Prepared Childbirth Classes

On Saturday we attended childbirth class.  Instead of stretching the class out, we decided to take it all at once. It was a LONG day!  The class was mostly full with a few moms about to deliver this month, but most of us were due in May.

There were many videos including live birth, active labor, and what happens with baby during delivery.  The class focused much on having a vaginal delivery and what to expect.  Each couple was given a book and folder that contained all of the material.  The instructor talked about guided imagery and Lamaze during child birth and even had us practice.  I expected more time on the floor practicing, but we only spent 15 minutes doing that.  (I almost fell asleep because I was so relaxed.)  She also passed around a baby doll and let us practice swaddling.  Brandon was quick and successful at swaddling the baby doll, but I'm sure it's different with a live, moving newborn!

The funniest part of the day was when they asked if any of the men wanted to wear "the belly."  It weighs 35 lbs and simulates for a man what it's like to carry a child.  Of course my husband volunteered and I got pictures!

Once the class itself was over, we traveled to Brookwood for a tour.  The rooms at Brookwood are fabulous.  Everyone labors and delivers on the 3rd Floor.  After baby is born, within a few hours you are moved to another floor where you stay until you are discharged home.  The size of rooms shocked me.  I had no idea that they would be so spacious.  I'll have to admit, the size of the rooms is a little intimidating to me, because I don't want people hanging around all day long once Elliana is here.  We have so much family and faith family that will be visiting, so it's great to have a large room.  BUT my hope is that people will visit for a short time and then leave.  I may feel entirely different when the day arrives though, but I'm not one that likes many people in one small space.  Anywho, we'll fight that battle when it's here.

I think it's safe to say that I'm super happy that we chose to deliver at Brookwood.  In retrospect, I should have taken pictures of the rooms, but it was crowded with everyone on the tour.  I'm excited that in a little under 10 weeks we'll be welcoming our Elliana to the world!