We started our birthing class at Abbott on Tuesday. It seemed to me like 3 hours of question and answer, which was okay, but I'm excited to actually start talking about stages of labor and natural coping methods for pain management. I can't even really remember what the point of the first class was, uh oh.
I was surprised to find out that 40 percent of the class is going to be surprised about the gender of their baby. I was under the impression that fewer people found out. Maybe that just because I've heard from so many people that we're crazy for waiting. I am getting super anxious, but it's fun.
Another interesting thing- 70 percent of the class was certain they would have the epidural. I certainly don't want to offend anyone who has had an epidural, and I'm not trying to sound snotty or proud, but I don't understand how you would "know" that the pain is going to be completely unbearable when it's your first pregnancy. I know it's going to hurt like hell, but I'm not going to walk into the hospital and ask for an epidural right away. While I'm hoping to be able to do the whole thing naturally, I am being realistic. The pain could be completely unbearable, or I'll be in the 2nd stage of labor for 12 hours and need sleep, or who knows what may happen. I just don't understand why anyone would tell themselves they aren’t going to be able to handle it. And, if they didn't come up with the plan on their own, who thought it was a good idea to tell someone the pain will be too much to handle? If you need one, okay, no big deal. But a questions to the two ladies who said they were positive they'll get the epidural as soon as the doc says they can... Why?
I know I'm super biased. You could call me a masochist. I dont like medicine. Midol makes my head float and narcotics make me vomit. I don't take cold meds or anything for headaches. Give me water and a nap. I'm more afraid of the effects of the epidural than the pain of labor. Is that weird?
Anyway... hoping off the soap box for now.
I had the infamous gestation diabetes test on Wednesday. I don't have diabetes, so that's good. The nurse who drew my blood was a pro. I didn't feel a thing! The RHoGAM shot wasn't too bad. I may have to request her for any additional blood draws or shots.
How far along: 28 weeks
Maternity Clothes: So frustrating. I'm in between sizes. But I did find a cute skirt and I have a feeling I'll be wearing it at least once a week.
Stretch Marks: None.
Sleep: I finally figured out how to sleep well. the fan. ahhh. as long as the room is cool enough I'll be fine.
Best Moment this Week: No diabetes!
Movement: I'm loving that I can tell what is a butt and a leg.
Food Cravings: cucumbers and anything fresh. it's a sign of spring and my garden i get to plant soon
Gender: Had my first boy dream last night, perhaps the girl dreams are over.
Labor Signs: First, I'm leaking and second, braxton hicks contractions are weird. I had a bunch when Ben and I went on a walk the other day. I over did it a bit with 4 miles after my diabetes appt and the BH contractions were certainly a sign from my body to slow down.
Belly Button: still an innie, but it's turning into a frown.
What I Miss: shopping with success.
What I'm Looking Forward to this Week: the baby shower on Saturday
Weekly Wisdom: Dont drink a glass of water and go on a 4 mile walk.
Look at it from a different angle. You'd never go to the dentist determined to have a tooth pulled without Novocaine. I think for a lot of women it's the same frame of mind. If there's a relatively safe way to minimize pain, why wouldn't I? The side effects and potential risk may not be worth it to you but perhaps for other women, the stress of unimaginable pain is a bigger concern. Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteThats a perfect way to explain it. Thanks, Kel!
ReplyDeleteVery well put @Kelly. Reemer—my labor was obviously speedy, so I can't attest to how the difficulty of contractions magnifies with fatigue. BUT, I did go through all stages sans any type of pain medication. You CAN do it. It wasn't unbearable. It was just considerably more stressful for everyone in the room (not just because of the speed). Plus, there was no "taking it easy" to accommodate your lady parts. ;) Once it hurts that bad, you PUSH. Looking forward to seeing/hearing how your story unfolds!
ReplyDeleteI wanted to have an all natural delivery but all my contractions were in my back and the pain was too much to bear. The epidural was the best decision I could have made, especially seeing as I was in labor for 32 hours. I realized it was even better when I found out that I had a second degree tear after Jonathan came out.
ReplyDeleteI really hope you are able to have your baby the way you like, and I hope your labor is quick and painless :)