Whether you're considering natural childbirth or opting for medication, Lamaze techniques are the most widely-used natural labor and birthing aids. Check out why so many mothers are choosing this Pavlovian birthing method.

We got all our Lamaze information from Certified Lamaze Coach Lesly T. Federici, RN, BA, LCCE, who so wonderfully developed her own website explaining the philosophy and techniques behind the Lamaze Birthing Method. Check out her website, Leslynotes.com for the whole scoop.

First created to be a Pavlovian response to birthing pain, the Lamaze method was developed by Dr. Lamaze, a French obstetrician who began teaching expectant mothers of the 1950s and '60s how to ease their pain and discomfort through techniques in distraction. Students of Lamaze learn how to distract their mind from discomfort or pain by using imagery, visualization, focusing, movement, touch, and other methods. These skills are put to use during labor.

Nurse Lesly explains in her "What is Lamaze?" article that, "More importantly (than using these skills during labor to reduce discomfort), a Lamaze class helps you to empower yourself through learning about choices and options, nurtures your own individuality, promotes your own 'inner wisdom' to birth your baby, and you'll share a new kind of intimacy with your partner!" What a birthing technique, that empowers as well as educates!

Here's the overview of learning Lamaze, according to Lesly:

• Self-knowledge. Learning about how your body changes and what's happening to it during pregnancy makes you more comfortable and accepting of those changes. Lamaze will give you a solid anatomy and physiology lesson of the pregnant woman as well as what happens during labor.
• Physical exertion. Labor is physical work that takes energy and concentration. But the great reward is the new life you will bring into the world. Lamaze focuses on giving you the tools to ease the discomfort, conserve your energy, and cope with labor while it's happening.
• Every mother's different. Lamaze not only teaches you a set of routine techniques, it also leaves room for you and your partner to use your individuality to make decisions about what works best for the two of you. On the medical side, you will be given options in "pain management" and other medical procedures used during birthing. On the emotional side, you will learn techniques to communicate and share better during labor. Both mother and partner will have an opportunity to learn all their birthing options before making decisions on what is best for them. Most important is that you know exactly what your needs are before you can make educated decisions.
• Breathing lessons. The famous Lamaze breathing techniques and relaxation skills are household words. Distracting youself from pain and discomfort with a rhythmic pattern of breathing helps you not focus on the pain. To learn more about the Lamaze Birthing Method, go visit our new friend Lesly at Leslynotes.com to find information on how to find classes, her birthing philosophy, and other baby chat.

Thanks to Lesly Federici for all her help! We appreciate it!