Childbirth Classes...

Is it next Sunday yet?

Sunday morning was our first session in our childbirth class and the second session is next Sunday. It made me excited to be in the place where Alexander will be born. Yes, I know South Shore is not right down the street...we'll be fine. I'm not at all worried. Don't feel the need to tell us that it's a long distance, we already know and you're only going to add to any potential worry or concern that Dan has. Our childbirth teacher told us that the less worry & anxiety we have about the labor will put us in a better mental place - so no comments on distance!

Dan's thought about the class was "it's a lot of muck & guck & goo but very informative"

Originally, I was really worried yet eager to see how Dan would react and handle all of the information. We all know Dan can be entertaining, and he also doesn't do well when they talk of injecting me or the baby with this or that. I thought that he would be squeamish or goofy. He was none of that (except for one small moment of squirming), I have to say that he did so well I am so proud at how he did. His reaction is contributing to the fact of wanting to go finish the class & I am no longer anxious as to how he'll do during the actual labor. He'll be fantastic, no worries.

He may be a bit neurotic driving to the hospital, but once we get there, he'll be amazing. The only part that I'm worried about is the epidural part, but that's where Alyson will come in to play.

For a 4 1/2 hour class, I feel we covered alot of information. We discussed the different stages of labor, what to expect during each of them, the different techniques to work through them, and what both the mother & the labor partner can do. We ended the day with breathing techniques as well as relaxation techniques. I feel that if we spend 20 minutes a couple times a week practicing them, than we'll do quite well.

The funniest part of the day was when we went around the room and introduced ourselves. Dan explained that we have probably the furthest drive and that he's a Yankee fan. I did mention I was a Red Sox Fan but the best part, for Dan, was that there were 3 other Yankee fans in the room so he was in his element. But quite ironic that 4 people in the class were from NJ & Yankee fans.

There was one moment that I thought we were going to lose it and burst out laughing. When we got onto the floor to work on breathing techniques, someone passed gas and it was quite loud. The couple next to me started to laugh uncontrollably, yet quiet. I originally thought Dan didn't hear it and was happy because I thought that if he did, that he would no doubt start laughing to which I'd laugh right along with him. But I asked him after class, and he said he did but kept focusing on what we were supposed to do - whew!

Next week we have more techniques to learn, the infamous "video", and a tour of the Maternity ward. It's all so exciting! I'm really looking forward to the tour and more techniques.