The onset of labour: an alternative theory.
This article, based mainly on the theories and discoveries of Wilhelm Reich (1897-1957), puts forward the bio-energetic theory of the onset of labour, which assumes it to be one of many examples of bio-energetic pulsation in the organism. It suggests that chronic muscular tension ('armouring') interferes with this spontaneous pulsation and may account for many of the difficulties experienced by women in labour. A form of psychotherapy ('orgone-therapy') based on these theories may prove helpful in childbirth education, in the non-intrusive induction of labour, and in labour itself. A research project to test this hypothesis is suggested.
Jones
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D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007743:Labor, Obstetric / Q000523:psychology*; D009742:Nursing Theory; D009773:Obstetric Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D011247:Pregnancy; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000628:therapy*