Last weekend, my husband and I attended a marathon labor and delivery course offered by the hospital and women’s center where I will give birth in just a mere 6 weeks! My doctor suggested it since we will be first-timers.
First of all, I should tell you I am the type of person who is utterly terrified of this whole process. I refused to read anything up until it got closer to time and I am definitely NOT the type of person who watches a birth story on television! So, I thought it would probably be a good idea to go and hear what I was going to be in for.
I really thought that it would scare me more, but, that was not the case. I learned a lot, and realized I knew more than I was giving myself credit for. Actually, the class put me more at ease. The lady who led the class was very low key and friendly. She was open to questions and very helpful. The cool thing about taking a marathon Saturday class was that we were one of only three couples who were in attendance. So, it was like a private class!
I learned a lot about timing contractions, breathing through contractions, and post delivery care, all of which I knew nothing about. My husband also found it very helpful and I am so glad he was able to go with me since he will be my labor coach. I feel better knowing he heard everything I did and he is gearing up for the “job” ahead. He and I have always been a team and I can’t think of anyone else I would want to go through this with.
So, now after having attended the birthing class I am anxiously awaiting our little arrival. I wouldn’t say that I am ready for “D” day just yet, but I am getting very excited about the idea of meeting my little guy for the first time! I have an idea of what I would like to happen. I would like to try to see how long I can go without an epidural (I know some of you think I have absolutely lost it!) and possibly do this naturally or with pain medications (other than an epidural). I’m not closed-minded to having an epidural, I just don’t want to bust through the hospital doors asking for one immediately. Maybe I won’t need it, maybe I will. Either way, I feel better knowing my options and coming in with a small toolbox of tricks after attending the class. If you are expecting, especially for the first time, I would highly recommend taking a labor and delivery class. Most hospitals offer them or your doctor can suggest somewhere for you to go. My husband and I both found it very worthwhile. The old saying still holds true… knowledge is power.