By Linda Castrone, Tribune Media Services 1999
First there were Bible-based aerobics and diet programs. Now Susan “Olivia” Baig may be the first to teach Bible-based childbirth.
The Broomfield, Colo., woman developed the method in preparation for the arrival of her third child. She had used Lamaze breathing techniques for the first two, “but all they did was make me hyperventilate,” she says. Although both babies were healthy, she thought there had to be a better way.
“ I started to read the Scriptures and stories about Jesus’ birth, and everything changed,” Baig says. “I realized that if God created my body, it would know exactly what to do during childbirth if the environment was conducive. Instead of relying on other for relief, I looked inward for strength.”
Elijah, now 1, was born at home after seven hours of what she says was more manageable labor.
Baig, 27, now helps other women tap in faith as a way to manage childbirth. Women learn to breathe as if they were asleep, make forceful utterances, visualize flower buds opening and repeat positive faithful statements. Her instruction is free and taught in her home, or her clients’ homes. Her coaching can range from one session to following a woman through her entire pregnancy and delivery.
Teresa Osborne, also of Broomfield, already has four children, but wants to make her fifth childbirth experience different. So she enrolled with Baig just after conceiving in August, attracted by the idea of learning to better manage her next birth. “During my second labor, I screamed with the pain,” says Osborne, 31. “This time I want to deliver with more dignity.”
Fathers aren’t ignored in Baig’s approach. They’re just given a new role: They’re “protectors of the envirnment” rather than labor coaches. It’s their job to keep the surroundings as quiet as possible and socks on Mom’s feet.
Note from Susana- I think this article turned out great, except for the end! My husband does so much more for me during our births than what is eluded to here. He helps me emotionally and physically, applying counter pressure and generally helping me with my needs. He has less protecting to do with our births being at home, his main job is being there to catch the baby. As for other fathers, I definitely encourage them to be “protectors of the environment,” and so much more.