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December 2010 Moms
Advice
Because we all love unsolicited advice, I'm going to offer up some... 
Not that I am a pro in any way, but after two stints in L&D that have been nothing short of dramatic, I thought that maybe I would contribute a few thoughts to the big D-Day to help you ladies prepare.
1. That whole "My water just broke, I need to shower and shave" nonsense is truly that - nonsense. I didn't have time to shave (although I did do a quick rinse in the shower, mostly because I knew it would be a while until I got another one) and let me tell you - the hospital staff is so focused on you and baby that they don't even notice the hair. TRUST ME.
2. Whatever your biggest, most embarrassing moment fear might be...well, get over it because your most embarrassing moment is going to be way worse than what you feared but by then, you won't care. Take this from the bed-wetter...you just get to the point when you realize that the worst thing that could happen probably will. So go ahead, wet the bed and do it with pride because you're having a baby!
3. Hospital bag? Who needs a hospital bag? Okay, I type this while DH runs out to the store to get ours together BUT in all reality, you think you need a whole bunch of stuff but if you stroll in with nothing but the clothes on your back, the hospital provides the basics and it's enough to get you through a couple days. So don't stress too much if you go into labor a bit early - plus, you have enough people that can run to the store to buy whatever you might need.
4. When they tell you that you can eat anything from outside the hospital, don't order from Taco Bell like it is your last meal. I sent DH out to get 12 doughnut holes, a large doughnut and a few apples...I got about halfway through the doughnut holes (and the eggs provided by hospital) and ended up with my face in the puke bucket for hours. I promise, you will eat again so take it easy...you really don't want to be known as the girl who pees the bed and pukes all over her husband.
5. Everything that you are there for will involve and include your lady parts. Why are we so surprised by this? I was SHOCKED at how often my parts were checked and at first, I was shy and tried to keep covered as much as possible. By the end of my stay, the nurses were walking in to find me totally spread eagle (surprisingly very comfortable during contractions) and at that point, I could have slept through the exams. You get used to it, I promise...it really isn't THAT bad...and I'm a very modest person.
Alright, there is your advice that you never wanted, but because I'm awake and between doses of drugs, I had this moment of clarity and thought that I would offer my thoughts on the big L&D stay.
By the way - does anybody bump from their I-Phone? Is there an app for it? I am using my web browser on my phone and it wont let me type a message. Using my laptop for now, but if we end up back in the hospital anytime soon, I'd like to be able to update from phone. Any ideas? Thanks!
This discussion has been closed.
Re: Advice
I don't have an iphone, so I can't help you there.
Thanks for the advice. I still have it in my head that when my water breaks, I am taking a shower and shaving. I will keep this in my head until my water breaks! As far as getting over your fears, my goal is to poop on everyone. And now, to pee and throw up on everyone too (thanks, chicky
).
PS- I hope your feeling a little better.
Yes-there is an app!