Learning about baby

Being a first time parent can be overwhelming.  I've certainly been around a lot of children and have a lot of friends and family members with kids, but now that I'm faced with having not one, but two newborns of my own, I have to admit, I'm a bit intimidated and scared.  Also excited and happy, but that fear keeps creeping in.  What do I do when they cry?  How do I change a diaper again?  Breastfeeding is best, but how do you do it?  And perhaps the most daunting - how am I going to make it through labor and delivery and what choices should I make?!

These are just some of the questions that have raced through my mind that I want answers to.  Thankfully, there are tons of resources out there.

Of course, my doctors/midwives/nurses are a primary source of information.  Thankfully they have been very good about answering the crazy questions that I've had so far.  And at taking panicked phone calls wondering if something I was experiencing was normal.  At my first appointment, they gave me a big packet of information with tons of information sheets including things like foods and medications that were (and weren't) pregnancy safe.  Later in the pregnancy, they assign you online modules that you watch at your own pace.  These cover important topics like what to expect at your hospital stay (and discharge), pain relief options and what happens if you need a C section.  All great information, but not interactive (which is the method of learning that I prefer.

My Hospital, Magee Womens Hospital has a great selection of classes as well.   I have taken advantage of the Baby Care Basics, weekend childbirth intensive (over one weekend instead of six evening classes) and breastfeeding.  They have all met or exceeded my expectations.  The instructors are real and down to earth.  They don't sugar coat what your experience will be, but they give  you information and confidence so you don't need to fear your birthing experience either.  The classes are also very hands on which makes it easier to learn and feel prepared.  At the baby care class, we practiced diaper changes, bathing and swaddling. In breast feeding, we learned about different positions that the baby can be held in and had the opportunity to practice them with dolls.  In childbirth, we had a variety of items including yoga/birthing balls and other relaxation items while we practiced labor positions and breathing.  If you are going to be a patient at Magee, I highly recommend their classes!  Or check out the ones offered by your hospital.  They will no doubt be just as informative had useful.

One thing that surprised me is that Babies R Us offers many classes - most being free!   I have taken advantage of their baby care basics class (where I learned that you need to have a pediatrician selected before you go to deliver - among other things), breastfeeding, avoiding a C Section, car seat safety and infant/child CPR.  The only one that you had to pay for was the CPR class, but it was well worth the price knowing that you have the skills to save your child's life if you ever need it.  Most of the classes are only an hour long - so they are more like introductions into the topics, but they are a great wealth of information and hey, even if you don't like it, they were free so you have nothing to lose.  Check your local store for times and offerings!

The thing I am probably most excited about is that we hired a doula.  I first heard of a doula when my friend Kristen had her first baby over two years ago.  I was intrigued at the concept but didn't think much about it again until I was feeling overwhelmed about all the choices that we are faced with during the child birth process.  After getting recommendations from instructors at my various classes, I have decided to go with Sharon of Blessed Arrivals.  Doulas will meet with you prior to delivery to discuss your birthing preferences, help prepare you for what you might experience and in general provide reassurance that your choices are valid.  When the big day comes, they will help you determine if you are in fact in labor and ready to go to the hospital (one of my fears is going in too early and being unnecessarily induced).  They are also your coach and advocate during the birthing process.  They will work directly with you and your birthing partner to help you through the labor and delivery process (including various labor positions and comfort measures).  They are also there to be your advocate and help navigate what can be a scary and intimidating process.  They are familiar with the hospital's process and procedures and know many of the nurses and staff which is a huge plus.  I'm extremely excited to have a professional on my side at the hospital, especially with having twins.

We are also taking a Hypno Babies class.  It sounds a bit out there, but it is all about how to relax and meditate during your birthing experience.  We've only done one class, but it has already been a big help in giving me peace of mind and taking away my fear of what will happen during birth.  I am looking forward to the rest of the classes!

Of course, I've read a bunch of the traditional resources as well (What to Expect, breastfeeding 101, etc).

I feel more confident and ready because of all the classes and preparation we have done.  Hopefully in July, I'll be able to report back with another post about how all of these preparations really did help me to have an awesome birth experience.  

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