the pain of labor. This is false because the Bradley method does not focus on muscle control, but rather on deep and complete relaxation during labor. The Bradley method believes that muscle tension interferes with the natural process of labor and increases pain, so it teaches women how to relax their muscles and let their bodies do the work.

Choice E reason:

The Bradley method is the most widely used method in the US. This is false because the Bradley method is not the most widely used method in the US, but rather one of several options for natural childbirth. According to a 2017 survey by Listening to Mothers, only 4% of women reported using the Bradley method for their most recent birth, compared to 48% who used Lamaze, 14% who used hypnobirthing, and 9% who used other methods.