Definition

Noun: - A specific approach to childbirth that emphasizes creating a gentle, calm, and non-traumatic environment for the newborn immediately after delivery. Key features include subdued lighting, quiet surroundings, delayed cord clamping, placing the infant on the mother's abdomen for immediate skin-to-skin contact, and avoiding forceful manipulation of the baby's head.

Usage

The term is used to describe a holistic birthing philosophy and its associated practices. - The couple chose the Leboyer method of childbirth to prioritize a peaceful transition for their baby. - Advocates of the Leboyer method of childbirth believe it fosters a stronger initial bond.

Advanced Usage

• The method is often contrasted with more traditional, interventionist hospital deliveries of its time (the 1970s). It is considered a precursor to many modern "gentle birth" or "natural birth" practices now more commonly integrated into maternity care.

Variants and Related Words

• Leboyer birth (n): A shorter, more common variant with the same meaning.
  • She had a Leboyer birth at a specialized birthing center.
• Gentle birth (n): A broader, more modern term encompassing philosophies similar to the Leboyer method.

Synonyms

• Gentle birth technique
• Non-traumatic childbirth method

Related Phrases

• Immediate bonding: A core principle of the method, encouraging contact between mother and infant right after birth.
• Skin-to-skin contact: A key practice within the method, where the naked baby is placed on the mother's bare chest.

Noun

1. a method of childbirth that tries to minimize the trauma for the newborn; delivery occurs in a quiet dimly lit room and the infant's head is not pulled and immediate bonding between mother and child is encouraged