It's a Wilson World!: Prepared Childbirth 101

Mommy & Daddy are definitely more "prepared" for this whole labor & delivery thing now that we went to our Prepared Childbirth Class at St. Barnabas last Saturday. The day was long and very informative. Our instructor was Sue and she was well versed in all aspects - she had all the answers. The class ranged from couples that were due anywhere from 20 wks to 38 wks.... good thing no one went into labor during class. The guys had a great time tossing jokes around while the women squirmed in the uncomfy chairs and dreaded the graphic videos... but in the end, it was money worth spending.... Here are some highlights:

1. Had a breakout session amongst the Mommy's & Daddy's where we were able to share some of our pregnancy likes and dislikes. Daddy's had some great likes and dislikes (IE: automatic designated driver was a popular one!)

2. Watched videos - some were ok and others were just scary!

3. Played with useful labor massage toys - we are gonna pick up one or two of those to save Daddy from killing his hands!

4. Practiced partner breathing... we definitely need to work of this!

5. Took a tour of the hospital (not that I did not already know my way around that floor!). Saw the actual L&D room where Baby Wilson may make his / her debut.

6.Got the low down on the recovery & visitation policy... as well as what happens to the baby immeadiately following delivery. They have this great program they are just starting called the "Lotus Program" ... the nurses will put a Lotus Note on the door of your post pardum room (if between the normal visiting hours of 11am-8pm) that lets security know that Mommy / Baby are not available for visitors... I think this is great for privacy during breastfeeding.

7. Practiced changing diapers, swaddling and bathing dolls! Mommy has changed hundreds of diapers already thanks to her many years of babysitting and all those little cousins she had. Daddy did a great job changing his "first" diaper!

At the end of the class, we definitely walked away with some great information and conversation topics... Its funny how much you don't realize what trama your body is going to go thru during delivery... I have no idea how any woman is up for visitors after that ordeal! Mommy & Daddy have some basic things to figure out regarding immeadiate post pardum stuff... But once we make some decisions, we will keep all of you posted!