32 1/2 Weeks

Last night at our birthing class we were introduced to props that will help with labor. There were birthing balls (exercise balls), bean bag chairs, and rocking chairs. My favorite position was when I rocked in circles on the birthing ball. There were also cold packs, hot packs, massage tools and hot water bottles for back pain. The hot water battles weren't hot enough to feel anything, but everything else was nice. I felt pampered with all the back, feet and neck massages for Jeremy! The instructor told us to practice our breathing while relaxing. I hate counting while breathing, so that will probably be out of the window during labor. At the end of class the instructor showing a water birth film. After the babies were born the mothers and doctors let the babies hang out underwater for a minute before raising them to the surface. I didn't like how long the babies were underwater for, but the babies don't take their first breath until they're in air. They said that letting the baby hang out underwater for a couple of moments helps the baby adjust to the world easier. The water is the same temperature as the womb and they're not shocked with bright lights and medical intervention. My goal is still it deliver the baby underwater with few if any medical interventions with the lights low and maybe soft music playing.