You are halfway there! If you haven't already signed up for a childbirth
class, it's a good idea to try and find one now. They usually begin around
your 28th - 30th week, and can fill up quickly. There are several different
methods you may want to consider.
Lamaze is based on the Lamaze fundamental philosophy of birth:
Birth is normal, natural, and healthy. The experience of birth
profoundly affects women and their families. Women's inner wisdom
guides them through birth. Women's confidence and ability to give
birth is either enhanced or diminished by the care provider and place
of birth. Women have the right to give birth free from routine
medical intervention. Birth can safely take place in birth centers
and homes. Childbirth education empowers women to make informed
choices in health care, to assume responsibility for their health, and
to trust their inner wisdom.
Lamaze classes teach you coping strategies for labor, including focused
breathing, positioning, labor support, massage, relaxation, hydrotherapy,
and the use of heat and cold.
*from Lamaze International, copyright 2000*
Bradley is another childbirth preparation method available. It's also
referred to as husband coached childbirth. Bradley classes are 12 weeks
long, and sometimes begin in early pregnancy. The goals of a
Bradley birth are:
Natural Childbirth
Active participation of the husband as coach.
Excellent nutrition, the foundation of a healthy pregnancy.
Avoidance of drugs during pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding
unless absolutely necessary.
Training:"Early-birth" classes followed by weekly classes starting in
the 6th month, continuing until birth.
Relaxation and NATURAL breathing.
"Tuning-in" to your own body.
Immediate and continuous contact with your new baby.
Breastfeeding, beginning at birth.
Consumerism and positive communications.
Parents taking responsibility for the safety of the birth place,
procedures, attendants, and emergency back-up.
Parents prepared for unexpected situations such as emergency
childbirth, and cesarean section.
Educated parents have the responsibility to make these choices
themselves. They also need to seek personnel who have natural childbirth
experience and who will support their choices.
*from Bradley Method of Natural Childbirth*
SYMPTOMS YOU MAY EXPERIENCE
Breast Changes, tenderness, fullness, darkening of the areola
Frequent Urination
Constipation
Indigestion or heartburn
Occasional headaches
Stretch Marks (cocoa butter can help with these)
Itching
The Baby:
Half way there!!!! Baby is now starting to form vernix.
This is a greasy, white substance that protects baby
from the amniotic fluid. Usually, by the time you
deliver, most of it's gone, but sometimes, you may see
remnants of it. Baby is now about 9.5- 10 ounces, and is
about 10 inches long.
Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It's not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may receive from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor.
if you have any questions or comments!