There are a few things in life that I feel very strongly about and one of them is my decision to have a natural childbirth. I don't have a problem with those who choose to have an epidural or cesarian section, because ultimately, whatever a person chooses is right for them as long as it is an educated choice. What I am frustrated with is the lack of emotional support that I and others in my position often experience from friends, family, doctors, and hospital staff. Everyone says the same thing: "Well, Samantha, you just need to know that it may not happen that way (the natural way)." Sometimes I fell like saying "oh, really?" in my most sarcastic tone. If someone has planned for a natural birth, USUALLY it's because they have done a ton of research on their own, and thus know the potential hazards of childbirth and should have a pretty good idea of what their own body can or cannot handle.
I watched a documentary yesterday that has me all fired up. :-D It's a long one, so get cozy if you plan to take a look! http://quicksilverscreen.com/watch?video=45525 Now, these women are actually planning to have home births, which I am not. With this being my first child I thought we'd better do the hospital thing just in case, but I do plan to spend a majority of my labor at home, not in a hospital bed. As the time draws near (5 weeks or so to go) I am already started to get the feeling from my doctors and the hospital staff that they do not prefer people who have natural childbirth. My friend, Carolyn, who is due next week is feeling similarly. As a matter of fact, one of the labor and delivery nurses said to me "If you want to be in pain for 3 hours or more trying to push that baby out- go for it!" I chose to look at this optimistically, deciding this meant that they would definitely be supportive, but I have my doubts.
Well, that is enough for now. I hope some of you will watch that video and get a better understanding of natural childbirth. Many of you may just think I'm a big hippie... that's okay too. :-) If there is one thing I'd want you to take away from it- that would be to really be encouraging to women that you know who desire this experience for their family. Now that I've put this out there to the world, I will probably end up with a c-section and you can all get a good laugh at me. :-D Honestly, as long as Davey is happy and healthy, who could ask for anything more?
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6 comments:
Samantha,
I am so very proud of you. Please don't let anyone rain on your parade. You get to choose. You are very brave to do this. I took the natural childbirth classes but it was not meant to be for me. You and Davey will be better off for your decision.
I am just next door if you need an atta girl!!
Love,
Bobbie
You know Samantha there aren't many people at all who go the natural route. Doctors are used to people depending on the medications and so forth. DO NOT let them intimidate you, because they will. As you know I went natural with both of my children. The only thing I had a problem with was that they are constantly asking you if want something for the pain or pushing about an epidural and like you I wanted it natural. Caylin was tougher than Isaiah because I did not know what to expect. With Isaiah my mid-wife did something they did not do the first go round. Maybe this will help you in the delivery room....She asked me if I wanted them to ask me every few minutes if I wanted the meds or if I wanted them to NOT ask and tell them if or when I changed my mind. This helped tremendously because it is sooo more tempting to change your plan if every 5 minutes they are asking if you want something. So when you go into the hospital tell them straight to please not ask if you want them, but that you will let them know if you change your mind. Natural is a beautiful thing, you can experience it the way God planned on us having children. You are very brave and I am proud of you for not falling for all the medical opinions from drs. Sometimes I think it is all based on them getting more money and not the health of you and your child. Be strong you can do it. Just remember what I said and it will make things a lot easier. I hope this might help you. If you ever want to talk about it you know how to reach me. You are going about almost the same as me (except the cloth diapers, and I too got called a hippie). I think what you are doing is wonderful. Love You girl!
I could never do it naturally..no no no! I remember Labor! If thats what you want to do than go for it..its your body..your baby..and everyone else can shut the hell up about it. I think Dr's and nurses don't like it because it makes it harder for them to deliver. Are you just nixing the epidural and meds or are you nixing all drugs and tools entirely?
-Kelley
I am hoping to have a completely natural birth i.e. no Pitocin or epidural. We are also asking that other routine interventions such as episiotomy or forceps not be used unless absolutely necessary. And, of course, because of my medical history, there will also be no subsequent pain medications except Tylenol, etc.
Sam, I am all for natural birth and believe it is truly a beautiful thing. As you know I had Tina at home and the next three at the hospital natural. Just when you get to the point where you think you can't just think of that little engine..find a focal point listen to your midwife and of course the support in the room is sooo important! You are a strong woman in your mind and I know you will do fine. Love ya, Sandy
Samantha,
You go girl!! Just one more reason I like you soo much! I know you can do it! I did it with all 3 of mine, and would not give up those memories/pain for anything. I will hold it over their heads for the rest of their lives...LOL.
April
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