Homebirth General Discussion #14

[Cricket]

Also, last time i was completely happy for DD to be at the birth if that s what happened. She ended up sleeping through it. She will be almost 4 next time, and at this point i have greater reservations. Maybe cos she can talk and will need greater explanation... i like the idea of it being all natural and kids don't need it hidden from them, but then i wonder do they need to know stuff so early?

For what it's worth - I don't plan to have any of my kids at the birth, but we have read "Hello Baby" with all of them (it's a great book about a family going through a home birth together and it shows birth in a realistic but non-graphic way) and they loved it. I found though that the younger ones (2-5yrs) were much more accepting and nonplussed by the whole "the baby comes out of... THERE?!" thing. The older ones (7-9yrs) were a little more shocked and required more explanation. So whether you decide to have her present at your birth or not, now might be a good time to let her know how birth works. I'd definitely recommend "Hello Baby" if you decide to tell her now.

[Cassius2]

CONGRATULATIONS HOTI!!!



(how's that for sneaking in on the list hahahaha!)

i loved having DD1 there for DD3s birth (she was also at DD2s birth but was younger). But she is really into birthy stuff.

I also questioned my choices for IMs again. I think that is healthy...and totally normal for HB peeps. we know we have choice and want and know how to make informed choices. I did a big think and in teh end opted for the same team. I totally dont regret it as i was really stoked to have to not go through all the old stuff of introductions etc and that my IM really knew me and how i birthed by that stage so there was alot more confidence all round IYKWIM.
that is the one thing that holds me back from moving away from melbourne...having to find a new IM if we have another baby lol!

DotFace: happy to see you back in here! It is fantastic that your mum has given the ok for you to birth there . with it being your first baby there should be some time for you to ask your Dad to temporarily leave and give you the space you and your DH need.

Cricket: your pregnancy is just flying along! I cannot believe it! this whole year is just whizzing past in fact!! where is all this time going??