Friday, March 12, 2010

Birthing class...

Last Saturday my husband and I attended our birthing class. We did not know what to expect but we were pleasantly surprised and had a wonderful time.

We discussed all the details of labor and what to expect. We also watched a few videos as well. The instructor was the best. We took her child care class a few months ago and really enjoyed her style of teaching. She did not hold anything back. She was very frank as to how labor would be and what we could look forward to. We talked about complications that could arise, when to come to the hospital and when to stay at home and labor there. I learned so much and feel better about the process. They also gave us a wonderful book with tons of info in there. We have been reading it and every day feel more prepared.

Out of everyone there, I was the only one having a natural birth. That surprised me, for some reason I though there would be more. I guess I am the only crazy one! LOL! They told us that 9 out of 10 women that come to the hospital have epidurals and meds during birth. Now I have to make this VERY clear, to me there is nothing wrong with having one, but I want to do this naturally. I feel very strong about it. But that is me and does not mean that epidurals are the best way to go for other women. I understand that everyone's labor is different and you never can know what will happen. I have talked to my doctor and he feels strongly that I will have a good labor but we never know how it will be. If needed we discussed having one after 8 hours or so as to not put stress on the baby. BUT, my desire is to experience her birth naturally. I know it will be a pain beyond anything that my mind can comprehend but I feel that I am mentally prepared as best as I can be.

Anyways, during one of the videos we watched, they were teaching us breathing techniques and positions to help with contractions and pushing. My husband and I were the only ones who got on the floor and did all the exercises and practiced the breathing while everyone else watched us. The instructor told everyone they could try them out but I guess they were too embarrassed or thought they did not need to learn the techniques. I know for me, I wanted to practice each and every position as I am going to need to know what to do in order to ease the pain as best as I can. It was fun. My husband was wonderful. He was breathing with me and doing all the postions. There was a couple there who was having a c-section so I understand why they did not do the breathing etc... but for the rest of the people I do not know why they did not try them out, but everyone is different and that is ok.

We learned so much in the class and I have to say the best part was in the beginning of the class, my husband leaned over to me and said, " I am so happy to be here. I would not have missed this for the world!" That made my day! He was kissing my hand throughout the class, bringing me water... SO sweet! He is so precious and I love how he is embracing every second of this pregnancy.

Here are some photos of us at the hospital where we will be having Michaela -



6 comments:

Tigerlilly said...

I gave birth to two beautiful girls. The first one I was too freaked out about delivery so i had an epidural. It was a very smooth delivery and all went fine. By my second daughter I decided to go natural... all i will tell you is that I was more involved in the delivery with the epidural...without it I was in too much pain to understand what was going on in and around me. All I could focus on was the pain of it all.

I now help deliver babies and am supportive of both natural and medicated deliveries. Keep practicing the breathing techniques, they will be the best thing to get your through it.

Your in my prayers.Good luck and enjoy every second!
<3

teacherwoman said...

Sounds like you are ready! I applaud you for wanting to go without an epidural! You can do it!

The pics are great!

Anonymous said...

You know what I find a little sad about this post? All those other couples in your class who are not participating are going to be raising children. Forget the birth part of it. For the next 18-plus years, they better get off the couch and get involved!

OK - I am off my soapbox. I don't even have kids!

You look absolutely beautiful! You guys will have a wonderful birth experience and will make great parents. I am sure of it!

erin said...

You two are so sweet! I know you will be great parents!

moonwolf58 said...

I ended up with an epidural and eventually a C-section w/my first son, mainly due to his position and pre-eclampsia (two things you do not have to worry about). However, my second son, who was supposed to be a repeat C-section due to size could not wait. I went into labor less than 5hrs before my scheduled section and was already crowning by the time I was admitted to L&D. So, no meds, no nothing. No time to think :) I have to say it was a very empowering experience. Pushing just came naturally. Would have done it again in a heart beat. Pain, yes, but you are so prepared and have such great support. You will be fine. And that being said, if you find you need a little help, that is ok too! May your experience be all that you hope for. Bless all three of you.

Anonymous said...

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