Friday, October 9, 2009

"Slow Breathing," "Ah-He," and "Ah-who"....

...the three breathing techniques to get you through labor -- if only it was that simple, right?

After completing our two lamaze classes, we are now self-proclaimed "experts" in all of the breathing techniques, relaxation methods and labor positions to get through the birth successfully! We spent the last two Sunday afternoons in this "marathon" version of the class, and walked away with a plethera of information.  So much information, in fact, that I heard a rumor Eric was testing his knowledge by quizzing his clients about what he had learned. Now what other "labor coaches" go home and do that?? I'm so grateful that he's the one I get by my side to help me make it through the day I give birth to our little bundle!  Of course, all of his expertise with various stretching techniques and his "redefined" knowledge will definitely be a plus as well. 

Although I definitely enjoyed all of the information that was provided, my favorite part was probably the tour of "labor and delivery" -- the area where I will most likely spend between 12 and 24 hours trying to get comfortable and avoid an epidural if at all possible. (Yes, I'll give into the epidural if I really have to - but I'm trying to keep it as a last option!) After all, I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro and thought I was going to die, so can this really be any more miserable?? (wink, wink)  I was pleasantly surprised to see that the birthing rooms were quite spacious and "homey" for an older hospital.  The postpartum rooms, on the other hand, were quite cramped, but I'm thinking by then all the chaos will be over and I'll be happy that there's simply a bed to rest.

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