About 9 hours after birth, Analiese had her first bath or should I say washing. Thanks nurse Julie!

This picture is a little blurry, but it is the first one taken of baby Analiese out of the womb. You’ll see Heather’s hand on top of her, my head/hair to the right, and our midwife Mary behind. This picture was just minutes after the birth, so Analiese was still connected via the umbilical cord.

We had our last childbirth class on Monday evening so we are officially, 100% ready to give birth to our first child. Ha! I do feel more prepared and aware of what to expect, but I also realize that this is nothing like anything I’ve experienced before. We’re just praying for a healthy baby girl come February 5th.

At our third class, we were given a handout titled, “The Six Suggestions for a Great Birth from the Lamaze Institute”. I found it interesting that it basically sums up our reasons for wanting to deliver at the ABC Unit. So, I thought I’d share them here:

1. Labor begins on its own 
2. Freedom of movement through all of labor
3. Having a partner, and other support people of your choice with you during labor and birth (Ross will be the only one – besides the midwife – in the room with me when I deliver.)
4. No routine interventions (i.e. epidural, pitocin, vacuum, forceps, episiotome, vaginal exams)
5. Be in a comfortable position, and wait until your body is ready for pushing and birth
6. Have the baby with you right after birth, and in your room so that you can breastfeed whenever you and the baby are ready

The ABC Unit has three deliver rooms available. All are equipped with queen size beds, relaxation tubs, showers and exercise balls. I don’t have to use any of these items, but they’re there just in case. I think the tub and shower will be a nice distraction from time to time. The exercise ball will come in handy when I’m struggling to find a comfortable position. It’s also nice to sit or lay on while getting a back massage. I plan to make a playlist, too…if you have suggestions, feel free to comment below! I just love the flexibility and options I’ll have.