Well, most of the schools around here resume classes today. My children don't go back for another week, but I am starting another series of "baby classes" as Emma and Hannah say. I teach natural childbirth. Why? Because it is one of my great loves. My Father would say that this is one of those traits that makes me "crunchy". I actually loved being pregnant and giving birth- all three times! The jury is still out on whether or not I will get to do it again.
(Okay I don't love the stretch marks or the 60lb weight gain...but everything else is pretty wonderful!)
Did you know that the percentage of women who give birth via cesarean section is at an all time high in our country? (I just read this article in Mothering Magazine) Over 30% of mothers undergo major abdominal surgery in order to have their babies. As a nation, our theology surrounding birth is unfortunately way off. All the technology is obviously not helping much!
In my classes, expecting parents come each week for 12 to learn how to give birth. In the presence of normality (which is more often then not), we strive for unmedicated births with little or no interventions. With such a lofty goal in mind, it takes practice and a supportive team. The hospital here has an epidural rate of 80%. It is indeed a challenge. Most of my students are referred by the birth center which is run by two midwives.
Another added bonus to teaching is actually assisting couples as their doula. I am there to support both the mother and the father as they progress through labor. As in the picture above (Laurel's birth) I can offer my hand for holding (thank you Melanie). Witnessing a baby's first moment outside of the womb is truly miraculous, but the journey up to that point is also pretty powerful. I am thankful to play my tiny little part in all of it.
