Childbirth Meditation and Advanced Natural Childbirth

Meditation, childbirth meditation, and advanced natural childbirth are defined.
The medical paradigm has been expanding, allowing meditation to be seen as an increasing medical and
psychological resource in the West. This has resulted in inevitable influence on childbirth. The physiological and
psychological benefits of meditation pertaining to pregnant women who meditate are described. Research on
the various meditation hormonal benefits and immune enhancement is summarized. The benefits of meditation
impacting the labor process are described. An expanded vision of childbirth anatomy is described in the context
of meditation methods designed specifically for childbirth. Directions for childbirth meditation research are
discussed. KEY WORDS: Discipline, DHEA, Endorphines, Enrichment, Meditation, Melatonin, Serotonin,
Visualization.