Baby Classes

This weekend we attended a baby class that was taught at Reston Hospital. I wasn't sure what to expect, and a little nervous we were going to see some graphic birth video, but I was pleasantly surprised. They did go over the birth process, but it was in the form of powerpoint with artist's renderings instead of photos or video... much easier to stomach.

The class covered a lot of topics, including pain med options, c-sections, tips for natural childbirth, breathing, a talk by a pediatrician, swaddling, diapering, breastfeeding, etc. It was a pretty broad overview of a lot of topics, and was very educational. We also got to tour the labor and delivery area of the hospital, which is really nice. The rooms are all private, have wooden furniture that hides the medical equipment, and some even have jacuzzi tubs (not for birthing, just laboring). We also got to see the newborn nursery, and there was only one little baby in there, but he was so tiny and precious! They strongly believe in "rooming in" with your baby, so I was glad to only see one in the nursery. They do have to go to the nursery for 2 hours to do some things there, but the whole rest of the time they're with you in your room. They're also with you for 1.5 hours right after birth, and the dr. gives you the baby right after the birth- they wipe then off right there on your tummy, which I am really glad for. The staff we met was all very nice too.

All in all it was a great experience and alleviated a lot of my fears about the actual birth. The closer her birthday comes the more excited I get! The next step in baby education for us is a 12 week long Bradley class that we're starting soon- this is really focused on natural childbirth. We're also doing a CPR class.

Just two weeks before we head to Alaska for our first baby shower. Is it really time for showers already? Wow, time is flying! I'll be a mommy before I know it!