Today we took a birthing class at Mount Carmel East Hospital in Columbus. This was really something that Carrie wanted to do, so I somewhat reluctantly agreed to attend with her. ...and as it turns out I am really happy that I did. I think I would recommend it to any couple having their first child.
My reasons for not wanting to go are probably a common theme among new dads...we think we don't need any help - let nature take its course just like it's done for hundreds/thousands of years and lets get on with it. Well I'm sure that would have worked - we would still end up with a baby on the other side, but after this class I guess I am a little more...enlightened?
In the class we discussed almost every common problem or question that couples face during birth/pre-birth. Knowing what is coming down the pike really gave Carrie and I both comfort. Even if the decisions are going to be difficult, we at least know our options ahead of time and that can take a lot of pressure off when its go-time. We really enjoyed the teacher and thought she did an excellent job of presenting all of the relevant stuff without a lot of mumbo-jumbo. Very down to earth, very well spoken.
Mom's status:
Well, we're in the home stretch now (6 weeks to go and counting) and our doctor wants Carrie to start going to the hospital 2 times a week to get "non-stress-tests" done for the baby. What made the doc think this was necessary was because she's been having a lot of contractions - especially when she's going up the stairs, or any other strenuous movement/exercise.
One thing that the linked article on non-stress-tests indicates is that this test may be ordered if the mother has a high-risk pregnancy due to gestational diabetes (or a list of many other things). Carrie's glucose readings have been perfectly normal ever since they have ordered her to test her sugar regularly, so I'm not sure why the alarm. My guess is, this is all part of the "not taking any chances" attitude....which I think is fine.
Another ultrasound is due for this Monday (3/3), so look for more 3D ultrasound pictures soon.
