Preparing for Childbirth

Guided Imagery Exercises to Ease Labor & Delivery

A woman's body is perfectly designed to bring a baby into this world, teaches Dr. Martin L. Rossman, and women who prepare themselves for childbirth experience shorter labors, less discomfort, and fewer complications.

On Preparing for Childbirth, Dr. Rossman, a leading expert in therapeutic guided imagery, teaches you three proven exercises to allow the natural process of labor and delivery to take place while feeling focused, confident, and well-prepared.

Suggestions for Working with Guided Imagery:
• For your own safety and the safety of others, never listen to guided imagery exercises while you are driving or operating dangerous equipment
• A quiet, darkened place, or an eye pillow, may make it easier to concentrate
• Try headphones or speakers if you have the choice and see which one you prefer
• Get comfortable and feel free to move anytime to stay comfortable
• Let your answering machine answer the phone, turn off the ringer, or unplug the phone
• Tell your housemates that you d like to be undisturbed for about 30 minutes, unless there is a genuine emergency
• Taking some time to write or draw about your experience afterward is a good way to deepen your experience with your guided imagery