this may be a question for the high risk board, but has anyone on here gone into labor knowing they were high risk (especially blood loss and heart failure) and requested certain things in the room? I have a ton of people saying they would donate blood in the case I need emergency transfusions- have people planned for that route and if so, what all did they need to do?
AliciaD39 Have you brought this up with your OB? What did he/she say? Are you at high risk for blood loss or have you hemorrhaged before? What is your Heart situation? Are you going to be delivering in an ICU setting?
I can't answer this question for your hospital, but where I used to work, each laboring (or c-section) patient was graded on their risk to hemorrhage.
(Here's the long-version if you are interested): Not everyone who was High Risk had a hemorrhage, and being Low Risk didn't 100% preclude you, but it was a place to start. For example, my last pregnancy was twins, so I was automatically Moderate risk. This delivery will at least be moderate risk because I am a repeat c-section, with my last c-section being a vertical incision. When you are Moderate or High Risk, 2 samples of your blood are sent to the Blood Bank (upstairs), so that your blood type can be checked and verified ahead of any possible bleed. Then, 2 units of blood are placed on Hold for a set number of hours, in case you need it. Should massive blood loss occur, there is a Massive Transfusion Protocol in place to literally bring a cooler of O Neg RBCs to the operating room, platelets too, if needed. Most OB hemorrhages involved the uterus/cervix area & associated arteries (c-s only), unless there is an underlying clotting disorder.
I'm going to on the next visit. The last few visits have been focusing on some tests that didn't come back where they should with my heart so I was trying to focus on one thing at a time.
I have cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) that has led to stage 4 heart failure in the past. It was from a virus, but they are concerned being pregnant/delivering will cause me to regress back into heart failure given the stress. That is one reason they want me to deliver a little early (so the baby is slightly smaller) and C-Section I would lose more blood so it would make it more likely for my heart to struggle.
It's tough because my cardiologist who knows my case is at one hospital, my ob-gyn at another, and my MFM at a third (he doesn't do any deliveries). Unfortunately, that is just how it has to be for where I live, but it does make be worried because I love them all, but I'm constantly circling around to get answers.
Thanks so much - I'll definitely discuss further with my doctors on what they think I should do ahead of time.
@doozer1345 sounds like your doctor is very on top of it!
this may be a question for the high risk board, but has anyone on here gone into labor knowing they were high risk (especially blood loss and heart failure) and requested certain things in the room? I have a ton of people saying they would donate blood in the case I need emergency transfusions- have people planned for that route and if so, what all did they need to do?
AliciaD39 Have you brought this up with your OB? What did he/she say? Are you at high risk for blood loss or have you hemorrhaged before? What is your Heart situation? Are you going to be delivering in an ICU setting?
I can't answer this question for your hospital, but where I used to work, each laboring (or c-section) patient was graded on their risk to hemorrhage.
(Here's the long-version if you are interested): Not everyone who was High Risk had a hemorrhage, and being Low Risk didn't 100% preclude you, but it was a place to start. For example, my last pregnancy was twins, so I was automatically Moderate risk. This delivery will at least be moderate risk because I am a repeat c-section, with my last c-section being a vertical incision. When you are Moderate or High Risk, 2 samples of your blood are sent to the Blood Bank (upstairs), so that your blood type can be checked and verified ahead of any possible bleed. Then, 2 units of blood are placed on Hold for a set number of hours, in case you need it. Should massive blood loss occur, there is a Massive Transfusion Protocol in place to literally bring a cooler of O Neg RBCs to the operating room, platelets too, if needed. Most OB hemorrhages involved the uterus/cervix area & associated arteries (c-s only), unless there is an underlying clotting disorder.
I'm going to on the next visit. The last few visits have been focusing on some tests that didn't come back where they should with my heart so I was trying to focus on one thing at a time.
I have cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) that has led to stage 4 heart failure in the past. It was from a virus, but they are concerned being pregnant/delivering will cause me to regress back into heart failure given the stress. That is one reason they want me to deliver a little early (so the baby is slightly smaller) and C-Section I would lose more blood so it would make it more likely for my heart to struggle.
It's tough because my cardiologist who knows my case is at one hospital, my ob-gyn at another, and my MFM at a third (he doesn't do any deliveries). Unfortunately, that is just how it has to be for where I live, but it does make be worried because I love them all, but I'm constantly circling around to get answers.
Thanks so much - I'll definitely discuss further with my doctors on what they think I should do ahead of time.
@doozer1345 sounds like your doctor is very on top of it!
@AliciaD39 I would also suggest discussing a living will specifically for your care while hospitalized for delivery. You could likely have it drafted and have each of the specialists and OB weigh in so they're all on the same page, which would probably help you worry less knowing everyone agrees on a game plan for your care. My hospital asked for one during registration but it wasn't a requirement. I kept a copy in my hospital bag. Just a suggestion!
@Soontobejones33 I had my hospital bag by the door and slowly added things to it as the third tri went on. Around 37w I put it in my car since mine is the family vehicle with the car seat and I knew it would be the car we took to the hospital. It worked out well for us.
I had mine at home, and even though I was past my due date, for some reason I was in complete denial that I'd need it with me since I was planning to labor at home as long as I could with our doula. Things changed, my post-dates ultrasound and NST weren't as good as they wanted to I was sent to the hospital from the midwives office. Thinking through it logically -- we have 2 cars, so if I keep it in my car at the end, it'll be with me if we meet at the hospital (like we did with DD). If we get to be at home as planned, DH can go out and get it. I'd say by the door or car is probably best, even if the detailed items aren't in there yet.
Wow - I have to say I am surprised at the questions. I figured there would be a TON of people asking about pooping on the table. Can't say I'm worried about it, personally, but I've heard people fretting about it.
Didn't expect to see so many questions about the IV. This is the least of my worries! I've never had a bad IV experience but then I have the kinds of veins people can (and have) practice on. The hand IVs can be uncomfortable but for me, never been a big deal.
Wow - I have to say I am surprised at the questions. I figured there would be a TON of people asking about pooping on the table. Can't say I'm worried about it, personally, but I've heard people fretting about it.
Didn't expect to see so many questions about the IV. This is the least of my worries! I've never had a bad IV experience but then I have the kinds of veins people can (and have) practice on. The hand IVs can be uncomfortable but for me, never been a big deal.
I'm also surprised by the IV questions...this will be the least of your worries when your enduring contractions! If you've ever had blood taken I find an IV being placed no different.
Has anyone started packing their hospital bag yet? Or making a list for packing? Or packed their diaper bag? Do I take both to the hospital so I know baby's stuff is in one and mine is in another? I know there was a bag thread going a while ago...everyone packs different stuff other than the serious basics so I still have no idea where to start!!! I'm one of those super organised people so the fact that I haven't even started making a list is freaking me out a little!
@ayeshaoharaThere's a hospital bag thread on here we had not too long ago but I don't think we discussed when we are packing the hosp bag. I went through some drawers yesterday and pulled out some things I want to wear in the hospital so I'm slowly but surely starting. I didn't bring the diaper bag. We also only planned to go from the hospital to home so we didn't need anything.
Been married since 2009. Unicornuate Uterus (yes I menstruate glitter) Several MCs DD born 2013 (our miracle "you can't have babies" baby!)
I'll start packing my hospital bag when I get closer to 36 weeks since I'm not high risk to go early and a lot of the clothes I will wear at the hospital are maternity/nursing nightgowns that I'm wearing now. The only thing I packed for the baby were a couple of going home outfits and a blankets. We will use one blanket to the first day and then take it home for the pets to sniff and get used too, the rest are just for the car seat and the ride home. The hospital will have everything else you need for the baby
Im a FTM but a friend of mine from back home (Australia) who is expecting #3 highly recommended a book to me to help with managing pain if you're planning to try naturally and med free. It's written by a physiotherapist in Sydney and focuses on using your body including visualization, vocalisation, physical movements etc to prepare your body and manage your pain. Its called Birth Skills by Juju sundin. I have just finished reading and would HIGHLY recommend it. It has made me much more confident with my decision to try and deliver naturally. What I love it that it talks about all options and isn't about necessarily about being med free and refusing an epidural but at least trying to labour naturally for as long as you're able to...because some things are out of our control.
I'm scared as hell but going in with a plan to manage the pain that doesn't immediately include an epidural is important to me. I feel like the book has really prepare me for that. Also she spends time making sure you really understand what is happening to your body at each stage and why you feel certain things...having that understanding makes it easier for you to focus and push through!!
Thank you for the book recommendation. I asked my doctor about this just this morning, as I am not taking birthing classes and want to read up on ways to prepare for an un-medicated birth ( if I am able to last ). She really didnt have any suggestions other than "what to expect"... Will check this out tonight.
Im a FTM but a friend of mine from back home (Australia) who is expecting #3 highly recommended a book to me to help with managing pain if you're planning to try naturally and med free. It's written by a physiotherapist in Sydney and focuses on using your body including visualization, vocalisation, physical movements etc to prepare your body and manage your pain. Its called Birth Skills by Juju sundin. I have just finished reading and would HIGHLY recommend it. It has made me much more confident with my decision to try and deliver naturally. What I love it that it talks about all options and isn't about necessarily about being med free and refusing an epidural but at least trying to labour naturally for as long as you're able to...because some things are out of our control.
I'm scared as hell but going in with a plan to manage the pain that doesn't immediately include an epidural is important to me. I feel like the book has really prepare me for that. Also she spends time making sure you really understand what is happening to your body at each stage and why you feel certain things...having that understanding makes it easier for you to focus and push through!!
Thank you for the book recommendation. I asked my doctor about this just this morning, as I am not taking birthing classes and want to read up on ways to prepare for an un-medicated birth ( if I am able to last ). She really didnt have any suggestions other than "what to expect"... Will check this out tonight.
What to Expect isn't heavy on how to handle an unmedicated birth. My top recommendation for prepping for unmedicated birth is Ina May's Guide to Childbirth. Such a great read. The first half is all birth stories. The second half is what unmedicated birth looks like and how to stay out of the fear-tension-pain cycle for an easier, possibly even pleasurable birthing experience. Lots and lots of ideas for staying confomfortable and preventing the need for interventions.
Im a FTM but a friend of mine from back home (Australia) who is expecting #3 highly recommended a book to me to help with managing pain if you're planning to try naturally and med free. It's written by a physiotherapist in Sydney and focuses on using your body including visualization, vocalisation, physical movements etc to prepare your body and manage your pain. Its called Birth Skills by Juju sundin. I have just finished reading and would HIGHLY recommend it. It has made me much more confident with my decision to try and deliver naturally. What I love it that it talks about all options and isn't about necessarily about being med free and refusing an epidural but at least trying to labour naturally for as long as you're able to...because some things are out of our control.
I'm scared as hell but going in with a plan to manage the pain that doesn't immediately include an epidural is important to me. I feel like the book has really prepare me for that. Also she spends time making sure you really understand what is happening to your body at each stage and why you feel certain things...having that understanding makes it easier for you to focus and push through!!
Thank you for the book recommendation. I asked my doctor about this just this morning, as I am not taking birthing classes and want to read up on ways to prepare for an un-medicated birth ( if I am able to last ). She really didnt have any suggestions other than "what to expect"... Will check this out tonight.
What to Expect isn't heavy on how to handle an unmedicated birth. My top recommendation for prepping for unmedicated birth is Ina May's Guide to Childbirth. Such a great read. The first half is all birth stories. The second half is what unmedicated birth looks like and how to stay out of the fear-tension-pain cycle for an easier, possibly even pleasurable birthing experience. Lots and lots of ideas for staying confomfortable and preventing the need for interventions.
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Sounds like similar stuff to what's in the one I read! So useful. Lots of stories spread throughout too.
@yogahh I don't want to do any classes either so it was important to me to find one resource I liked and go with that. You won't be disappointed. I feel like I've learnt some good life lessons too!!
Im a FTM but a friend of mine from back home (Australia) who is expecting #3 highly recommended a book to me to help with managing pain if you're planning to try naturally and med free. It's written by a physiotherapist in Sydney and focuses on using your body including visualization, vocalisation, physical movements etc to prepare your body and manage your pain. Its called Birth Skills by Juju sundin. I have just finished reading and would HIGHLY recommend it. It has made me much more confident with my decision to try and deliver naturally. What I love it that it talks about all options and isn't about necessarily about being med free and refusing an epidural but at least trying to labour naturally for as long as you're able to...because some things are out of our control.
I'm scared as hell but going in with a plan to manage the pain that doesn't immediately include an epidural is important to me. I feel like the book has really prepare me for that. Also she spends time making sure you really understand what is happening to your body at each stage and why you feel certain things...having that understanding makes it easier for you to focus and push through!!
Thank you for the book recommendation. I asked my doctor about this just this morning, as I am not taking birthing classes and want to read up on ways to prepare for an un-medicated birth ( if I am able to last ). She really didnt have any suggestions other than "what to expect"... Will check this out tonight.
What to Expect isn't heavy on how to handle an unmedicated birth. My top recommendation for prepping for unmedicated birth is Ina May's Guide to Childbirth. Such a great read. The first half is all birth stories. The second half is what unmedicated birth looks like and how to stay out of the fear-tension-pain cycle for an easier, possibly even pleasurable birthing experience. Lots and lots of ideas for staying confomfortable and preventing the need for interventions.
Edit for auto correct fail
I've read two Ina May books. Maybe it's just me but I didn't like them. They felt like marketing material for The Farm to me. Some of the stories came across as not sincere and probably written by the midwives themselves. Or maybe I'm just really cynical?
@yogahhmy BFF's husband was born on Ina's farm! His mother is definitely out of her mind and is featured in one of Ina's naked birthing videos, she actually pressured my BFF to watched it with her which seriously scarred my BFF for life (I can't even imagine). The farm sounds like a crazy hippie place that did not prepare anyone for real life, her MIL is totally out to lunch. True story, the first time she babysat her granddaughter (BFF's niece) the MIL tried to "breastfeed the baby" when she cried. Now, this woman is in her 60s and there was no milk to be feeding the baby with aside from the fact that it was a totally inappropriate thing to do anyway. When confronted about it she said "everyone breastfed each others babies on the farm." She still sees nothing wrong with what she did. Needless to say, she is now always supervised when spending time with her granddaughter.
Anyway, quite unrelated but had to share. I haven't read Ina's book yet but I'm planning to.
Im a FTM but a friend of mine from back home (Australia) who is expecting #3 highly recommended a book to me to help with managing pain if you're planning to try naturally and med free. It's written by a physiotherapist in Sydney and focuses on using your body including visualization, vocalisation, physical movements etc to prepare your body and manage your pain. Its called Birth Skills by Juju sundin. I have just finished reading and would HIGHLY recommend it. It has made me much more confident with my decision to try and deliver naturally. What I love it that it talks about all options and isn't about necessarily about being med free and refusing an epidural but at least trying to labour naturally for as long as you're able to...because some things are out of our control.
I'm scared as hell but going in with a plan to manage the pain that doesn't immediately include an epidural is important to me. I feel like the book has really prepare me for that. Also she spends time making sure you really understand what is happening to your body at each stage and why you feel certain things...having that understanding makes it easier for you to focus and push through!!
Thank you for the book recommendation. I asked my doctor about this just this morning, as I am not taking birthing classes and want to read up on ways to prepare for an un-medicated birth ( if I am able to last ). She really didnt have any suggestions other than "what to expect"... Will check this out tonight.
What to Expect isn't heavy on how to handle an unmedicated birth. My top recommendation for prepping for unmedicated birth is Ina May's Guide to Childbirth. Such a great read. The first half is all birth stories. The second half is what unmedicated birth looks like and how to stay out of the fear-tension-pain cycle for an easier, possibly even pleasurable birthing experience. Lots and lots of ideas for staying confomfortable and preventing the need for interventions.
Edit for auto correct fail
I've read two Ina May books. Maybe it's just me but I didn't like them. They felt like marketing material for The Farm to me. Some of the stories came across as not sincere and probably written by the midwives themselves. Or maybe I'm just really cynical?
I think she's super biased towards home birth/birth on the Farm. And tends to be very biased against hospital births. I personally think unmedicated birth and hospitals can have a great marriage of ideals, so I tend to just shrug off some of Ina's hippier sentiments.
But her ideas about relaxed jaw, relaxed cervix; welcoming intimacy into the birth space to boost oxytocin; letting your subconscious do its thing during birth; what to do about malpositions or non ideal situations like shoulder distocia; what medical interventions are routinely done and why someone might question said practices; these are all really good things to have in your toolbox heading into unmedicated birth. So yeah, if you can, read her stuff with the understanding that she's writing from her experience living crunchier than most of us ever will, and just take from it what you need and leave the rest. You don't have to drink her kool-aid ;-)
Re: Ask a STM anything about child birth!
I have cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) that has led to stage 4 heart failure in the past. It was from a virus, but they are concerned being pregnant/delivering will cause me to regress back into heart failure given the stress. That is one reason they want me to deliver a little early (so the baby is slightly smaller) and C-Section I would lose more blood so it would make it more likely for my heart to struggle.
It's tough because my cardiologist who knows my case is at one hospital, my ob-gyn at another, and my MFM at a third (he doesn't do any deliveries). Unfortunately, that is just how it has to be for where I live, but it does make be worried because I love them all, but I'm constantly circling around to get answers.
Thanks so much - I'll definitely discuss further with my doctors on what they think I should do ahead of time.
@doozer1345 sounds like your doctor is very on top of it!
Didn't expect to see so many questions about the IV. This is the least of my worries! I've never had a bad IV experience but then I have the kinds of veins people can (and have) practice on. The hand IVs can be uncomfortable but for me, never been a big deal.
Has anyone started packing their hospital bag yet? Or making a list for packing? Or packed their diaper bag? Do I take both to the hospital so I know baby's stuff is in one and mine is in another? I know there was a bag thread going a while ago...everyone packs different stuff other than the serious basics so I still have no idea where to start!!! I'm one of those super organised people so the fact that I haven't even started making a list is freaking me out a little!
Been married since 2009.
Unicornuate Uterus (yes I menstruate glitter)
Several MCs
DD born 2013 (our miracle "you can't have babies" baby!)
Edit for auto correct fail
@yogahh I don't want to do any classes either so it was important to me to find one resource I liked and go with that. You won't be disappointed. I feel like I've learnt some good life lessons too!!
Anyway, quite unrelated but had to share. I haven't read Ina's book yet but I'm planning to.
But her ideas about relaxed jaw, relaxed cervix; welcoming intimacy into the birth space to boost oxytocin; letting your subconscious do its thing during birth; what to do about malpositions or non ideal situations like shoulder distocia; what medical interventions are routinely done and why someone might question said practices; these are all really good things to have in your toolbox heading into unmedicated birth. So yeah, if you can, read her stuff with the understanding that she's writing from her experience living crunchier than most of us ever will, and just take from it what you need and leave the rest. You don't have to drink her kool-aid ;-)