Topic Archive: childbirth

June 28, 2010

Childbirth (The Whole Enchilada)

I had no idea how involved the whole process of childbirth could actually be… especially for new parents. So, it’s a good thing Ryan and I signed up for a weekend crash course in the subject (listen to PregTASTIC, Episode 114 for more information on birthing classes).

I had heard mixed reviews about these types of classes. Mainly that they weren’t really worth your time because they pretty much just state the obvious. And let’s face it… most of us already know the basics. Our parents taught us that when they sat us down to discuss the proverbial “birds and the bees”. However, I doubt your parents ever got this deep….

As with most things in life… the more you know about a particular topic, the more comfortable you feel. So, it only makes sense to get a quick preview of what is likely to become the most important day of your life.

In our case, our childbirth class at Palomar Medical Center was not only a great prep course, but it also served as an important dress rehearsal for the big day. We mapped out our route to the hospital and determine the best place to park (including after hours). Then, we toured the hospital for the first time, which included a stop in both the private delivery rooms as well as the recovery rooms. We were even able to pre-register for the big day.

And all that was really a bonus! The material covered in class was also extremely helpful. It’s what I like to call “the whole enchilada”.  It’s packed with lots of good “stuff”… and yes, at times it can get a little messy. Especially some of the videos… so eat a light lunch :)

Really nothing is off limits in these classes, which is great. Most of the couples are first-time parents, so we’re all asking the same silly questions when it comes to labor and delivery. Common topics of discussion include pregnancy comforts/discomforts, stages/phases of labor, comfort techniques, hospital procedures and caring for a newborn. For Ryan and I, these topics were a great starting point for discussions outside the classroom. Believe it or not, deciding what is best for your family and comparing that to what your OB and hospital want for you, can be overwhelming. There are many choices to make, and having a partner to share that responsibility is extremely helpful.

It definitely made us stronger in the end. And Lord knows… I need all the strength I can get come D-Day.

Episode 130 | March 18, 2009

Maggie’s Birth Story

Maggie shares her surprise birth, 4-weeks early, no bag packed, no name picked, car seat drama at the special care nursery and breastfeeding: “udderly intense”. Maggie’s sense of humor pulls her through! And, win a $100 shopping spree from Amon Maternity! NEXT WEEK: Preparing for Baby #2.

Episode 122 | January 6, 2009

The Childbirth Choice That’s Right for You

How to decide which childbirth option is right for you, and five tips on what to consider when making your decision. Plus, how do we stop the judgment of each other’s child birthing choices? Author, Marisa Cohen joins PregTASTIC to discuss her book Deliver This!: Make the Childbirth Choice That’s Right for You . . . No Matter What Everyone Else Thinks. NEXT WEEK: Dr. Harvey Karp!

Episode 83 | February 13, 2008

Birthing From Within: The Core Concept

What are the core concepts in Birthing From Within childbirth prep classes? How is post partum addressed? Which four perspectives are explored? BFW mentor Nicole Morales shares about this experiential and holistic view of pregnancy, birth and beyond.

Episode 74 | November 21, 2007

Lamaze: How Is It Different?

What is Lamaze and is it for you? How is Lamaze different from other birthing techniques? Gerri Ryan, midwife and Lamaze cert. childbirth educator clarifies what Lamaze is and isn’t. Plus, a guest from ABC’s, “Notes from the Underbelly”.