Birthing Class

I cannot say enough good things about the birthing class we chose. On a recommendation from a friend of a friend, I had checked out The Bradley Method months ago, then searched for a class in the New York area. After sending a few emails, I was directed to Mary Esther Malloy, who teaches classes regularly in New York City and also Westchester. She is an experienced doula and trained Bradley instructor, and at the end of our 8 weeks of class, I honestly feel like I know EXACTLY what to expect when the baby comes. Obviously, there are so many different possible scenarios, but we went over everything so thoroughly and completely, I don't expect any huge surprises.

I think the best thing about the Bradley Method is that husbands are encouraged and educated to be their wives biggest supporters in natural childbirth. Sam admitted the idea of having a natural unmedicated birth scared him, that he had never known anyone who had actually done it, and he had no idea what it entailed. But after doing some reading and taking the classes, we both agree that it is definitely our preference to have as natural a birth as possible given the circumstances. Without passing judgment on those who choose medicated births, I am completely certain that this is 100% the best choice.

And yes, I realize I haven't actually gone through it yet. And yes, I'm aware it will hurt. But it's one day of pain, and I'm fairly certain I will survive it. After all, women all over the world have been giving birth without pain meds since the beginning of time, and somehow the human species has persisted. Ultimately, I wonder how many American women actually take the time to educate themselves about what a medicated birth actually means, both for themselves and for their baby, and to consider why we are so quick to cut ourselves off from the physical experience of one of the greatest things our bodies will ever accomplish.

I was sad to hear from my doctor this week that if I go a week past my due date, they will have to induce me. While I am so excited for the baby, I will be so disappointed if I end up chained to an IV and a monitor in a hospital bed for my delivery after all the things we've learned and prepared for. But I guess that means this will be a 2009 baby, whether she likes it or not!

39 days to go.