This web page is published for expecting parents and professionals alike,
who acknowledge the Lord Jesus Christ as the guiding strength during this time of Joy!
© Copyright 2004 - 2005  Cascade Christian Childbirth Association
Last update: October 2005

Cascade Christian Childbirth Association has become a haven for Christian
parents and professionals who want to honor the Lord, strive for a positive birth
experience, and walk away from any outcome with the comfort of knowing that
all things happen for a reason.  Cascade encourages families with the scriptures,
the comfort of the Spirit, and faith in the design of the Creator.  

Faith and Physiology Working Together

It is a well-known fact that fear increases pain and complications during birth.  According to Grantly
Dick-Read, M.D., the body responds to fear by slowing the birth process in an attempt to protect the
baby from what it perceives as a dangerous environment.  The inner layer of the uterus becomes rigid to
counteract the outer layer designed to dilate the cervix.  These two muscles quickly become fatigued
and painful, the mother feels the discomfort, becomes more fearful, and the vicious cycle of fear-tension-
pain has begun.  Many women are diagnosed with “failure” to progress and the need for intervention
often follows.
    The idea of Christian childbirth has many facets, one of them hinging on the faith that even when we
cannot overcome our own fears, God will remove them from us and we will be at perfect peace.  The
scriptures say that God does not give us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and self-control.  They
teach that perfect love casts out fear because fear has to do with torment, therefore Christians can know
that God will take the fear and replace it with trust.   
  Cascade also reminds parents that all things happen for a reason (Romans 8:28), and God will bring
good out of any trial, abolishing guilt and regret and replacing it with peace, understanding, and
acceptance of what happened.   It is the goal of all women, regardless of their faith, to walk away from
the birth experience with a feeling of accomplishment and joy.  Relying on God is a valid way to reduce
fear, directly affecting the physiological aspects of birth.
  
Helping Families Find That Faith

   Many new parents profess to be Christians, yet may not be sure how to integrate spirituality into this
largely thought of “medical event.”  It is important for them to remember the Author of life, and to know
that they can go to Him for guidance and peace.   It is important to remind parents that Christians are
not doomed to have an excruciating and traumatic experience because of Eve.  Christians are no longer
under the consequence of the fall, but are redeemed from the curse of the law (Galatians 3:13) and now
have the freedom to rely on the Holy Spirit that comforts those who call on Him.  They can receive a
calm spirit about them, and a faith that will guide them through the process.  
When parents are aware of the balance between the physiology of fear and its spiritual effect, they are
motivated to set those worries in the hands of their Maker and put all trust in Him.  They can approach
childbirth with a sense of confidence and carry an attitude of joyful anticipation.  This refreshing concept
is more than warm and fuzzy, but is actually physically necessary to allow the body to proceed
uninhibited by fear.

Equipping Servants in the Field

   Cascade Christian Childbirth Association offers community, resources, and referrals for childbirth
professionals.  It offers a certificate in Christian childbirth for birth related practitioners (doctors,
midwives, nurses, etc) and certification for those who are able to challenge the labor doula or birth
educator certification process for general skills.  For those who would like to start a childbirth ministry in
their church, Bible studies and other resources are also available.

Perhaps ninety percent of the birth experience is spiritual, therefore it is vital to nurture the strength of
faith.  Parents can draw upon it during any situation, and walk away with love, joy, and immeasurable
peace.  Practitioners can look upon it for wisdom and direction, finding an ultimate purpose and higher
calling for their work.  Ultimately, the solidity of scriptural encouragement is a highly valuable resource
that can be tapped into by all those who are involved in the miracle of birth!


Kelly J. Townsend is the Founder and President of Cascade Christian Childbirth Association, and
author of Christ Centered Childbirth.  She resides with her family in Phoenix, AZ.  
Cascade Christian Childbirth Association
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