Monday, January 10, 2011

bring on the good vibes...

 
As I am approaching closer and closer to the day I will give birth I am working very hard at understanding my options, hearing positive stories about birth and working on creating good energy and confidence for this summit I am about to climb. However, I can't help but notice the lack of support for a positive, natural birth experience. It's become very clear that most people have a negative view of birth.

I got to thinking about this: when a teenager prepares for a driving test, practicing their signalling, parking and merging, do we tell them horrible stories about car accidents we've been in, or heard about, or saw on the news? Do we feed them statistics about how many people a year die a bloody death in automobile accidents? Do we show them photos of crashed up cars who were hit by drunk drivers? NO! Of course we don't! Because that poor young person would probably get in the car on the day of their exam and have a meltdown!

So why, then, do people feel the need to share with me the horrors of childbirth? Why do people feel the need to tell me all of the reasons I might need a c-section or an induction or an epidural? I don't think it's to educate me. I think it's to share the fear that they themselves have about childbirth. FYI: not helpful people! Please, the next time you are tempted to tell your pregnant friend about a cousin who suddenly birthed her child at 28 weeks or a neighbour who "failed to progress" and was rushed to surgery think about what kind of negative energy you are passing on to her. We've all seen "A Baby Story" and "Knocked Up". We don't need any more of that! Please, a pregnant women should be supported and cheered on!

So, I've got 7 more weeks! Start sending me some positive vibes!

Finally, if anyone is interested, "Birth Without Fear " has been an amazing tool for preparation for birth. I read it all night when I'm awake and everyone else in the house is asleep.
Particularly, read this post!

Love Always,
Joan Blondina

8 comments:

BB said...

Sara, thank you for this post. It's interesting how people so naturally pass on negativity as a response to our fears or insecurities. But, we know how strong of a momentum positive energy has to counter the negativity. You are a strong woman, you have a loving, supportive partner and you have empowered yourself throughout your pregnancy. Your mind, body and soul will know what to do when your little guy is ready to come out and meet the world... and I know you will birth beautifully!

Anonymous said...

My sister told me regular stuff that goes on during childbirth and it scared the crap out of me. I am terrified of childbirth when it's complication free, so I can only imagine how you feel when people tell you horror stories.

I am sending positive vibes your way! You'll be fine. You've done your research, know your options and are going to do fabulous.

Anonymous said...

I couldn't agree with you more. By the way, if you want an empowering story to read, go read mine on Birth Without Fear Discussions page. Titled something like "Wonderful Unassisted Homebirth" You can do it girl. Tell those people to keep the negativity to themselves, and keep believing in yourself. You are gonna do great, and have a great story to pass around!!

joan blondina said...

Thank you for the comments everyone! I know that others mean well, I do. However, I know that I need to be surrounded by positivity at this time. Thank you for supporting me. It really meants a lot! I am getting very excited for this babies big debuit!

joan blondina said...

Amber, I was scared of childbirth as well before I became pregnant. But being pregnant, it's kind of a 'must do' for the baby to come, so I had to face my fears. But to be honest I am not afraid at all. When/if you do come to that point, watch as many natural childbirth videos as you can. The ones we see on TV are terrifying. Don't even watch those ones!

Anonymous said...

I don't think most of us have a negative view on birth! I do think all of us who have gone through this have had our fears. Having a birthing plan whether at home or hospital is a good idea, you have a great support system to help you with your wishes and you can concentrate on when your little one decides to enter this world. Your body already knows what it has to do! The rest is mental and your well prepared.

joan blondina said...

Anonymous, I am glad to hear you say that we don't all have a negative view on birth. That's very hopeful! We have talked about a birth plan and I hope to find a creative, beautiful way to write it all out so that it may inspire and encourage everyone who is present when the babe is on his way!

Anonymous said...

I've had a few friends plan on having a natural childbirth...and when their plan didn't go perfectly - they were terribly disappointed and scared because they never even thought about having to have an assisted birth. I was induced after 10 days past my due date on the recommendation of my midwife. I did have an epidural and things went well - I think it's great to have a plan and know what you want - but also don't be oblivious to what could happen - so that you aren't disappointed afterward. It breaks my heart hearing 2 of my friends talk about their "unplanned" c-sections and how horrible and scared they felt because they never even considered a c-section... knowledge is power in my book!