I had an OB appointment this morning and took the opportunity to really drill a midwife about how things work during labor and delivery. I didn't think of everything to ask at the time but I got some good answers from her that have put some of my worries at rest. She said typically they do not do episiotomies and they always delay cord clamping. She also said I would be able to reach down and pull my baby out and up to my chest myself if I request it. I will be able to deliver how ever I feel comfortable. so that was reassuring as far as actual delivery goes. I found out the midwife and Dr on call are there all day (12 hour shift) so I will be able to speak with them before hand and be sure I know that they know what I would like. By experience, I'm used to them calling the Dr when you are almost ready to push and they show up just in the nick of time if not too late. So that was comforting to know they are there ready to go, and involved during labor. Especially being I probably will not have ever met them previously.
The midwife told me to write my birth plan and bring it in at my 36 week appointment so we can go over it and be sure we agree on everything. The only thing I mentioned that may take some convincing is declining the goopy stuff they put in the babies eyes. It's apparently a state law. She said I will probably just have to sign a waver. Then when delivery time comes to bring in the agreed upon plan so everyone involved knows exactly what I expect. Assuming everyone involved reads it and abides by it.
After my appointment I went up to L&D and spoke to a nurse and had a tour. She seemed very sweet and the atmosphere of nurses everywhere laughing seemed nice. The rooms are very spacious and very non OR like. For some reason in my head I imagine me laying on this tiny bed in the middle of a huge white room with my feet in the air and all these light on me. Even though I know it's not the case. The rooms feel very welcoming and relaxing. So all my fears as far as setting goes are at ease. I do wish I could deliver and just go home to my own bed though... I'll have to stay for at least 24 hours after delivery. The nurse did mention I can't eat much during labor, as I expected, so I need to be sure I eat something before leaving home. They'll require me to be monitored for 20 minutes upon arrival. So that tells me get there sooner rather than later cause I can't sit for 20 minutes while in transition. If history repeats itself this labor won't take long. After the initial monitoring they'll allow me to move freely, shower, get in the tub (if they get them working properly), etc. They also have a birthing ball and a squat bar.
One of the doulas I have received emails from also gave my info to a woman who naturally delivered her baby at Evan's. Her story has reassured me that I will be just fine. Everyone took great care in making sure her wishes were met.
All in all I walked out of there feeling better about delivering there than when I walked in. Still not optimal, but I think I can make it work and it will still be a great experience. :)
Although... a doula I have been speaking to mentioned she will ask some midwives she has connections with to see if they can help me get the home birth I had hoped for. So we will see what comes out of that. I am trying to find the good and be happy with either direction. But in my heart I would love to be home with my family.
My next appointment is scheduled in 6 weeks. And I also have my 20+ week ultrasound on May 6th. So I plan to have a lot more figured out by then. Right now things seem really gray as far as deployment goes. Things keep changing and nothing is sure. Still hoping Josh will be here for the birth no matter what. But it is good to know I will have some support!! :) I will never be able to repay the person who takes time out of her schedule to be there for me when I need her! Doula's are great!!
Here's a belly pic from today 18w 4d
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