Childbirth Preparation Class {Day 2}

Day 2 of our Childbirth Preparation Class started off with a totally different instructor. Last week, we had a RN who is in charge of the 'healthy pregnancy' program at St Luke's, today, we had a doula. I must say, totally different perspective. Typically the RN teaches all 4 classes, but due to it being summer time she has some vacations planned allowing us to have the doula for 2 of the 4 classes. Amazingly enough, there were no repeats either! 

Tonight we focused on the stages of labor and all aspects included with it such as: breathing techniques, position changes, counter pressure and relaxation. Having a support partner is a key element to having a positive birth experience! There are many different birthing positions and knowing of all of these is great as we plan on going without any medications... We know birth plans can change and we are ok with anything that needs to happen. The best advice we received today was that if a mother goes without medication during the first stage of labor, then stage two (pushing) is easier. If a mother chooses to have an epidural, then pushing is the hardest stage. Motivation never hurts anyone!! But only time will tell what happens... 

Another important thing we now know is that there is no need to go to the hospital until contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each and have done this for 1 hour. This allows labor to progress while we are at home instead of sitting at the hospital. I have felt no contractions... yet... 

We need to pack for the hospital!! Thank you cheat sheet as there are a few items we would have forgotten. A few of my musts include:

• Hair tie
• Chapstick
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
• Camera
• Phone/Charger
• Gum
• Car Seat
• Pierce's going home outfit
• Receiving blanket

Halfway done with our class!!!