In the hospital

Re: In the hospital

• KayaXavier

  July 2012

  Honestly, it is too late to do your research now. Just be gentle on yourself. It is very difficult to have a Pitocin augmented labor naturally, though it is possible. I would ask to be kept on the lowest possible dose and use birthing ball, squat bar, tub, various positions besides laying on your back, whatever your hospital can offer in the way of non-medicinal pain management. Don't feel disappointed in yourself if you find it necessary to have medication. When we say natural birth, it generally means unaugmented, spontaneous delivery. Good luck, congratulations, you can do it and ultimately, all that matters is that you and your child are healthy.

  Report0 Reply
• Loading the player...
• jellybeanjean member

  July 2012

  KayaXavier:

  Honestly, it is too late to do your research now. Just be gentle on yourself. It is very difficult to have a Pitocin augmented labor naturally, though it is possible. I would ask to be kept on the lowest possible dose and use birthing ball, squat bar, tub, various positions besides laying on your back, whatever your hospital can offer in the way of non-medicinal pain management. Don't feel disappointed in yourself if you find it necessary to have medication. When we say natural birth, it generally means unaugmented, spontaneous delivery. Good luck, congratulations, you can do it and ultimately, all that matters is that you and your child are healthy.

  Pretty much this.  I'm assuming since there's a known cord that they're going to want you monitored pretty much continuously, possibly limiting positions.  Do what you have to do to get through it -- try to move as much as possible and don't tense up during the ctx.  Hang in there!  You'll get to meet your little boy soon!
  

  

  Report0 Reply
• jennakg member

  July 2012

  What birth class were you going to take?   

  I haven't done this yet myself but here's my 2 cents:

  Relax.  Don't be scared.  When you're scared Fight or Flight kicks in and your body only puts blood where it "needs" it at the arms (to fight) and at the legs (to run away).  This means that your uterus, a very important muscle in labor, doesn't have sufficient blood flow to it and makes contractions painful.  Just try and relax.  It doesn't have to be painful.  Maybe not entirely comfortable, but not painful.

  Endorphins are the strongest pain-killer out there.  Have someone do light touch massage on your back during surges/contractions.  Laughter releases endorphins too so watch a funny movie if you can.  

  Good luck!  You will do great! 

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Report0 Reply
• alimaried

  July 2012

  It's not too late to be empowered and feel in control of your experience. Keep a support person close, stay calm however works for you, and know that when you're nearing transition it is natural for you to begin to self doubt (this is when women tend to opt for an epi) so have your support person prepared to encourage you and stay positive! Because once you reach that point, it's almost  time to push and see your baby! If possible, surround yourself with scents, pictures, foods, anything else that is comforting to you and keep the lights dim. And don't underestimate the relief of a hot bath/shower. The nurses can wait to monitor you or use a doppler here and there to check on baby. Hoping labor and delivery goes well and is a safe, enjoyable experience for your new family!

  Report0 Reply
• 3003girl member

  July 2012

  I did not have an induced labor, but lo did have the cord wrapped around her neck. I was at a birth center and they monitored her heartbeat during each contraction to make sure it didn't dip down too far. It was within range each time. The cord was also short, so they actually cut and clamped it while she was in the birth canal because she would not come out any further. 

  Like pp said, try not to be scared. Labor for me was really uncomfortable and yes painful at times, but it's kind of like wind sprints. It sucks, but you get breaks and it's not forever. Positive thoughts! You will do great! Keep repeating that you can do it, and make sure people know to support you during transition. Good luck! 

  

  Report0 Reply
• honeybaby2012 member

  July 2012

  Thanks ladies.  Its great to hear all of your supportive words.  

  

  Report0 Reply
• julyjennifer member

  July 2012

  Sending positive vibes your way.  You could practice tonight as you fall asleep (maybe you're already asleep) relaxing one part of your body at a time (your face, your shoulders, your arms).  I found that exercise to be helpful during contractions. 

   

  Warning No formatter is installed for the format bbhtml

  Report0 Reply