How to be a birth partner part 2

I mentioned recently that I was going to be a birth partner for my friend, and this week delivery day finally rolled around.

So, with hindsight rather than speculation, this is what I have learned about being a birth partner:

Turns out, hospitals do have wifi nowadays. You can even get the internet by the side of the bed, though not in the delivery suite so that's where the Facebook updates have to stop. If you are an online kind of person, it's nice to feel there are good vibes coming from people all over the world, most of whom you haven't met.

Things I packed in my hospital bag but did not need included: a Kindle loaded with extra books, plus a novel I need to get through for book group. I mean really, WTF was I thinking?

Didn't have use for my make up bag either. Again, WTF? I think I got a bit confused between going to the hospital and going to the pub.

Nor did the notebook I packed get opened. Triple WTF? So I was going to write a novel, was I, after I'd read a bunch? What a tool.

However, I was glad to have packed a can of pina colada. I left it with my friend so she can treat baby with the world's best flavoured milk.

After the birth I drove back home, miles and miles through the dark night, which was far more stressful for me than the birth. I haven't done a drive like that in over 10 years, but I will notch it up as another victory over driving phobia.

When I got home I burst into tears, not sad tears but just an explosion of emotion that had been building up all day.

All in all, it was a thoroughly amazing experience. I have a new respect for anyone who's ever had a baby (including myself). And also a new respect for birth partners, especially men who may find it all a bit of a mindfuck. In a lot of ways it was easier for me, having had two children, to be a birth partner because I had been there, done that and knew a fair amount about what was happening. I never felt afraid or found it stressful. I felt happy that I could use my experience to help my friend. I feel like it's the best day's work I've ever done.

So after two days of labour, welcome little baby girl, 7lb 11oz of perfection. How wonderful life is, now you're in the world.

Comments

[Mmelindor]

A sweet post. I remember taking a book to the hospital. When I gave birth. When did I hunk I was going to read it then?

Congratulations to your friend and welcome little baby girl.

[Mmelindor]

Think. Not hunk.

There were no hunks present.

[Joanne Mallon]

Thank you! It really was incredible, I'm still recovering.