Think of childbirth as one big curve ball coming at you at top speed in slow motion, and you’re wearing a blindfold and holding a cardboard bat - and you're naked.
I agree wholeheartedly with this. In my experience from the medical perspective delivering babies when a parent envisions it going a certain way and then it can’t, it’s very emotionally traumatizing. And I’ve seen that be hard for providers to understand as well-- like, why are you upset? You and your baby are healthy?
However someone decides to have their baby, being flexible and having trust and open communication with a good provider is the best recipe, in my opinion, for the best birth experience with the least amount of trauma.
I like how you said the birthing plan was basically nothing more than an intellectual exercise. I’m part of the Brussels Childbirth Trust and we try helping future parents get prepared for birth. There are so many options and decisions to take that it is really important for parents to learn about their options and decide which way they want their experience to go. That way, they will not be as overwhelmed in the situation. At the same time, we do tell them exactly this: Things might not go as you plan, so be open to change. A birthing plan is a guideline for you but nature might have other plans!
I agree wholeheartedly with this. In my experience from the medical perspective delivering babies when a parent envisions it going a certain way and then it can’t, it’s very emotionally traumatizing. And I’ve seen that be hard for providers to understand as well-- like, why are you upset? You and your baby are healthy?
However someone decides to have their baby, being flexible and having trust and open communication with a good provider is the best recipe, in my opinion, for the best birth experience with the least amount of trauma.
Krista, I'd love to interview you for this newsletter - any chance you might be interested?
Absolutely, I’d be happy to! Just email or message me:)
I like how you said the birthing plan was basically nothing more than an intellectual exercise. I’m part of the Brussels Childbirth Trust and we try helping future parents get prepared for birth. There are so many options and decisions to take that it is really important for parents to learn about their options and decide which way they want their experience to go. That way, they will not be as overwhelmed in the situation. At the same time, we do tell them exactly this: Things might not go as you plan, so be open to change. A birthing plan is a guideline for you but nature might have other plans!
I love that you work with the Brussels Childbirth Trust! Any chance you’d be up for a conversation (written or video)?
Always happy to talk about this!