Derek and I started attending the only class that West Virginia offers for childbirth. I really wanted to find a Lamaze class but unfortunately this tiny town doesn’t offer it. The class offers 5 classes on basic information from breastfeeding to managing labor pain.
I thought I knew it all based on the endless episodes of A Baby Story, Bringing Baby Home, Birthdays , Amazing Deliveries, Teen Pregnancy & Teen mom all of which the TLC and VH1 channel offers. I know it sounds like all I do is watch TV but I’ve been keeping myself occupied “nesting” for the most part, when I take a break at least one of the baby related episodes is on TV.
My plan is to deliver naturally. Most think I’m crazy when pain relief is so accessible. I figure, child birth is a natural part of life, many have done it before me (including my own mother) …so why can’t I? One of the main reasons I’d like to deliver naturally because I want total control. I’ve never been drunk, but I have been given medication that has made lose my sense of control and I hate that feeling. My entire pregnancy has felt uncontrolled (due to sickness) and I’d like to at least feel like I’ve had some control during part of my pregnancy. The thought of not being able to feel my legs…or feel if I’m pushing hard enough once the epidural has been administered terrifies me!
At the last class we attended, there were about ten other couples. I often forget I’m in West Virginia until I hear the Southern drawl that the majority of the locals’ possess here. It was interesting to hear the introductions and what other couples plan to name their children. Imagine a southern drawl to following double names (these were actual names from the class): Eric Dickenson….Sarah Lynn…Anna Belle. When It was our turn for introductions, I told them what I’ve told many of you…due to unwanted opinions and the likelihood that someone will take offense that he is not named after a family member we have chosen not to share the name until our son is born. I can’t imagine what kind of response we would have gotten because our little boys name is very unique compared to the names we had just heard.
We were taught breathing techniques and relaxation methods. Honestly, envisioning the calming sunrise as I hear waves wash ashore doesn’t calm me at all. The breathing techniques were hilarious because my husband was intentionally trying to make me laugh. .. I need to figure out some relaxation method fast or else I’ll be screaming for the epidural. Running and journaling are calming to me, both of which will not be conducive to relaxing during childbirth. Suggestions anyone?
