Birth Class

We graduated from birthing class on June 14th! We took a 5 week class at the hospital on the whole birth experience. The class was taught by two doulas - one of which was pro-natural birth and the other was pro-whatever you need to get through it. We saw some pretty intense films - both beautiful and completely gross. Carrie cried a few times - mostly out of happiness! :) We learned about the various stages and phases and all the possible medical interventions. Most of the interventions scared the heck out of us. We also practiced breathing and relaxation techniques. Kirk did very well at helping Carrie relax, and came up with his own techniques, although the teacher didn't think he'd be able to get Carrie to laugh during real labor!!!

We will be working on our Birth Plan based on what we've learned through class and all the books Carrie has read. Carrie hopes to be strong enough to go natural but realizes she has no idea what it is going to be like and won't be too down on herself if she has to get help. The pain has a purpose, though, and the body is a pretty remarkable thing. Carrie knows that it will benefit her and the baby if she can say no to the unnatural interventions. We'll see how it turns out!

We also took a one-night class on taking care of a newborn. We learned about feeding, bathing, and picking up on a baby's cues. It was fun and sweet watching each other hold, dress, and bathe our baby girl doll. We can't wait to take care of the real thing!!!

Here are pictures of our birth class - we had the latest due date but not by much. Some of the guys were funny to watch during the films - they were a bit squeemish!