On Your Mind
As labor looms closer, your thoughts turn to the task at hand. Going into labor and delivery with as much knowledge of the process as possible can make the difference between a positive childbirth experience and a long and arduous one.
Am I Up To the Task of Labor?
Women have been doing this since the beginning of time and under much more difficult circumstances. Yes, in most cases labor will be hard work, but if you prepare yourself by learning what to expect, you will be ready to face whatever comes your way. You'll also find that your spouse or labor partner and coach will be a huge asset in helping you through childbirth.
Am I Up To the Task of Motherhood?
In a word — yes. Great mommies are made, not born. Although some aspects of mothering will seem to come to you instinctively, practice and trial and error will make up the better part of your parenting education. Use the tools around you — your pediatrician, other mothers, and research and reading — to build and sharpen your skills. In the final analysis, listen to your inner voice in the application of what you learn.
Things That Make You Go Grrrrr
As pregnancy winds down, your patience goes with it. The belly rubbers, advice givers, urban-legend spreaders, and comedians seem to be everywhere and completely unaware of the dangerously thin ice they are treading on. Rather than biting heads off, take a deep, deep breath and remind yourself that though insensitive, most are well-meaning. In the meantime, photocopy this list of no-no's for your coworkers and hang it in the break room — maybe it will sink in.
What if I don't get to the hospital in time?
The average labor lasts twelve to fourteen hours, plenty of time to get to the hospital. To avoid any unforeseen delays, work out a route in advance, keep your gas tank full, and have cash on hand for a cab in case your car conks out with the first contraction.
Top ten things not to say to a pregnant woman:
1. Haven't you had that baby yet?
2. Are you still here?
3. Wow, you're HUGE!
4. You really should avoid pain medication when you go into labor — it will hurt the baby.
5. Labor is hell! Take all the drugs you can get!
6. So how much weight have you gained?
7. You don't mind if we call you at home while you're on maternity leave, do you?
8. Are you having twins?
9. You look terrible — why don't you take a nap?
10. Sorry — our restrooms are for employees only.
