February 2017 Moms

Birth and Babies Class Chatter!

2

Re: Birth and Babies Class Chatter!

  • @becbec28 with my daughter they did delayed cord cutting and then I think right after she told me to push a tiny bit and it was out. It was a pretty smooth transition and you don't really notice all the crap that happens once you have the baby in your arms. 

    @MissMerciBeaucoup it sounds like overkill to me. You are doing way more than I am in preparation but do whatever you feel most comfortable with ! 
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  • @MissMerciBeaucoup Hmmm... Bradley is a big time commitment obviously, but maybe you could pick a book from a few of the different methods to give you an idea if it would also help you? I can share our class's reading list if that would be helpful. I know we have ladies attending several different method classes, maybe one of them will jump out at you?
    Rainbow baby Dean is due 2/17/17!
  • @MissMerciBeaucoup Hmmm... Bradley is a big time commitment obviously, but maybe you could pick a book from a few of the different methods to give you an idea if it would also help you? I can share our class's reading list if that would be helpful. I know we have ladies attending several different method classes, maybe one of them will jump out at you?
    Can you share your reading list with me too? 
  • @WinchesterGirl that would be super helpful if you could share the reading list.  I think I'll probably skip having an additional birth class and just go with the hospital class and my doulas sessions.  Also any other book recommendations would be great.  So far I've just read Ina May's Guide to Childbirth.   Thanks!!
  • Sure, no problem!

    Required reading:
    - Husband-Coached Childbirth by Dr. Robert A. Bradley, MD
    - Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way by Susan McCutcheon

    Recommended reading:
    - The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League International
    - Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin
    - The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer
    - The Pregnancy Book, The Birth Book, The Baby Book by William and Martha Sears
    Rainbow baby Dean is due 2/17/17!
  • We went to a one time meet the midwives class last night at the hospital.  It was great to hear from each of them and the audience got to ask questions about having a midwife at your birth.  It really made me feel good to hear that they practice with as little intervention as possible and they try not to do the things that I don't want done anyway!  I think it was good for H too because I'm not sure he really even knew what a midwife did before this.
    Pregnancy Ticker
  • @grapeskittles4lyfe I love the idea of a sibling class! My kids would go nuts for it. I need to find one!
    Lilypie Pregnancy tickers
  • I'm kind of panicking because my doctor finally gave me the hospital class info yesterday and when I went to sign up yesterday they were completely booked until end of January/early February! My birthing class that I signed up for is a month before my due date and it was the earliest they had available. I hope this guy doesn't decide to come early! I'm kind of pissed b/c I had asked my doctor earlier for the info and he said not to worry about it until now and that classes don't book up but clearly that wasn't true... Our infant care class and breastfeeding classes are the 1st and 2nd week of Feb respectively... I hope it works out but I just feel like we're cutting it way too close!
    Me: 33 | DH: 34
    Married: October, 19, 2015
    EDD 2/22/17 <3 DS1 born on 3/2/17
    EDD 3/8/20 <3 DS2 born on 3/10/20
    EDD 11/24/23
    (Formerly Marriedhamstermom Feb ‘17)


  • My hospital class is cutting it really close too @marriedhamstermom. Are there any independent classes in your area you could take a little bit earlier for peace of mind?
  • Same here!  My hospital classes are the last week of January!  Glad I'm not the only one, and hope the babies stay put for all of us!
  • @marriedhamstermom The hospitals in my area don't require you to be a patient to take their classes. So other than the actual tour, you could look into taking anything else at other hospitals near you, as another option!
    Rainbow baby Dean is due 2/17/17!
  • The cool thing about my independent class @marriedhamstermom is that the teacher is giving us the "inside scoop" about the hospital we're all delivering at. Things like how to snack (safely), good takeout in the area, the fact that you're likely to receive induction pressure if you haven't delivered within 12-14 hours after arrival, etc., etc. I think the hospital class will have other benefits, but they'll have to toe the party line a bit more on what they say due to risk management.
  • DH and I went to a newborn care and infant CPR class on Friday evening. It was such a good class and we learned a great deal! In addition to NB care and CPR, our instructor also went over what to expect at the hospital during/after labor (tests given to baby, procedures, etc.) which was super helpful. 

    It was only us and one other couple in the class, so we got a lot of individual attention and the class was tailored to our specific questions and concerns.

    At the beginning of class, H realized that he went to high school with our instructor's husband, and the other pregnant lady used to work with the instructor, so it was a nice "everyone knows everyone" vibe. Our instructor did a great job of being informative without being too formal. 

    H was super reluctant to go at first, but after the class he said he didn't realize how much he didn't know about babies that he is glad that he went! 
  • What class/es are you taking? Childbirth Preparation and Birthing/Labor Skills

    What class # are you on, if it's a multi class series? This was an intensive one day class.

    How are you liking it so far? I'm really glad we took this class and I feel a lot more prepared for LO's arrival.

    Did you learn anything surprising? Some of the hospital's SOP's surprised me, like constant monitoring unless you can get approved for intermittent...  And, that they do have one wireless monitoring set up that I could request and stay mobile.  Also, they have shower rooms and tub rooms if I want to request one with a tub.

    Anything else you learned that you'd like to share with the group? I  feel like I probably got the same basics as most people... But, I was surprised to hear the timelines at which doctors might suggest interventions,pitocin and vacuum, etc.  DH and I both agreed that our goal is to labor at home for as long as possible (but keeping to doctors instructions, of course).

    Were there any funny or interesting moments you want to share? The moment when our instructor told us that our name tag circles were 10 cm and we all looked down with absolute horror.

    Any questions for the group? I felt like the instructor was very neutral about pain interventions overall, but she did mention how getting an epidural increases the chances of needing a CS significantly.  Did anyone feel like they were swayed in a different direction from going to their class?  I'm wondering about my chances of being able to power through w/o any pain meds, but it is starting to sound more and more attractive.
    Pregnancy Ticker
  • blush64blush64 member
    edited November 2016
    MLRocha said:

    Any questions for the group? I felt like the instructor was very neutral about pain interventions overall, but she did mention how getting an epidural increases the chances of needing a CS significantly.  Did anyone feel like they were swayed in a different direction from going to their class?  I'm wondering about my chances of being able to power through w/o any pain meds, but it is starting to sound more and more attractive.
    I have read and heard this is true and not true depending on which information or studies the person was relying on. What was her idea of significantly? I think going med-free is great for those who choose it.

    EDIT There are many things that can affect the need for a c-section. If you are interested in an epidural I would look further into it and not rely only on those who favour med-free labour. However, if you want med-free, that's great too.
  • I just signed up for a natural birth class offered through my midwife and OB's practice. I'm super excited for it. Usually it's a 4 week class through the hospital but the practice offers it in an intensive weekend course. I'm most excited for H to learn some things. 
    Pregnancy Ticker
  • We're signed up for a one-day intensive birthing class in early December. But here's the thing- I'll find out on December 19 whether my placenta has moved enough to proceed normally, or whether it's still low-lying, in which case they'll want to do a c-section at 37 weeks. The classes mostly revolve around the assumption that you're going for a natural birth, yes? We'll still take it, because I feel like I need to be as informed as possible, but most of the info will really only come in handy if I end up not needing the c-section. 
    Married: 2011
    TTC #1: 3/2016
    Me 39 - DH 44
    BFP 5/27/16 EDD 1/30/17
    DD born 2/3/17
  • blush64 said:
    I have read and heard this is true and not true depending on which information or studies the person was relying on. What was her idea of significantly? I think going med-free is great for those who choose it.

    EDIT There are many things that can affect the need for a c-section. If you are interested in an epidural I would look further into it and not rely only on those who favour med-free labour. However, if you want med-free, that's great too.
    I'm not 100% sure I could make it med-free, but it's kind of nice to have a goal in mind...  DH definitely questions my tolerance for pain.  I do like the idea of practicing the breathing techniques they gave us and seeing how it goes.  But, I've been approaching the whole thing with an attitude of 'you can't really plan this stuff'.   
    Pregnancy Ticker
  • Vastra said:
    We're signed up for a one-day intensive birthing class in early December. But here's the thing- I'll find out on December 19 whether my placenta has moved enough to proceed normally, or whether it's still low-lying, in which case they'll want to do a c-section at 37 weeks. The classes mostly revolve around the assumption that you're going for a natural birth, yes? We'll still take it, because I feel like I need to be as informed as possible, but most of the info will really only come in handy if I end up not needing the c-section. 

    I don't have any advice because I haven't taken a class like that (but I would still take it and soak up all the info I can!). But I do have a question. I also have a low-lying placenta and we find out on December 1st if it has moved. But they didn't seem concerned with it at all and confident it would move. So they didn't mention a C-section at certain week (just in general). Is this common usually?
  • @jlellis603 It was the first I'd heard of needing a c-section for a placenta that's low-lying but not previa. I think it's because it hadn't moved at all since my 24-week us, and it could possibly inhibit a vag birth? Will Dec. 1 be your 24-week us? That's when they told me about the possibility of a c-section, but they hadn't mentioned it before, and they'd known since 18 weeks that it was low-lying. 
    Married: 2011
    TTC #1: 3/2016
    Me 39 - DH 44
    BFP 5/27/16 EDD 1/30/17
    DD born 2/3/17
  • jlellis603 said

    But they didn't seem concerned with it at all and confident it would move. So they didn't mention a C-section at certain week (just in general). Is this common usually?
    My placenta was borderline low at my last scan (nearly 10 weeks ago) and they were pretty confident that i would move up as my uterus grew as the pregnancy progressed. I have a scan now on thursday which should be able to tell one way or another.
    I had to ask 3 different times at my previous scan before the midwife would actually outright say that if it didnt move up i would have to have a section. Usually for a low risk, planned section here it will be around 38-39 weeks.
  • Thanks @Janefelicity ! I feel like sometimes we have to pull teeth to get straight answers.

    @Vastra Dec. 1st I will be 28w 3d. They told me that it was placenta previa at my anatomy scan at 20 weeks and then I had to go in for something last week and the Dr. said my chart said it was just low-lying... so I don't even know for sure what it is. I haven't had a u/s since the anatomy scan so hopefully when we have one next week, they will give me a little more info. Good luck at yours!!

  • MLRocha said:
    blush64 said:
    I have read and heard this is true and not true depending on which information or studies the person was relying on. What was her idea of significantly? I think going med-free is great for those who choose it.

    EDIT There are many things that can affect the need for a c-section. If you are interested in an epidural I would look further into it and not rely only on those who favour med-free labour. However, if you want med-free, that's great too.
    I'm not 100% sure I could make it med-free, but it's kind of nice to have a goal in mind...  DH definitely questions my tolerance for pain.  I do like the idea of practicing the breathing techniques they gave us and seeing how it goes.  But, I've been approaching the whole thing with an attitude of 'you can't really plan this stuff'.   
    I legit cry when I stub my toe, but I could do childbirth med free. So you never know!!!
    Lilypie Pregnancy tickers
  • I legit cry when I stub my toe, but I could do childbirth med free. So you never know!!!
    My sister once passed out over a hangnail. She did med-free childbirth. You got this. :) 
    Married: 2011
    TTC #1: 3/2016
    Me 39 - DH 44
    BFP 5/27/16 EDD 1/30/17
    DD born 2/3/17
  • @jlellis603 I also have to go back for another scan since my placenta was a little low at my anatomy scan but my scan isn't until 32 weeks so end of December. Both the U/S tech and my doctor told me it'll have moved up enough by then and when I asked my doctor what would happen if it doesn't he just said not to worry because it will. Part of me wanted to be like if you're so confident then why do the extra U/S but at the same time I'm excited to see this little guy again so I didn't complain. 
    Me: 33 | DH: 34
    Married: October, 19, 2015
    EDD 2/22/17 <3 DS1 born on 3/2/17
    EDD 3/8/20 <3 DS2 born on 3/10/20
    EDD 11/24/23
    (Formerly Marriedhamstermom Feb ‘17)


  • @MLRocha I fully admit I am a huge wimp and I can not tolerate pain. I have done med-free and with an epidural. I loved each experience. The med-free hurt a lot and it did not feel like "pain with a purpose" or anything else I have been told. It just felt like pain. That being said I managed it and will attempt again in February. Go in with a positive attitude but remember if you do decide you want some sort of medical pain relief that's ok too.
  • @marriedhamstermom and they aren't checking yours until 4 weeks after mine (I'll be 32w around the of Dec too) so that makes me think it really isn't a big deal...but also....what if it hasn't moved and you're 32 weeks ahh! But I'm with you, I'll take to opportunity to see him anytime :)

  • We had our second birthing class last night and I thought it was so good! We talked about contractions, labor positions, relaxation and breathing, pain medicine, and C-sections. I thought it was a really good balance because she talked a lot about natural techniques to begin with because even if you want an epidural you still have to go through the beginning of labor. Plus, it was really good for H to hear about how he can help me and to hear facts so he can understand and support me wanting to go med free.

    We did an exercise to practice relaxation and distraction techniques. We had to squeeze ice for 3, 1 minute "contractions". All I can say is I hope H is more serious when it comes to real contractions. lol

    Me: 24  DH: 28

    Married: 9/2013

    Love my LEO!!

    TTC #1: 9/2015

    BFP: 2/1/16  MC 2/8/16 @ 5wks

    BFP: 5/22/16 RAINBOW BABY

    EDD: 1/30/2017 *IT'S A GIRL!!!!* 

    Kirsten Grace 1/20/17                            


    Baby Birthday Ticker Ticker
  • @becbec28 we did the ice thing too!
  • @Gretchypoo That's so sweet!!
    Me: 24  DH: 28

    Married: 9/2013

    Love my LEO!!

    TTC #1: 9/2015

    BFP: 2/1/16  MC 2/8/16 @ 5wks

    BFP: 5/22/16 RAINBOW BABY

    EDD: 1/30/2017 *IT'S A GIRL!!!!* 

    Kirsten Grace 1/20/17                            


    Baby Birthday Ticker Ticker
  • becbec28 said:

    We did an exercise to practice relaxation and distraction techniques. We had to squeeze ice for 3, 1 minute "contractions". All I can say is I hope H is more serious when it comes to real contractions. lol

    This is probably going to make me sound super creepy but my first thought was you were squeezing ice in your vag to simulate pain or something.  But I realize that in class it must be squeeze in your hand. :#

    Oh my word this made me laugh out loud so hard!!!
    Me: 24  DH: 28

    Married: 9/2013

    Love my LEO!!

    TTC #1: 9/2015

    BFP: 2/1/16  MC 2/8/16 @ 5wks

    BFP: 5/22/16 RAINBOW BABY

    EDD: 1/30/2017 *IT'S A GIRL!!!!* 

    Kirsten Grace 1/20/17                            


    Baby Birthday Ticker Ticker
  • I had our first of 3 antenatal class yesterday evening. 
    They take place in the hospital & are run by the midwives.
    last night was split in 2 - the first half was a physiotherapist talking to us about relaxation, breathing, stretching & positioning & the second was the midwife going over any general questions anyone had. The most popular question was where can we park (from all the dads to be).
    i think my husband found it more beneficial than i did as he collected every leaflet going as resource material for work!
    embarressingly it was my husband who was late to the class, whos phone went off in the middle of a quiet relaxation exercise & who was sat munching biscuits through the midwife talking (cause hed come straight from work & had no dinner!)
  • We have our 6 hour newborn care class this Saturday... I'm equal parts excited/nervous/have no idea what they have to tell us which will take 6 straight hours. Clearly this is evidence that I need the class. 

    I know they will cover feeding, diapers, and bathing... beyond that, I have no idea!

    Our 4th Bradley class laat Sunday went very well, we did a massage exercise and started  working on mental relaxation. They also had all the husbands take turns wearing a 35 pound backpack (on the front) for nearly an hour, and they had to do whatever tasks their wife finds most difficult.

    DH was a good sport, but one of the men had an attitude. It blows me away that any guy seeing their wife having a baby belly 24/7 for months can complain about wearing a backpack for an hour. You get to take that off at the end of the night, so HUSH.


    AMEN!!!!
    Me: 24  DH: 28

    Married: 9/2013

    Love my LEO!!

    TTC #1: 9/2015

    BFP: 2/1/16  MC 2/8/16 @ 5wks

    BFP: 5/22/16 RAINBOW BABY

    EDD: 1/30/2017 *IT'S A GIRL!!!!* 

    Kirsten Grace 1/20/17                            


    Baby Birthday Ticker Ticker
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