Thursday, July 13, 2006

Things you learn and don't learn in hospital classes

We had the two childbirth related classes we're taking last Saturday, breastfeeding and Infant safety and CPR. I actually got more out of each of them than I was expecting, which was really nice.

One thing that we were told in the bf class, which I'd also read in the LLL book, was that you're not supposed to put soap on your nipples. So I decided that I would try and implement that over the last few days.

Day 1: Washed myself with my usual routine - using my puffy with D0ve bath wash, started with my left arm, then shoulder. Then skipped my chest which usually comes next, and moved over to my right arm. Of course, crossing my soapy left arm over my chest promptly got soap everywhere. After my right arm, then my left upper back, which got soap everywhere on my front that wasn't already soapy. So, scratch that attempt.

Day 2: More involved process - wash left arm / shoulder, and rinse. Rinsing of course sent soap down my front... wash right arm and rinse. More soap. Upper chest - more coursing of soap. Then, M and I usually shower together to save on time and water - while we were switching positions, I happened to rub against his arm - yet MORE soap.

Is anyone actually able to accomplish this???

Then, I had lunch with a friend the other day, and we were discussing her labor experience. She asked if I'd heard / read that one could poop during labor. I said that I had. She then said that there's another part that NO-ONE mentions - not the books, not the childbirth classes, nothing. And proceeded to tell me her story:

When she got to the pushing phase of labor, her sister and husband were in the delivery room with her. Each of them was supporting one of her legs. The first time the nurse told her to push, she pushed very gently, and let go a really loud fart. Since she wasn't expecting that (although it makes perfect sense that it would happen), she had to close her eyes and try really really hard not to laugh. After she was almost in control, she opened one eye to look at her sister, who by her facial expression was in exactly the same boat. After a few seconds, the nurse said "don't worry about it, it's going to happen, but go ahead and get your laughing out of the way", at which point all three of them totally lost it.

I'm really glad that she mentioned it to me, because I am such a giggler - I think it won't affect me as much now that I know it might happen, rather than taking me by surprise.

In Phred news, still having contractions, but still not nearly as much as before the magnesium. I asked at my appointment yesterday about exercising... still no, but I should get the all clear to do a bit after 34 weeks. I'm now measuring a little big for 32weeks, but doc wasn't worried. Although she did mention my weight for the first time at this appointment, after I gained 7 lbs since the last one! I think it's a lot of water though, as my ankles are starting to swell, and my fingers too. Total gain of 23lbs so far (including that 7!), so I really don't think that's so bad.

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

Yeah, I've thought about some of the "unladylike" stuff that can happen during delivery - trying to get myself into a que sera, sera mindset about that. Thing is, I can probably count on M. to tease me mercilessly about any emissions for the rest of my life. 'Cause he's so mature like that.

Glad Phred is still holding fast. Still - two months or less - can you believe it?

Anonymous said...

I tried the whole no soap on the nipple thing too and can't seem to manage it either. Two more months!

S said...

I couldn't get the soap thing down so I just did the best I could to rinse afterwards.

As for labor and giggling, when they broke my water it came gushing out and I mean GUSHING! It felt so weird and I just couldn't help laughing, which made it gush even more.

Having a sense of humor about the whole process is definitely a good thing. :)

EAB said...

32 weeks -- you're getting so far along! Nice to hear a good report, too :).

DD said...

SEE! I knew there was an advantage to my C-section.

No poop or toot for me.

Kellie said...

23lbs is nothing my dear - I gained nearly that each month. (Well not really but I certainly felt and looked it.)

Not everyone poops. Each time labor started for me I had such horrific intestinal pain that by the time I got to the hospital I was (thankfully) completely empty. I was quite happy my body choose to leave me that shred of dignity.

Well-heeled mom said...

I was the lamaze coach for a dear friend of mine and she didn't poop or fart, but then she barely made it to the hospital in time to have the baby. Tiny little slip of a girl, too, about a size 1. Isn't that the way it always is?

Anonymous said...

Your friend's story is too funny, and thank God for honest friends who tell us the real poop, so to speak!

How exciting -- I'm glad the classes went well.

WonderMama said...

Almost everyone poops, but I've actually not heard too many women fart during pushing. But thanks for giving me something else to worry about!
I'm glad your contractions have slowed down and that you may be able to start getting some exercise soon!

Liz said...

It's good to know what to expect. Too funny about your friend.

Glad Phred is doing well. You're doing great with the weight gain.

Anonymous said...

I just can't believe you are 32 weeks...incredible!
I am glad to hear that you and Phred are hanging in there, still.

Katie said...

It seems like the laughing could be really good!