Our childbirth instructor is a Christian - and not afraid to talk about it. I noticed at the beginning of class that she was wearing a wordless book bracelet, so I knew she believed, but as class went on she talked about her relationship with the Lord, using examples of how she prayed to Him in labor. And it wasn’t an “Oh God Help Me!” prayer, but a sincere one to the Lord, asking Him to move her baby. Then after class, she passed out a quote from Chuck Swindoll about attitude, another couple began a conversation with her about church. It was meaningful to me because sometimes I feel like many protestants seem to believe in this country & the western way of doing things, especially medical care - more than they believe in natural methods of doing things, when to me, believing in the God who created everything ‘natural’ can go hand and hand with a more natural way of doing things. Anyway, each time we go she impresses me with her obvious conviction for natural childbirth, however I feel she gives a great balance between natural childbirthing and a confidence in the medical establishment. She’s made me feel better about my delivery taking place in a hospital, but still being able to do it “naturally”
Once again the class was great fun. The other couples are very friendly & we all laugh alot. It was our turn to bring snacks & the crackers & cheese & fruit was a hit. I’m thrilled that it’s turning out to be exactly what I’d hoped it would be. We watched some graphic videos of birth & it was good for Charlie to see, it gave him more confidence, instead of dealing with fear of the unkown. He’s going to make a great coach. He did an awesome job in the practice breathing session, keeping me relaxed.
I think one of the biggest keys we learned, and the one we need to make sure to do is to move around during active labor - out of the bed! Even if I end up w/ pitocin & an IV, it’s important to get up & around, changing positions often. I expect it will be one of the best ways to avoid meds.
