Winter 2013-2014
We took the hypnobabies course and practiced for our two previous births. We plan to practice it for this one, with Patrick as Meg's primary coach. However, any language is acceptable. Meg is not very sensitive about that.
Meg has preferred being up and active for previous births, including a ball. We would like to try the tub when it is time to push, if that feels right at the time.
We welcome the midwife/nurse to be present as much as they feel is appropriate. We don't have any strong wish for either seclusion or heavy attendance.
Meg loves massage. :-)
Meg is comfortable being checked whenever the midwife/nurse prefers to do that. She can be told details like dilation, etc.
Please delay cord clamping until pulsation ceases. Patrick does not want to cut the cord. Meg would love to nurse as soon as possible. We would like to encapsulate the placenta, so we will have a cooler for storage.
NO to eyedrops.
YES to vitamin K.
Some time after the birth, Meg's parents (Pam and Gary) will come to visit, along with our two boys, Finn (4) and Lachlan (2). Meg's parents will care for the boys.
We would like to continue to try to make the experience as holistic and mama/baby-friendly as possible. Our last birth was at Duke hospital due to a prenatal diagnosis with HLHS, so the experience is not unfamiliar. But we appreciated the presence of a doula last time to help insulate us from hospital procedures.