Thursday, June 14, 2007

Preparing for Birth, Part 5


Include your husband


Keep him in the loop. If he’s not able or willing to attend appointments with you, make sure you tell him what the doctor or midwife said. Discuss options with him. You’ll do a lot better if you have his presence and support, and he’ll be much better able to help and support you if he knows what’s going on. Remember, he never has and never will be pregnant or give birth, so all he has to go on is what you tell him! One thing that was especially helpful to Billy was understanding the stages of labor. You know, "OK, this must be transition!"


Know what you want and stick to your guns


While I try to be an easy, undemanding patient, there are some things I’m not going to budge on regardless of what the doctor says, barring actual danger to me or the baby. (I’m not stupid—I do want my baby to be safe.) These non-negotiables will vary from person to person, so just know ahead of time what they are so you’re prepared to stick up for yourself. Again, remember that the doctor works for you.


Keep the goal in mind


Remember that pregnancy and birth aren’t ends in themselves…They are the means of bringing forth a tiny new life, an eternal soul made in the image of God. You are partnering with God in a holy experience!

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