NANA SAYS COUPLES SHOULD EXPERIENCE THE BIRTH OF THEIR BABY FIRST

How many people should be in the Labour room? This question gets debated. There are some people that want many family members present at the birth of the baby. I have my views. Firstly, it is the couple's experience at becoming parents. They are going from 2 to 3 or welcoming additional children to the family. Secondly, if there are any complications-well family members are briskly asked to leave. In most Birthing Centers there are nice waiting rooms for family to wait. After the event as many family members as wanted can see the newborn fairly soon after birth. My children wanted their special moment and it was just fine with me. I saw all my grandchildren quite soon after birth. It allowed my children and spouses to be with their child alone. Besides there are years to come in enjoying the grandchildren. Extended family is a great support team. Allowing new parents a chance to discover their baby is vital. I know in some cultures the baby is passed to the mother-in-law to be in charge. Personally I do not agree. The baby needs the parents first and the support team second! Over time let the child decide to love all the folks in his/her life. Women's bodies have not changed. So the whole birthing process is individual. Yes there can be difficult births as that has not changed either. Letting the care team do what they have to do without interference is critical to both patients-the Mom and baby! Yes have those cameras ready for those first pictures-no problem. So what do you think?

APRIL 2012- AN EMOTIONAL MONTH

Two birthdays-Sonya and Brody, a new baby in the family and a funeral made this April very emotional. Small celebration for my daughter on the 4th with all the hospital visits occurring. On Easter weekend to lose a close friend who was my son's-in-law's mother was such an emotional turmoil for everyone. My grandson's #4-25th- was very poignant as it was the first time Cheryl-Granma was not present- celebrating and missing someone can occur at the same time. Then for my niece to have a new baby boy-27th- before the end of the month brought renewed joy to our family system after the loss of Mom-Nana in February. A short month but a varied one. How was your April? Was it busy? Did you have some emotional times? Personally, I have never had an April so emotional in my life! How about you? Is there a particular April you remember?