Everyone has their own method

To enjoy pregnancy and labour, there are various methods that can be adopted to get ready for labour and parenthood: communication with the foetus through sensory stimulation, yoga, singing.... Choose the method that suits you best depending on your sensitivity, and your lifestyle.

The traditional method

The traditional method of preparing for labour is based on relaxation and breathing. It can be done individually or in a group from the 7th month of pregnancy.

This method allows you to experience pregnancy in a relaxed manner and to understand changes to a pregnant body and the progress of labour. 

In the sessions, the midwife will teach you how to recognise contractions, about being in the right position to facilitate labour, and about breathing and relaxing. 

Courses are often offered in the maternity hospital and are run by a midwife.

Communication with foetus through sensory stimulation

This is based on tactile and emotional relationships between the parents and the baby (caresses, gently pressure on the stomach, sound of voice, etc.). It encourages closeness through contact and communication between the baby and parents.

The father can develop a strong bond and closeness with the baby using this method;

It is done towards the end of the fourth month of pregnancy, from the first active movements of the baby.

It is not done in all maternity hospitals.

Yoga

Yoga, balance of body and mind, combines suppleness and muscular relaxation. It can also lessen anxiety and fears with movements that are calming and relaxing.

Selecting the right yoga class is important:  it must be suited for pregnant women, because some movements can cause premature labour.

Yoga classes can be done from the fourth month of pregnancy and after delivery.

Relaxation therapy

Relaxation therapy is a relaxation method focused on breathing. It encourages the visualisation of positive images and teaches awareness of changes to the body and the baby's presence.

Relaxation therapy sessions can be started during the last trimester, eight sessions conducted by a midwife are reimbursed by social security.

Prenatal singing

Singing encourages intra-uterine communication and closeness with the baby. It improves breathing with breathing exercises, stretches, pelvic movements. Singing exercises allows better control of the body and allows the various parts of the stomach to be discovered. Singing is not only for mothers, fathers can participate too.

Sessions can be conducted by midwives but also by musicians.

Aqua aerobics

This allows the mother-to-be to relax and fight against stress and pain in pregnancy. It is also a way of keeping one's figure.

Exercises are based on improving breathing and on aquatic movements which soften muscles.

Sessions are run in a pool by midwives and swim instructors.