I delivered tomorrow. TOMORROW... in my last pregnancy. It was 34 weeks and 1 day that my water broke and the labor began. From beginning to end, I labored for 3 hours TOPS (i know, don't be mad at me your double digit labor-ers!). That being said, it was INTENSE labor the whole time (yeah, like what part of labor ISN'T intense, but you know what i mean), since I was already 4-5 centimeters when the whole thing began.
So, to address the title of this blog, I am FREAKING OUT after tonight's hospital tour. It suddenly dawned on Scott and me this past week that we didn't know a) where to park, b) where to go, or c) what to expect when the upcoming process unfolds. So we scheduled tonight's tour of the labor and delivery and post-birth floors. The guide's presentation included a short run down of birthing accesories (ball, bar, bath tub, etc) and talk about the different "stages" of labor.
WHAT???
We learned all that stuff in a labor and delivery class the first time around, but it wasn't until tonight that I fully recognized how UNUSUAL our first labor was. There was NO TIME for music or movies or massaging or balls or walking or positions. There were no STAGES. It was bing-batta-boom. And before I knew it, I was being rolled into an OR for the pushing part.
So - what I'm saying is - if what I experienced in 3 hours will likely be drawn out to 8, 10, 14, 20 hours, I may not make it.
But on the flip side, I keep reminding myself of the positives of this hopefully more typical birthing process: baby on my chest immediately after delivery and even breast feeding if he wants to, baby stays in room with me if I want him to, pumping not necessary, etc, etc. I won't need to visit HIM. He gets to be with us! What a convenience. Although, rest assured, I will be taking advantage of the free babysitting the nursery provides when I need a nap or two. Ha.
So I'm pumped and freaked in ways that I didn't expect this second time around. Then again, does it EVER get old?
4 comments:
Or, you could have a very quick labor again, and it will be just like you remembered it. They usually do get shorter with each baby, and since you've had two, maybe this one will pop out like a blue streak! :) As one who labored more than 12 hours, I hope that's the case. So glad you're getting closer. That went fast!
Hey honey, I agree with tif, this time will be easier. My comparison, went 7 hours with Hannah, 5+ with Charlie and 3 with Austin, it usually does become quicker, your body just remembers.
I'm scared of ANY labor for ANY amount of time. :) But you're a strong woman. You'll do fine!! Congratulations and good luck the second time around! I can't believe it's this close already!!!
I am happy for you that you are going to get to have a typical labor, they are not as bad as everyone says... Kaiya's was 21 hours (not bad just tooooo long) and Cassie was a total of 7.... 3 of which at home... my Mom had to concvince me to go to the doc because I knew they were contractions... but did not think they were real.... they were:) I was 6 cms when I got there.. smooth sailing:) Each birth is different ususally... but I cannot wait to hear all about when you get to atcually hold your baby immediately, look into their eyes, get to nurse immediately.... all of the things that some Mom's with premies sometimes have to miss out on:(
You will love it and you have proven time and time again your will in life is stronger then anyone could have imagined.... I think you will do great! No doubt in my mind.
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