My mother told me last night that everyone at her work wants to know if an epidural is a part of my birth plan. (She doesn't read my blog). Her co-workers are nurses in the OB ward, so this is a step up from Kelly-the-barber asking. I asked my mom, "Why are they so curious? (Does it matter?)" I guess they just wanted to know because everyone comes in with a birth plan nowadays . . . and most underestimate their abilities.
"What do you think mom?"
"Well, it depends on the labor. All my labors were really short. Maybe 15 hard pushes. With you guys I had terrible back labor. You should read about the different positions and breathing techniques that can help."
"I was planning on an epidural - I have no fantasies about wanting to feel my body tear apart."
"I think if they had epidurals then, I would have seriously considered it - but I think it all depends on how the labor goes. Mine would have been too quick I think. I also think they would have done a C-section on me with you guys these days - I'm sure you're heart rate dropped having been thirteen minutes in between deliveries."
"I know Aaron and I were 5 1/2 weeks early. How close were you to your due dates with the others?"
"Seth (the first born) I was two weeks early . . ."
It was nice to hear what my mom thinks and remembers . . . I don't feel like I often get my mom's true thoughts, but it's something I find very comforting.
She's one of several I've heard had their first born two weeks early. For me, that's this coming Monday. I can hardly imagine.
15 hard pushes is not labor-labor is also the 10 previous hours of contractions you had to endure to reach the pushing stage! At that point you don't know if you have one more hour in front of you or 12. That's why people consider epidurals-they need a relief from the pain to endure until the birth! Just keep an open mind and have very little expectation ;)
ReplyDeleteYes - I agree. However, mom also described her labor leading up to these pushes as "cramping".
ReplyDelete