Happy test taking to all those sitting the exam Friday! Take a deep breath (in to the count of 7, hold for a moment and release to the count of 11...works wonders for relaxing!).

You'll do fine...just remember, what is normal and you will do fine!
Colette L. Baran
CLC, LCCE, CD(CBI), CHBE
(413)652-3433

'I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I
cannot do interfere with what I can do.' (Edward Everett Hale)


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< replied-to message removed by QT >

Anyone else out there taking the exam this Friday? I am excited but nervous! I wanted to let everyone know that you can take a 7-question practice Lamaze exam at the LaserGrade/PSI website at http://65.106.153.37/

You have to be using Internet Explorer. You just click the button for Lamaze International Demo Test and then click on the Start button. Good practice!

Hello!

I've changed my email address to normalbirthadvocate@gmail.com. You can reach me there :)

Angela

On Jun 20, 2009, at 4:18 AM, QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic-38- GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote:

< replied-to message removed by QT >

I'm looking for ideas on topics and activities to have a PFB-style early pregnancy class, which I've identified as being a very effective way to get students for the childbirth classes! So I thought I'd throw it out to other educators of the PFB ilk...I want the 2 hour (or so) early pregnancy class to be similar to how I teach in the childbirth classes. Ideas, ideas? What have you tried, seen, heard of?

Thanks!

Nicole

 I am on the border of Indiana and Michigan Stella..(my family lives in the Detroit area too) I am also looking for someone who can empathasize w/ my course design issues. I just attended the weekend seminar for pfb in IL. I am excited to get started- I wish I had the topics for the course design exercise Terri does.. I am currently creating the topics that are required by lamaze so wish me luck. JAnice of IN

Dear Stella,

I just received my CD via UPS today and my sweet (supportive!!) dh drove it over to Kinkos..I thought that it would be at least 24 hours since that is what I was told on the phone..but the gentleman at Kinkos told dh it would be about 15 minutes so dh waited on it and suprised me! OH..I tried to print it out from the online version but it took a LONG time and the results were not as good from what I did get printed out compared to what Kinkos could do in a much shorter time. :) It is so nice to have it all neatly printed out, right in a binder to go through..there is so much good stuff in this program. I am THOROUGHLY IMPRESSED with the stance Lamaze has taken on evidence based care..I had no idea until recently that they were such big supporters of normal birth. I guess I had a lot of ignorance and
misconceptons about what Lamaze stood for but I am so happy I
was misinformed! I know it will be a lot of work but yet I know I will feel really accomplished once I am a LCCE. I was looking through the
exam booklet sample questions and I was very comfortable with the material..I am hoping all the reading and work I have been doing for the past 10 years (nearly, wow!) will come into play and not make this as daunting as it feels in my mind at times to accomplish. I wish you the best on your journey.. a hoosier here, sorry not too close to you up in MI. I am hoping another birth worker decides on PfB locally so I will have someone closeby to network with. It is a definate possibility and I am really excited. I hope something similiar works out for you too. Are there any birth related networks or study groups in your area? Maybe something like that could help keep you motivated..and hey, you could always start something! ;)

All the best,
Jenni Shaver

Hello everyone,

I just signed up and received my CD and online information as well. I am excited! I even went to my first birth last Friday!! My question is, is there anybody who is enrolled or has graduated and who lives in Michigan? I have a pretty busy schedule and having someome to keep me on track would help (and we could talk about birth!!)

Thank you,
Stella

Thank you so much for the suggestions Stacie! I will definately keep them in mind--especially the smaller binders, etc. I have just started going through the Study Guide but WOW, am I impressed even so far. There is a LOT of information but I know it will enhance what I am able to offer to my community, so it is definately worth it. Everyone has been so kind and helpful.

All the best,
Jenni

Congratulations! The nice thing about this is you can easily do baby steps through the program.

One thing I did -- and I know others have done it, too -- was to break down the big blue binder into 3 or 4 smaller binders, if you chose the hard copy. It makes it easier to manage and flip through.

As I came across articles that I thought would be good references for classes if special issues arose, I would mark them with a Post-It. For example, one I like, off the top of my head, is about gestational diabetes.

The work in the PfB binder can be very helpful not only for your personal development, but also to get you out into your community and into your local birth world. It makes it easier to approach those involved in birth already by having it seem like a requirement. This helps as you network and get ready to fill your future classes!

Although I attended my seminar as a nursing mother, I left my nursling home, so I was more like a pumping mother, lol. We didn't have any babies at our seminar, but at my DONA training we had a baby, and although the woman and her mother attended, I would imagine, because of the group this appeals to, there would be other attendees happy to help out with a baby for a few minutes if needed.

Don't worry about the peer teaching -- the instructor gives you all the information you need to set it up in a PfB-friendly way. Essentially, if you have a topic you know a lot about or want to choose, just have the info there, and she will give you the guidelines for how you can frame it. Maybe you should choose breastfeeding? You would have a model!

You will be well-supported on this journey. Welcome!

Stacie

Edited by author 05-20-2008 02:23 PM
I just purchased the study guide and I am really excited to be on this path. Any advice for someone just enrolling? I printed out all the forms and paperwork available on the PfB website and I have it in a cute lil folder, so I can have it easily accessible as I work through things. Organization is our friend, LOL. :) I am now waiting for the study guide to arrive. I am excited to delve in. I am going to try to make it to a PfB seminar in less than a month and I am excited to learn, based on what I have read about the PfB program and have "heard" from others who have chosen this program... I admit..the peer teaching session has me a bit nervous though. I will have my in arms nursling and one of my daughters as a mothers helper for when I need hands free. Any other moms who have attended with nursing baby in arms? Tips for making it go more smoothly? Thanks in Advance.

All the best,
Jenni

I also took the test last wednesday and feel good about it, as Stacie does. I did learn that I definately got one wrong. While discussing an up and coming CE class with another CE Lamaze instructor, she simply mentioned one item that actually had been on the test, but I had never heard of or read before.... I got wrong. I should have met with my friend BEFORE the test and would have known the answer (ha ha). I can tell you this; it's one item I will ALWAYS remember and pass on to students! All in all I feel pretty confident that I passed. Thanks Teri for thinkng of all of us.

I was thinking about everyone all day Wednesday - knowing you were answering all those questions...hopefully everyone felt like Stacie did - confident! The quickest way to get your results is to keep track of the code number they gave you. They will post the p/f on the website as they mail out your packet. They usually are able to do that a little bit before the date they gave you but a lot depends on how many questions were challenged and how long the psychometrician takes to run all the data on each question.....
I look forwrd to getting all those exuberiant emails - "I PASSED!" (But I am there for support if the results are not what you hoped for)

Took the test! I feel confident I did well. When will we know the results? June? Anything before then?

So glad it's over! Hope everyone did well!

Hi Noelene!!! Things are going AWESOME with the little one, thank you for asking! She's already almost 8 months. Can you believe it? Time just flies! I don't have your email address, but mine is "birth with confidence @ comcast . net" (without all the spaces, don't want spammers!). Tell me how your progress has been and if you're taking the exam this month and all that stuff! I'm not taking mine until October (because of the little ones mostly) and my progress has had a lot of bumps along the way, but I'll tell you more in email. :)

I use it in both a coping with labor pain class, runs two hours, and I start it a bit into early labor (let it start about 15 minutes before class and stop it before pushing) as well as almost the full two hours in a prenatal visit with doula clients. (also stop at pushing) I find it VERY effective in conjunction with ice. I am happy to share more info on how I do this, if anyone is interested!

Sharon
April is Cesarean Awareness Month

Sharon Muza, CD (DONA, PALS)
Birth Doula, DONA Approved Doula Trainer
Birth and Family Educator
New Moon Birth
www.newmoonbirth.com
sharon@newmoonbirth.com


< replied-to message removed by QT >

By the way- Hi Angie! it's been a year but I hope that everything is going will with the "new" little one.

Edited by author 04-16-2008 04:29 PM
Has anyone used the Labor Simulator during class? I think it would be a great teaching tool. If you have used it, do you use the 2-hour version, 80-minute version, or 60-minute version? Thanks

Edited by author 03-30-2008 06:04 PM
In preparation of the Laamze exam, I have been reading the study guide again. One thing that really stood out yesterday was from Comp I, "Home Birth: Safely Protecting and Supporting Normal Birth," by Judith Lothian.

There is such rich information in there. As a woman who has had three hospital births, the first a pretty good show of the cascade minus a cesarean (but a full pit-induction, I wanted an epidural and I wasn't able to get one, so I had to reorganize my brain at 7 cm so I wouldn't be a puking, crazy mess; I pushed for three hours in dead cockroach position only to have my doc walk in and say, "Why did you call me, she's not ready yet. Then I had my baby vacuumed out of me and I was left with a 3rd degree epi/tear that took 10 weeks to heal -- and a baby who became septic 24 hours after birth, most likely an iatrogenic result of 50 million vag exams after my water was broken. It was not pretty, but boy, did I learn a lot!), and two more fabulous births with no interventions and midwives assisting, I have not been ready to know in my heart if homebirth could ever be for me. I know it is safe. I know there are so many benefits, and as a doula, I love attending homebirths because of the change in atmosphere. I just wasn't sure I could ever do it.

After reading that article, I know, if I ever have another baby, it will only happen at home.

I was recently talking to a friend (who is an L&D nurse and had one of her babies at home), and she just had her 3rd baby at the hospital where she works. There weren't any interventions. He was 37 weeks, and he was having trouble breathing on his own -- weak white boy lungs. They had to send him to a bigger hospital 2 hours away, and when he finally came home a week or so after birth, he still had O2 to help him out.

We discussed how, when your baby is in the NICU, it's not like he is your baby at all -- it's like he belongs to the hospital. What is interesting for me is, my first stayed in the hospital for 11 days to receive IV antibiotics due to his sepsis. I was discharged on day 2, and the only place for me to be was in a hard, wooden rocking chair, on my very sore bottom. Needless to say, I didn't feel there was a place for me, like I wasn't supposed to be there all the time, and I was trying to nurse my own body as well. So I only came every three hours to nurse him.

One time at midnight I worked hard to get there to nurse him, and the nurse had just fed him a bottle of formula. I tried not to let the tears show as my face burned with fire. There he was, all asleep, contented in his plastic cage with a tummy full of milk that wasn't mine. I actually didn't care about the formula so much as I worked hard to get there and they didn't wait. "But my baby was crying, and I couldn't let him starve." Who said that? The nurse. I didn't even pick him up because I felt like I wasn't allowed to.

That's how the hospital can make you feel. After reading Judith's article I realized it is not just when you have a sick baby, it's the whoel experience. We are too easily made to feel we are messing with things that will harm us or our babies.

I don't want that, and if I have another baby, I will not go to the hospital. If I get the opportunity to birth another baby, that's just what it will be -- my opportunity.

Okay, talk about long-winded!

What an incredible website! I just emailed them to see what it would take to get an ICAN chapter here. The closest is in Baltimore. I called the mom and let her know it was there. She's goign to check it out when she gets off work. Anyway, thanks Teri!

*sigh*

We've all heard these stories before, but this one in particular tugged at my heart. I saw a lady yesterday that I met in the hospital's birthing classes last summer. She gave birth to her baby boy 8 months ago. She is a "poster child" for the cascade of interventions to a spectacular degree, but also, where obstetrics goes wrong. At 5 days beyond her due date, her OB chose to induce her. Baring in mind that the childbirth classes at our hospital does nothing to discuss options, evidence based decision making, or informed consent, this mom thought that she didn't have the ability to protest. She was in the low risk category and there were no other indications for induction. So she went in at 7 am, they started her on pitocin and she failed to progress beyond 3 cm by mid afternoon. The doctor decided that if by 6:00 she still hadn't progressed much further, the doctor would perform a cesarean. By 6:00 she hadn't gone much further so they did the cesarean. The baby was healthy, but mom didn't get to see him until after 2 in the morning. The hospital chose to feed/supplement the baby in spite of the moms wishes to breast feed. The supplementation was continued throughout the whole stay because the following day it was determined that the baby had become dehydrated. Also the next day, mom began to lose a lot of blood and was given 2 units of blood. Her stay at the hospital was filled with personnel being rude to her and very unaccommodating... and anyway, you get my point. It was a terrible experience, and as she was telling this to me, more than 8 months later, her eyes were filling with tears and she was telling me that she was battling depression on occasion because she felt so robbed of the experience of birthing her baby. She said that her friends thought she was crazy for wanting to experience labor as opposed to a cesarean, so she's had little support to help her through her PP emotional difficulties. I gave her my phone number and email address and asked her to contact me because having someone who understands may help her process this experience better. She wants to have another baby sometime soon but is afraid of not being allowed a VBAC (something the OBs here wont even consider). She's also recently been experiencing pain in the last few months near where her incision is, which the doctor says is nothing and she may experience pain there the rest of her life.

I'm sure you ladies have heard horror stories not unlike this one. As educators, how to you help comfort these women? There are very limited resources around here for PP support, and I want so badly to help this young woman get through this experience that haunts her! Anything thoughts would be fantastic, and thanks for reading this lengthy story!

Stella - if you send me an email with what town you live I will be happy to see if there is anyone nearby who has gone through Passion for Birth. Typically it takes abut 6 - 9 months to finish - some have a place to teach already so it is quicker - others have things that happen like getting pregnant, moving, etc that slow them down.
Ask any questions you have!

Hello!

I have been interested in pregnancy and birth for many years and since I don't think that I could be a doula because of my job, I am really looking into becoming a childbirth educator. I just found out about Passion for Birth tonight and I am very interested. How long would you say it tipically takes for people to do the whole program? (Not including the wait for the exam since it's only twice a year)

And also, is there a way to check if there already are childbirth educator in my area that trained with Passion for Birth?

Thanks for your answers ladies.

I didn't catch it, I have had a busy doula week with a baby on Tuesday and a baby on Thursday. I have seen them before, and I have been in with mom's before. It is certainly...different.

I really like the images Mothering Magazine had in their January edition of the cesarean birth procedure. I actually copied, enlarged, and mounted them on cardboard to share with my classes.

I have a question for you guys: I am a thrift-store shopper. What I always see are crib bumpers. I am trying to see if, for $1.50 each (on a half-off day, lol) I could sew them together in such a way that they create a mat of sorts for moms or partners to sit on or kneel on during class and/or activities. What do you guys use? I think mats would get expensive, and the office where I teach only has chairs thus far.

Stacie

Anyone here get to watch the cesarean? I can't believe anyone would CHOOSE that!!!

how exciting!!!!
 
Christy Shields, CLD
_www.MothertheMother.com_ (http://www.motherthemother.com/)
_www.OperationSpecialDelivery.com_ (http://www.operationspecialdelivery.com/)




**************It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms, and advice on AOL Money & Finance. (http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf00030000000001)

My friend Liz, www.birthzone.com, has generously offered to provide the Labor Simulator DVD free to the first two people from each state in the US and each province in CA who submit an electronic entry on her website:
Entry form is at http://birthzone.com/products.htm

Spread the word so that many people have the chance to enter from all around the US and Canada!

And, I am happy to share with you how I use it for both doula prenatals as well in class.

Best,
Sharon

Sharon Muza, CD (DONA, PALS)
Birth Doula, DONA Approved Doula Trainer
Birth and Family Educator
New Moon Birth
www.newmoonbirth.com
sharon@newmoonbirth.com


< replied-to message removed by QT >

I use one when I teach a coping with labor pain class, (along with some other tricks,) but it is VERY effective!

As a doula, I also use it in a prenatal!

Liz rocks www.birthzone.com and would be happy to answer questions, as would I.

Best,
Sharon

Sharon Muza, CD (DONA, PALS)
Birth Doula, DONA Approved Doula Trainer
Birth and Family Educator
New Moon Birth
www.newmoonbirth.com
sharon@newmoonbirth.com


< replied-to message removed by QT >

Thanks, Teri. I will check it out. Right now I am watching the Educational Edition of Birth As We Know It to see if I can use any clips in classes. The creator lives here in Chico so although I am familiar with the regular version, I have not seen this edition.

Anyone use that in classes?

I have one - you can learn more about it at Liz's site and she would probably appreciate it if you ordered directly from her - you can hear a practice contraction and download the teaching tips etc. http://www.birthzone.com/laborsimulator.htm

Anybody have a labor simulator? I am looking at one available through Childbirth Graphics. http://www.childbirthgraphics.com/storefro...ocess_simple_search

It seems like it might be a useful tool -- regardless of the time of the simulation, what appeals to me is the timing of the "contractions," which, in this day and age, would be hard to simulate (since we don't really do tapes so much).

Anyway, looking for thoughts.

Stacie

Hi Ladies! I found a website that will be broadcasting a live cesarean birth on March 13th. Its a live surgery broadcast site! Check it out: http://www.or-live.com/index.cfm?googleID=shm_1891

Another thought--maybe the formula company sent him a massive amount of the bags and he desperately wants to get rid of them any way possible.

Oh Colette!!!! I have had problems non stop with our hospital here. Its only recently that they've taken the formula bags out of their education classes (every cb student would get one). I live in the rapidly growing once small town of Salisbury Maryland and I've been confronted on every level with lack of breastfeeding support. The hospital's lactation consultant (theres only one hospital and one consultant) says that her biggest battle is actually the pediatricians and in my own breastfeeding experience I completely believe her. I wonder if, like with pharmaceutical companies, doctors get any kind of kick back for recommending specific formulas? I'm sure everyone will say that its illegal and of course that doesn't happen...... but I just wonder. I like Teri's idea too, focusing on the positive support he gives your classes but emphasizing your need to encourage breastfeeding. If he's an advocate of breastfeeding, I'm sure he'd sing your praises to hear how committed you are.

On a sidenote, I feel your pain on the dreaded phone calls from the hospital. I'm no longer welcome to be involved with the hospital's education department here because a sidebar conversation I had with a pregnant couple led to them leaving their OB for a midwife. Its a hard line to walk remaining politically correct, but I have to draw my own personal line at the evidence based truth.

You are an inspiration for staying true to your own values and sense of obligation to deliver the most supported research!

Good luck Collette! I wanted to make sure that everyone knows about the website www.banthebags.org Lots of good information about this initiative to alleviate having hospitals market for formula companies.

That is the issue...this hospital still gives out formula discharge bags (but will remove the formula samples...not recognizing that it still makes a big difference when they get a bag from the healthcare team with a formula name tag) this hospital is not willing to give up that practice quite yet ($). They (including the nurses) are all of the mind set that they are providing "choice" to parents...GRRRR. Perhaps this is also a good time to bring up them financing a breastfeeding dishcharge bag (which Berkshire Nursing Families has in the works...just need $ for the actual bag). So I don't know that they will back me up. The director of the lactation program is TOTALLY behind me...I think she might be a bit more upset about it than I am (if you can imagine). I was contemplating talking to the VP of patient services (my boss) first to see where she stood.�D;
�D;
I love your idea...I think I may do that...perhaps with Hershey kisses (little silver nipple awards...LOL). �D;
 �D;
Thanks for your quick feed back. On another note...new class series starts tonight and I am being asked to "show the nurses my class" I have one observing this series...not sure how I feel about that yet. I get into trouble without them there what are they going to do when they hear it for themselves?! (delayed cord clamping is the current hot topic w/ the hospital ..they ask me not to talk about it...as well as circumcision, vaccinations, homebirth, informed consent, etc.) I never imagined that being a childbirth educator would get me into so much trouble! LOL! Every time the phone rings & its the hospital I take a deep breath and wonder...what is it now that they don't like? Be assured...I keep on the path...I have told them that I can teach elsewhere, but I have to be true to the clients. &#EF;&#BB;&#BF; &#EF;&#BB;&#BF; &#EF;&#BB;&#BF; �D; �D;
THanks again.�D;
 �D;
Colette L. Baran, CLC, LCCE, CHBE, CD(CBI)�D;
www.mybirthguru.com �D;
Berkshire Nursing Families�D;
(413)743-5338�D;
Berkshire North WIC

Wow Collette - how loud was the "thunk" when your jaw hit the floor? How awkward to get blind sided. I would copy the evidence, write him a nice thank you note for coming and his support of breatfeeding moms in he past and then add a line about how these can not be handed out in cb class and ask him to consider not handing them out to his patients. I find confronting people in situations like this is best done with honey - in this case maybe homemade cookies....
Does the hospital have a policy to support you?

Hi everyone. So I have a bit of an issue and thought perhaps you all would have some insight for me. I teach classes at my local hospital but I also work at that same hospital as a lactation counselor. I had class the other night which there was a guest speaker...a local pediatrician (whom we have had before and in the past has been very bf friendly). He came late and upon his arrival he takes out all these formula bags and starts passing them out!! I was horrified...but didn't know what to do...embarrass him in front of everyone and make working relations strained? No, I said nothing. He asked me in front of the class at the end if I would like to distribute the rest to anyone...to which I replied that I couldn't do that under the rules of my certification.

I feel like the issue needs to be addressed...I need to make sure that this never happens again...but I want to do so in a way that will educate and not put a divide between drs and lactation/education. A part of me is a bit excited that he did this because it opens the door for education on the research demonstrating the dangers of that practice.

Any suggestions on how I should proceed?

Thanks!!
Colette

I feel you on the more time being more knowledge. My situation is I have a newborn and a toddler. Makes for fun days!!! If I get to read anything it usually has more to do with tweetle beetles than childbirth!

Rachel, I tried, and tried, and tried. Our area is pretty oversaturated with childbirth educators, although there is only one LCCE, and she is from the dark ages of the organization, and I mean that in only the nicest ways possible.

I couldn't fill classes. I did get many referrals for families experiencing bedrest. I also set up childbirth education as a separate thing for my doula clients. I tracked all of those hours for the exam.

In October, I just got lucky, and a friend who was teaching for a local midwives office was finished and she wanted out. I expressed my MAJOR interest in the project, and I was asked to be the new teacher! I even sent un my CV to get the job, although I know all those midwives well -- I wanted it all to be nothing but professional. Along with my CV, I sent them current Lamaze info, because they had no idea about the changes from a method to a philosophy.

Just keep trying, and get your name out there! Go to Perinatal Council meetings, breastfeeding coalition meetings, get to know you LLL Leaders, IBCLCs, public health nurses, CPSP program directors (if that isn't just a California thing?), etc. Try to find ways to connect with people who work with pregnant families. Check out your local battered woman's shelter -- I contacted mine and asked if they ever had women who needed classes, and they said yes! They were happy to have me help. Also, if you have a teen-parent class or program at a local school, I went to mine and chatted with the gals, and once in a while I would come with a topic prepared by the teacher's request. Look for community outreach events, like we have a community baby shower where everyone involved in baby/pregnancy things can have a booth. Toys R Us and Babies R Us -- even Eal-Mart, often have special baby things where professionals can come and talk to expectant parents.

Good luck!

Angela, I was also planning to sit the exam in October, but I couldn't get it all together. I am sitting this April. One thing I am happy about: I teach this stuff all the time, weekly. If we teach true Lamaze, like from the blue binder and the Essential Guide, that's all the stuff that will be on the test. So I feel really ready for the test. More time feels like more knowledge for me.

Hello Ladies,
I just became certified this past October and I just finished my first series of classes by myself. I did private class for this couple.I still can't believe that I am a certified lamaze teacher. Driving to their house for the first time i became nervous, but I had to keep reminding my self that I am certified that I have prepared for this for a long time, That I know what I am doing. So tonight was our last class, and I feel a little sad that its over, I don't have another class sceduled, I have a question to you ladies how do you market yourself????? thanks for listening
Rachel
>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hello ladies!

I was curious to see where everyone from the April 2007 DC seminar is in their process. I saw Noelene is taking her exam next month. Hooray!!! I've been hitting some brick walls, so I'm not sitting for my exam until October. I've got one more birth and a lot of reading left. Its truly been a journey getting this far, but I'm looking forward to these last few steps. Teri and Ann keep me on track quite well!!!

Is anyone else here completely fixated on pregnant bellies? I think they may be my favorite thing in the world, except my own two little bundles of joy. I love them!

Angela :)

You should be set to go!! I don't think you need to get ahold of Lamaze - just mail it in!

It does, indeed, have my name on it :).

Thanks Teri.

Stacie
who is still trying to get ahold of Lamaze -- maybe she doesn't have to now?

Does it have your name on it? If yes, you are set! Experienced path should be fine.... I am on the road so I can't remember but if you have sent me your written eval of the person who observed you teaching, you can also go on the new track....let me know.

It says "This LLL NCA/HI program approved by IBCLE (long-term provider), the Commission on Dietetic Registration and the California BRN (Provider No. CEP 6855)." So a copy of this continuing ed certificate is all I need?

It doesn't help that I have also just finished my recertification with DONA as a birth doula. And really, DONA is a lot easier to deal with -- they get right back to me. I missed my Lamaze window again today to call.

Teri, if I have both options of applying (experienced ed or newbie), which should I do? I did track out hours yesterday (I got 144 exactly with the combo I used by random chance, which I thought was funny). So the Lamaze training, plus these 7 CEs, I should be good to go for experienced educator? Sorry to bother you so much. I just need clarification!

Stacie - sorry it has been frustrating! Does the form from LLLI say 7 contact hours? That's all that is important. You can ignore the IBCLC and the other blanks.

Document you teaching experience on a blank sheet of paper and attach it! Write "see attached" in the space.

Breathe in, breathe out!

I have questions about the Lamaze Exam and paperwork, specifically the continuing education required. So I have the 20 hours form the seminar. I am trying to figure out the additional 5 I need. I have something here fomr a LLL Conference I attended in 2005 (October) that states I received an additional 7. I never paid too much attention to the form because I didn't need it for anything. Now I need to note these CEUs. Basically, my form says the name of the conference, my name, and then there are three blank spots for with BRN#, CDR#, or IBCLC#. So is it assuming I have a personal number to fill in one of those slots? Because I am not a nurse, dietician, or IBCLC. At the bottom, it has the BRN provider #.

Can anyone help? I am not having luck with Lamaze returning emails, and I keep calling during the incorrect business hours, although I will try again tomorrow.

I am almost thinking about going th inexperienced pathway simply because I did have someone observe my classes, just in case, and it may be easier. I attended another conference last April I am trying to get the CEU proof from (another 7 CEUs). But if it looks like this, I will still be confused.

Also, how in the world am I supposed to document 144 hours in the slots they give on the application? Even if I put down 10 series', that's still 2 series' short of space. And does this need to be documented, other than filling it in and if they decided they want to check up, they will?

Any info would really be apprciated.

Stacie

On March 15, I will start sending out a question of the day for those who are taking the April exam and have gone through Passion for Birth...it is nothing fancy but just a way to remind you to keep studying and hopefully build your confidence. If you want to get on the list (and it is a yahoo group) send me teri@passionforbirth.com and email and let me know.

I am attending the Boise Idaho workshop. Is anyone else going? Just wondering where everyone is staying (hotel/friends/own home). I am coming from Bend, Oregon...six hours away. I have my 10 mth old with me.

I would love to join a study group, Noelene. I will be email you.
For anyone else my email is liz@joyousbeginnings.com.

We did something really fun last night -- a spin on labor stations, but with comfort measures. I explain it all here if you want more ideas. http://mdhardy.net/birthprofessionals/index.php?topic=14.0

I really wish I could find the massage ball i bought to share it here, but I can't find an example, and I threw the packaging away! I got it at Wal-Mart, it is really cool -- a dog toy :).

I'd like to start an active study group for the Lamaze Exam in April. Is anyone who is taking that exam interested in participating in a study group? I am setting up a google group. If you are interested in joining, email me at cruzanhoya@gmail.com.

I hope this is okay, but I am posting a link to a board a friend and I are trying out. We like all these boards, and it is hard when there isn't much traffic. I am posting this in the hope that, if someone out there wants a place to connect with a little more traffic, she can do so here: http://mdhardy.net/birthprofessionals/index.php

Stacie
Chico, CA

Edited by author 01-07-2008 08:04 PM
Barbara, thanks for your good idea, I appreciate it and I am going to try that this week.

I just got my new Lamaze magazines, and I really like them. I could see teaching my whole series from them. I like the new format of keeping the three topics in one publication. I know I am going to not only share these with my students, but refer to them a lot.

I have class members participate as part of a time line. I have one person stand at the beginning of labor, one at active labor,
transition, onset of 2nd stage, and finally one at birth. I discuss how nature has planned it so the most comfortable period is the longest, how the most work gets done in the shortest period of time (which is visible to them) and then I move birth around showing variations in time. I've never liked the charts that show
approximate times because it sticks in their heads that that is how long labor should last.
Barbara

On Dec 6, 2007, at 12:23 AM, QuickTopic daily digest wrote:

> _________________________________________________________________
> To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/38/X/GUnveEpaNKg
> Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QT

---
Barbara Hotelling
barbara@hotelling.net
MSN, RNC, LCCE, CD(DONA)
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
2112 Bretton Drive
Rochester Hills, Michigan 48309
248.931.9189
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hello,
 
I have to say I do the same as Colette and we watch the Stages of Labor movie. Then when we come back from the movies we play a stages of labor game where I read labor scienrio and they guess which stage or phase mom is in and I have game prizes too. They seem to really get into the game. I also always tell them at the begining that there will be a game at the end and oh one more thing I made a print with with all the stages/phases headings so they can write notes down too.
So now that I look at all of this, I do a lot but they love all the activity:)
Can't wait to hear other peoples ideas too! Danielle O'Keefe,CD,CBE,LCEBaby Love Childbirth Services"Always Putting mother and baby first"www.babylovecs.comdanielle@babylovecs.com(530)-797-4176(916)-753-8591


> Date: Wed, 5 Dec 2007 21:17:59 +0000> Subject: Passion for Birth Childbirth Education Training Program> From: qtopic-38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> To: qtopic-subs@quicktopic.com> > --QT-------------------------------------------------------------> Reply by email or visit> http://www.quicktopic.com/38/H/GUnveEpaNKg/m92>; -------------------------------------------------------------- --> > Hi! Ok...this is what I have been doing. I go through the> "what it looks like, what it feels like and what you can do". I> have pictures of positions or things you can do for each stage. > So, I go through what each stage is and then we go through the> pictures and do the comfort techniques and possible breathing> techniques (this is more of a discussion...I would ask what they> think they could do during each stage,etc.). I also have> pictures of things that would be the same size as certain> dilation (ex.cheerio for 1cm) . I also do that wonderful game> that Teri did at the workshop with the balloon and the ping pong> ball to demonstrate what effacement & dilation are �D;> �D;> Looking forward to what others do for this!�D;> �D;> Colette �D;> �D;> �D;> �D;> --�D;> No virus found in this incoming message.�D;> Checked by AVG Free Edition.�D;> Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.16.13/1170 - Release> Date: 12/4/2007 10:52 AM�D;> _________________________________________________________________> To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/38/X/GUnveEpaNKg>; Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QTSTRIPMIME_JOINLINES

Hi! Ok...this is what I have been doing. I go through the "what it looks like, what it feels like and what you can do". I have pictures of positions or things you can do for each stage. So, I go through what each stage is and then we go through the pictures and do the comfort techniques and possible breathing techniques (this is more of a discussion...I would ask what they think they could do during each stage,etc.). I also have pictures of things that would be the same size as certain dilation (ex.cheerio for 1cm) . I also do that wonderful game that Teri did at the workshop with the balloon and the ping pong ball to demonstrate what effacement & dilation are �D;
�D;
Looking forward to what others do for this!�D;
�D;
Colette �D;
 �D;
 �D;
 �D;
--�D;
No virus found in this incoming message.�D;
Checked by AVG Free Edition.�D;
Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.16.13/1170 - Release Date: 12/4/2007 10:52 AM�D;
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hey, I am looking for an interactive way to teach the stages of labor. It's always such a blah subject because either we watch a video, or we read over/use posters. Anybody have some great ideas for me?

We're going to be moving to a new building for our classes. We'll be looking at new chairs... I've been told that the "Backjack chairs" are great.. Anyone out there have used these chairs or have any suggestions for comfortable chairs for moms... I'd like to try beanbag chairs too. Thanks Linda Rosetti LCCE for 25 yrs!

Hi Lucinda,
Cathy Holland has borrowed the next door neighbor's house. There are only 4 beds which are now taken. But there is a couch. If you would like to party with the others, for free, call Cathy at 313.822.8858 and reserve space immediately. Otherwise, you can stay at the Lake View Hills Hotel, which is 2 miles away.
Barbara

On Oct 5, 2007, at 4:26 AM, QuickTopic daily digest wrote:


---
Barbara Hotelling
barbara@hotelling.net
MSN, RNC, LCCE, CD(DONA)
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
2112 Bretton Drive
Rochester Hills, Michigan 48309
248.931.9189
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Any recommendations for where to stay in Lexington? Thanks!

Can I pick your brains? I'm trying to come up with role play scenarios for adolescent mothers & fathers to illustrate refusal skills. Can you give me some situations where teen parents might have to say "no"?

Hi Ladies! I was wondering who is planning on attending the Lamaze conference in Sept? I'm trying to figure out how to make it work that I can actually go, finacially if you know what I mean? LOL I'm interested in a roommate and would like to arrive Thursday morning. Anyone interested?

Jill Spear
Professional Doula Services
www.sistermoonwellwomancare.com
heathenmamaof5 is my online name :)

Thanks Shawna,
I haven't had time to work on it yet as I am the one designated to get it moving, but I am hoping this week sometime.

Hi Becky,
I didn't do this but it is an interesting way of organizing it. Let us know how it works out and if you think it flows well doing it that way.

Cheers, Shawna

Hi there,
Has anyone tried to have there course design follow the six Lamaze Care Practices? We are trying to get our course to flow a little better and were trying to decide how to break it up under the care practices.

Ack. I don't know that uploading that image will help you any. But that's what it looks like! Sorry you weren't able to email me...try again, and I'll get you the handout (without our logo at the bottom!). If you can't break through with nicole@bigbellybirth.com, try nici123@yahoo.com.

Nicole

Rebozo handout

Hi Nicole...tried emailing privately as well. I could REALLY use your hand out if you are still wanting to "share". I have class tonight...would come in handy.

Thanks so much!!
F.R.O.G.
Colette

Hi Colette,

I'd love to see more circumcision websites, too. The only one I have bookmarked is http://www.cirp.org/library/statistics/bollinger2003/ which is good for some stats.

I could never find any Rebozo pictures, either, aside from the ones that come in the book that comes with the video (that I borrowed). So I did some copyright infrigement (I'm sure), and copied off a few of my favorite moves with the Rebozo, and made my own handout. You're welcome to it if you'd like, just email me and I'll send it over (same goes for anyone reading this). My email is nicole@bigbellybirth.com Showing Rebozo moves in class has been a HUGE hit for us- ya don't need to be pregnant to appreciate it, and if you are, stand back...ahhhhhh. :)

Nicole

Hello everyone!! I have a couple HUGE favors to ask...1.) does anyone have any favorite sites for circumcision info/handouts? 2.)does anyone know of where I can obtain photos of rebozos in use during labor??? I demonstrated them the other night in class and people want some photos to hang on the hospital room walls. I feel like I've looked everywhere!

Thanks in advance!!
F.R.O.G.
Colette

A while back there was a blurb on the website that said something to the effect of, "What's with the logo?". Just wondering if anyone else saw this and remembers what it said. It wasn't the Lamaze logo. It was the PFB logo. There was a meaning for the symbol and I actually have not seen the logo on there since all the new changes to the website. I went to the Indianapolis seminar and it was so great! Though I was sleep deprived each day due to my commute and have never had so much coffee in my life, I am so glad I chose Passion for Birth as my route to Lamaze/CBE certification!

I just did this as a presentation yesterday at something we have locally called A Community Baby Shower. I was the only person presenting anything specifically to pregnant families. I had 25 people (standing-room only, lol) in there. I used some sind-ups, but also some random toys I found around my house. Things I added:
-Yoda from a Happy Meal: listen to you inner wisdom, use the "force" of gravity to get baby out, "Do or do not, there is no try," just for laughs, lol.
-a spinning top: stay on top of your labor. I introduced the 3 R's breifly
-a suitcase we have from one of our Chevron Cars: packing your bag for the hospital (obvious answer), but also, talking about the "emotional" baggage we bring with us (thanks, Teri!)
-a battery: to rest as often as you can, to recharge your battery and keep your energy level up
-wind-up teeth: to eat and drink during labor. This was funny, because a couple of women were VERY vocal about "eat before you go into the hospital because they won't let you eat once you get there." A few times they brought this up. I finally said, "Not all care practitioners feel this way -- you should talk to your practitioner and ask for information about this."
-mermaid: use water to help manage your labor (she's also topless, lol, so I said, "Once baby comes out, maybe you will want to be topless, too, for skin-on-skin contact")
-a baseball: use a birth ball

That's all I can think of right now. I was happy to see that cute, dancing robot is also available at Cost Plus, if any of you have one of those locally -- that was my most favorite/unique one I found :).

I purchased a bag of foil-wrapped chocolates that looked like pennies -- I told participants that I "pay" them for answering questions :).

It was a lot of fun.

Stacie,
Those are some awesome ideas! Great job!

I had an idea for a labor review or idea-pulling activity involving wind-up toys :). The kids and I went to a favorite toy store today and they had millions of wind-ups :).

Brain that hops: BRAIN
Sneakers that walk: walking
Frog that flips: demonstrates hands/knees positions, staying active
Fish: using water
Robot that dances: slow dancing, hip rotating (he actually did rotate at the hips, lol)
Bull that bucks: information to avoid any "bull" that might be out there; empowerment via informed consent, informed refusal to not be "bullied"
Ccrawling baby: remembering what it is all for; moving so your baby can move (rotate) during labor

There were so many! Those are only the ones I can remember! I didn't get any today -- I figured I would go back once I get paid by my next set of students to reward myself :).

Tip on how to get people to sit down for a seminar. She would ask several friends, 2 or 3, to come and sit through the seminar. People will see other people there and be curious but sometimes they don't want to be the first to sit down. She found that if she had people there she had more people join her friends.
Trish Stebbins

My partner and I had the opportunity to display at our local Babies R Us this weekend, and in doing so, we chatted with the manager about doing some seminars at their store, which they are totally open to, and excited about us doing so. I know attendance is a bit low (in my eyes) for their typical seminar, so I want to do one that would appeal to the pregnant woman BEFORE she is going to a CBE class (so like late 1st, 2nd trimester).

Anyone have any idea for a class that would draw in the 'crowds'? Heard of others that do a cool class that attracts participants?

Thanks!

Nicole

Hey Nicole,

Thanks for the suggestions. I've only had one birth. A dear friend of course but nothing since then. So I'm going to try these.

This was very helpful.

Princess


On 4/4/07, QT - Big Belly Nicole! <qtopic+38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote:
>
>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Welcome Kristin

Princess


On 4/11/07, QT - Kristin <qtopic+38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote: >
>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Welcome!!!!
 
Christy Shields, CLD
Assistant Director/GA Coordinator
Operation Special Delivery
_www.MothertheMother.com_ (http://www.motherthemother.com/)
_www.OperationSpecialDelivery.com_ (http://www.operationspecialdelivery.com/) _www.ColumbusBirthNetwork.googlepages.com_
(http://www.columbusbirthnetwork.googlepages.com/)




************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.

I just registered for the PfB program! Woo Hoo! I'm so excited!!!
I'm located in LaGrange, Georgia and am so excited to be on my way to offering some quality CBE in this town! :-)

Angela I am also coming to the D.C. seminar and understand about cutting cost. Have you considered staying at a hostel.There is one a couple blocks from Union Station. 202.737.2333 www.hihostels.com. about $33 a night. I hope this is helpful info.

GREETINGS!!! I'll be going to the seminar in DC in a couple of weeks. I'm trying to cut costs as much as possible for it. Is anyone going interested in splitting a room? The hotel I'm booking is the Best Western in Arlington by Regan airport. For Friday and Saturday nights, its $99/night on hotels.com. I'd like to possibly book Thursday night too, but I do have a friend in the area if whoever wants to split it only wants to book the two nights. I'm agreeable!

Another thing......I'm looking for a doula. I've found the name of one lady in my area but after trying several methods of contacting her, she wont call me back. I live in Salisbury MD and I'm due in September. Anyone know anyone???

Hi Shannon,

Here's how I 'got' my births...at the CBE class I observed the instructor allowed me to ask for the oppotunity to observe births (I offered to do anything from sitting quietly in the corner, to taking pictures, to writing the birth story, to providing labor support). I also recently went to a breastfeeding class, and the instructor was so excited that I'm a doula (now) that SHE announced my 'services'.

I also wrote a letter telling what I was doing (getting Lamaze certified) and explaining that I had to observe many births, and could do all the things I mentioned above. I gave that to my OB (who is quite supportive, but I'm sure you could work your way in with an unknown OB- just ask around for the most 'relaxed' in your area!), and he passed it out to the 'right' patients.

I ALSO contacted the nurse in charge of the medicare clinic, and offered labor support for 'her' patients.

And I agree with the pp- contacting a doula is a great idea, her clients already want more support there- and from what I've learned so far, the more the better!

I know when I spoke with the nurse manager at our local hospital I got absolutely nowhere. She said that to 'offer' me up would look like they were supporting me, and lord knows she can't have that! :) (we get along, really we do).

So that's how I've gotten my current 6 births...Hope that helps!

Nicole

Hi Shannon
Here's one suggestion contact a Doula in your area she might be able to help you. Look under dona or alace. I know they have a list of doula's maybe you will find one in your area good luck
Rachel Bohn

>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hello everyone My name is Shannon and I am just beginning this wonderful journey and am a few weeks away from my seminar in DC. I have a question though I am having difficulty getting three births under my belt. I have contacted the local hospital and have not had any luck with them. Any suggestions?

I think your idea Rachel of having the group start with an introduction exercise is very important. They need to get to know one another, build a little bit of trust and feel comfortable to speak out. I think this is necessary in any group learning situation - group dynamics are so very important to learning.

 In this situation I would probably try to adapt an exercise so that I wasn't asking them questions but they were asking me - for instance writing the questions on cards, passing them around the room and then have them read out the question - hoping that this would build some trust in speaking in the group. I would also make sure that the activities were 'safe' for the group - meaning that they don't have to share more than they want to, they are not asked questions that they won't know the answer to and if they do say something that needs to be challenged making sure it is addressed gently.

I think the reality is that sometimes you just have a quiet group - when this happens for me and I know I have done everything I can to build group safely and cohesiveness I try to readjust the learning so that they are doing reflection in their journals on questions or we are reinforcing the learning in other ways besides answering questions out loud. I actually find these groups to be some of the toughest to facilitate.

Hi ladies I love reading all your emails with great suggestions and questions, I am currently waiting to hear from teri on my course design, and currently observing a lamaze class, this class consist of four couples, the teacher is having a hard time breaking the ice with them. She ask a question and they all look at her, do they know the answer, or to embaresed to answer it, or do they really don't know. I have suggested to her that they do some getting to know each other excercise and maybe that would bring the class closer and more comfortable with each other. Any suggestions on how to get them to talk and answer the questions that are asked. I know I have a few and i have offered them to the instructor, just wondering what you all would do if your class sat there in silence. thanks for any input
Rachel Bohn

>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hello Ladies,
My name is Trish. I have been a Doula since 1987, DONA certified since 2004 and attended a PfB seminar in 2004. I travel with my husband's work, moving every 3 months, so working on this has been challenging to say the least. I am now in the Shelby, NC area. I am working on my course design and looking forward to a refresher PfB course in Topsail Beach, NC in May. I am so excited to have access to this site. I have enjoyed reading the posts and hope to return often. I look forward to learning from these posts.
Sincerely,
Trish
Labor of Love Doula Services

Thanks Shawna for the words of wisdom. You make lots of sense and I will try to implement the suggestions. Not too difficult to implement "hands on" stuff....that is my favorite!
Thanks again!!
F.R.O.G.
Colette
Lilypie Baby Days
>
>
> --
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> Version: 7.5.446 / Virus Database: 268.18.13/726 - Release Date: 3/18/2007
3:34 PM
>
>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hi Colette,
Not sure if you still need some ideas but I will give it a go. I warn you that I am basing this on educational experience but not evidence about what works with someone who may have a developmental delay or a special need in regards to learning. I would think it would depend on what their special need might be.

I think keeping it to one hour is a good idea. I would find out if they have a preferred learning style (visual, auditory, kinesthetic (doing) etc.) and then really try to present things in this way. I would also avoid jargon, methaphors and instead would use 'real' examples. I think it would also be important to do a lot of cycling back and reinforcement of ideas.

Another suggestion is to involve them in the learning as much as possible - this is one of the great gifts of private classes that you are able to do this to even a greater extent than in a group class. They probably have a good idea what they want to learn so perhaps you can follow their lead.

Good luck and enjoy. What a great learning experience for you and one that is sure to inform how you teach future particpants of any background.

Teri,

You're right. Thanks for the heads up. Sorry you had to set the example. LOL

On 3/19/07, QT - Teri Shilling <qtopic+38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote: >
>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

This reminded me of a similar exercise I did many years ago - I stored my props in a friend's office close to the room I taught in. I had gone looking for something cheap to make the bags out of and put them in these nice cloth bags! Well I decided to use rabbit pellet feed as something concetrated and cheap. Well about six months after creating them, there were hundreds of moths flying around in her office! I had no idea that there were potentially bugs in the rabbit food, just waiting to hatch! Lesson learned - watch what you use for visual aids. Cheap is not always the only criteria! Sterile is also useful for some things! Have fun while you create teaching aids!!

Hey Shawna,

I observed an CBE who used beans placed into quart and gallon sized Ziploc bags. Each bag of course represented the mother's weight distribution. She had the class to guess how much the breast, placenta, blood, etc weighed and then gave them the estimated figure. During the activity she would place each bean bag into a back pack. After the exercise, she asked for a volunteer to place the back pack on (in front of course). It tried it out. It was quite heavy. The class of course laughed when the father tried to carry the back pack. I thought it was a good activity and a cheap idea.

On 3/13/07, QT - Shawna <qtopic+38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote: >
>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hi everyone! Ok...just got off the phone w/ a person who wants me to teach a private session for them (they had attended the class at the hospital and didn't understand a thing the nurse was saying). Some people from different programs recommended me (<blush>. This couple is limited in mental functioning. So, my question...any ideas how to make this meaningful and understandable for this couple? Their sessions will only be for 1 hour at a time as I am sure that more than that will be too much.

I am excited yet a bit terrified at the same time. I would begin their sessions next week.

Thanks in advance!!
F.R.O.G.
Colette

Hey Liz! The topic of birth memories on the Lamaze list does refer to how it's a day (day/night or day/night/day for some!) that is like no other. And to review what the evidence says that she will remember and how it is important to protect that memory. However I think it would be fine if you are comfortable to introduce the concept of what do babies remember/feel from the experience.....

Edited by author 03-13-2007 08:58 PM
With the Importance of Birth Memories, we are talking about the parents, right? Sorry, years of Prenatal Pyschology and I can't help but think the infant's memories. I just need to know that I am on the right track.


Stacie - I am teaching in Amador County. Good luck on your class! Isn't it fun preparing? It is difficult (never enough time), but way better than any job I have had!

We do a sympathy belly exercise Teri like you are describing. We get the dads to take turns wearing it for at least 45 minutes of the class. It serves a few purposes: 1. allows us to talk about physiological changes in pregnancy, we encourage couples communication because dad gives feedback to mom about 'being pregnant' and it segues into a discussion about nutrition and 'healthy' weight gain for pregnant moms. When the dads take turns putting on the apron we redistribute the weight differently so that we show that every woman gains weight differently and that the important thing to focus on is eating healthy and listening to her body's needs.

The first dad wears the belly during our first week of class and it is usually one of the more outgoig dads. This breaks the ice and sets the light tone for the classes that we want.

I would love to hear other activities that people use that they find really effective.

Shawna did a great job of answering the question! Combining topics is very effective! Congrats on a creative teaching aid - send us a pic! I will post it on the blog! I have also thought about using an apron and actually having pockets to fill with symbols of all the extra weight of pregnancy - a large pocket for a water jug symbolic of the weight from amniotic fluid, a smaller water bottle for increase in blood volume, a BIG pocket for the baby, a ziploc/felt bag with those little stones for fish tanks for the weight of the placenta, the uterus and the increased weight for larger breasts....it would all add up to 20 - 25 pounds. So far I have the apron and there's just not enough hours in the day to actually create it!
Here's to creating teaching strategies that are "two-fers" - two topics in the time of one!!

I love "heart and hands," but you are right, Christy, it is not super technical. I also have a copy of "Family-centered maternity care," by Celeste Phillips, and that has a lot of great info in it. teri, remember (maybe you don't) I kept telling rebecca, "Why does that name sound familiar?" when she mentioned her aunt? Well, I came home to find FCMC on my shelf, lol. Both books have a lot of good pictures.

Liz, where will you be teaching? I am gearing up for classes starting the 27th of this month. I am in a smaller venue, so I think limiting it to 6 couples is a good idea in my case. I think I have the first class hammered out :).

I had a great idea to do for anatomy of pregnancy/normal physical changes: My local educational store sells these blank forms like paper doll outlines, except they are big, like 11x14ish. I am labeling to with various things like digestive tract, urinary tract, heart and blood flow, skin, etc. Before our break, I will have each person (mother and partner as individuals) take an outline. After the break, I will ask for their ideas about the topic, and then cover what might be missed. I will also use, at the tail end of this activity, two more forms that I have, to discuss sexuality and emotional changes -- two that might be a little harder for people to openly discuss or bring up. I will let you know how it goes! I originally bought these forms to pass out and have moms write on their "bodies" where they like to be touched/how they like to be touched.

Hi Liz,
I am sure Teri will answer your question but I just wanted to jump in and say I am pretty sure the answer is yes. Overlapping topics in activities is really the only way to fit all the topics in and more importantly I think it builds more comprehensive learning as well because most of the topics are connected anyways. Overlapping topics also allows you to cycle back into the topic later in the series thus reinforcing the learning. This is one of the key principles of adult learning.

Sounds like you are well on your way and I love your activity idea!

Thanks Teri!

I am trying to sqeeze so much in :) that every minute counts! I just want to show so much! lol

So about an hour worth of breaks, which gives me 11 hours of teaching.
You were so very right when you said we would not be able to do every activity we want. I will just have to choose the most fun ones, of course that is not easy to decide either!

I was also wondering if it is okay to have activities that interlap. For example: For normal physiologic changes in pregnancy, and anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, I have these felt aprons (covers the belly) and felt organs (very basic). As I talk about specific organs and changes everyone applies their "organ" to their apron. Hopefully it will go over well, it has been a hit with my household!lol (three grown men and anyone who happens to be here are my testers) I also have the growing uterus posters to help illustrate. So essentially I can cover both topics in one activity, is that ok to use in my course design; or should I think if an additional on as well.

Oh and thank you for the great idea about the cookies, I will be doing that for sure!

Thanks again!

Great question - we were just talking about this book at the last seminar I did - people liked it. I have sent away for a review copy because I have a very old edition on my shelf - but it looks good. I think it's fine to use that instead of another midwifery/obstetrical nurse text book. As the web is easier and easier to search for answers to unique or "stumper" questions, I think having an easy to read book like Hearts and Hands would be a fine substitution!

Midwifery Text

I have a question about which one to get. I keep hearing great things about Heart and Hands (Elizabeth Davis...I think). I have heard wonderful things about it but I've also heard it is less technical than others. For those that have read it, will this book provide the kind of information I should be looking for or do I need to go with one that is more technical?

Liz - yes, break time is included in the 12 hours. For example if you are teaching a class 7 - 9 pm - you should include a 5 - 10 minute break. Babies are sitting on bladders and it just helps to let people move and socialize! You can use break time as an educational time as well - if you provide snacks, maybe have one night high in calcium, another high in fiber! Linda Smith has a great activity where you buy the ugliest store bought cookies you can find and make a yum-yum homemade batch. At the end of the break, see which more people ate and make the comparison - "which would their babies prefer - homemade (breastmilk) or store bought (formula). You can also quotes on the table or a generic question to talk about....or leave it open! So back to your question, figure in break times - every hour or hour and half!

Edited by author 03-12-2007 03:39 PM
Hi Everyone!
I am working on my course design, and I was wondering if breaktime is included in the 12 hours. If anyone knows it would be a great help!

I am very excited because I am one week from my first class beginning..YAY!

Thank you for your help!
Liz

Welcome Noelene,
Glad you found this board. PfB is just the right start. Hope you can stop by often.

Hello Noelene! Nice to "meet you". How exciting for you!!! This is sure to be such a rewarding journey for you. PfB is sure to help you set your footing and steer you in the right direction!

Enjoy!
F.R.O.G.
Colette Baran
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8:12 AM
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< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hello everyone! I just recently applied for the PfB Lamaze Educator Training Program and am awaiting my Lamaze Study Guide. I just wanted to introduce myself to you ladies as I am interested in talking with other childbirth educators online. I live in NJ and am sooo excited to get started with this journey.

Noelene

Thanks Teri - I know you are busy so I appreciate you taking the time to look into this. The price between a student and non-student is huge! It almost makes me want to wait to take the exam until October but that would be a silly reason :-)

Shawna

Edited by author 03-01-2007 04:32 AM
Here are the prices for the conference registration at Phoenix....(only included member as the difference is greater than buying a membership $50 for students) The formatting may mess up but hopefully you can figure it out.
Member Early* After July 27
Full Conference $315 $425
Pre-Conference Seminar/Full Conference $555 $665

Student Early* After July 27
Full Conference $205 $255

Hope I see you all there!
Teri

Sorry - still unpacking...from the seminar in Sacramento and the rest of our house!! The conference brochure is still in the design phase....and I will send an email to the Lamaze staff to get the conference prices. (Haven't found that box with that file yet!) However they have a great student rate - and you will qualify if you haven't written the exam yet. So I promise to post the prices tomorrow!
In the meantime - I am back to the boxes!

Shawna, I looked, too, and I didn't see that info, only info for vendors! Odd.

Stacie - glad you enjoyed your workshop so much. I did check the lamaze site and there was no fee posted that I could find.

I just got back from my seminar, and I loved it! We had a great time, and I met such wonderful women. I learned a lot, I am so motivated to finish my course design, and Teri, I slept very well lastnight! I spent the last year just spinning wheels without direction; now I can see what I need to do to get everything to come together. Thank you for your facilitation :).

Shawna, I imagine Lamaze's site might have that info -- have you checked there yet?

Hi,
Does anyone know what the fee is for the Lamaze Conference in Phoenix in September? Is anyone here planning on attending. I am thinking about it and really want to do it as I have family there as well. My daughter begins Junior Kindergarten that week though so I am feeling extremely torn.

Knowing the cost would help me decide if it is even an option! Thanks.

Teri - hope you are feeling better.

Cheers,
Shawna

Hey Teri,

Sorry to hear that you haven't been feeling well, but I'm happy to know that you are on the road to recovery. Well take care of yourself and be sure to be a good patient. ;0)


On 2/14/07, QT - Teri <qtopic+38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote: >
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< replied-to message removed by QT >

I'm back! Sorry I have been quiet on the discussion board as my life has been a bit chaotic. We moved from Missouri to Washington and in the middle of that my gall bladder decided enough is enough and I was so sick, ended up having surgery last week and I finally almost feel back to normal. So my house is full of boxes, still searching for the coffee pot and other essential things! I am not suppose to lift much for a little while more and my office is nothing but boxes! I don't mean to whine! I appreciate the patience people have shared who are waiting for the graded course designs etc. I have 300+ emails to answer and my phone message is full. So I should say I am almost back!

with a passion for birth,
Teri

Hi,
In regards to your question Teri about how do we ensure that the classes we teach are what people want or need I think it is about us reaching out and showing people that we care by asking questions.. When we do have people who register for our classes (yay, for that) asking them a couple of questions about why they are taking the course, what they hope to get from it etc. Than following that up with how we tweak our course design to fit their needs and finally doing evaluations as we go and at the end to be sure we are meeting their needs.

Another idea if one has access to pregnant moms or want to be pregant women is to do a needs assessment that basically asks the questions of what someone would want out of a childbirth education series.

We are fortunate in that our classes our small so we have the opportunity usually to speak with them on the phone prior to the class to get to know them. That way we have 'broken the ice' prior to our first class and we have started to build a relationship.

I agree you certainly came to the right place. Welcome! Check out the site and ask questions. I think we all like to get discussions going.

I believe you are in the right place!! Lamaze:Passion for Birth is all of that and more. I am still in the process of certification but the standards and the training are top notch. Take some time to read through the Passion for Birth website and the Lamaze site as well and you'll get a very good understanding of the mission of both. From what you have already said it sounds like a perfect match for what you are looking for. Feel free to ask more questions...I am always happy to "discuss"
 
Christy Shields, CLD
Assistant Director/GA Coordinator
Operation Special Delivery
_www.MothertheMother.com_ (http://www.motherthemother.com/)
_www.OperationSpecialDelivery.com_ (http://www.operationspecialdelivery.com/) _www.ColumbusBirthNetwork.googlepages.com_
(http://www.columbusbirthnetwork.googlepages.com/)

I am exploring this site - and the blog - and hoping to begin a conversation with you all.... I am located just outside of DC, and I have had three successful natural births (the first was "Bradley" the second (& third - twins!) were so fast I don't think there was a method involved!! Five years ago after not enjoying my birthing instructor at all, I decided I cold do much better! I have taken these five years and am finally ready to move forward. At first I thought for sure I wanted to be a Bradley instructor, but now I think I want to help women to find the strength and courage and comfort for the birth of their choice. I would like to work individually with couples to help them "design" the ideal pregnancy and birth experience.

I would also very much like to be a breastfeeding assistant/consultant/support person....

Anyway.... I would really like to talk to any or all of you about what path you have chosen, your experiences with certification and then with teaching.... anything that can help me to choose the "right" certification and get onto the "right" path for me and my business.....

thank you!
timoney

Ingebora,Welcome, so glad you have a computer and Internet! Glad that you found us. Yes, so do put strange posts on that should not be in the forums. If they do not get deleted, it is just best to ignore them. Many try to sell things ont he forums, from pills to themselves! But just bypass them. Tell us about yourself.

Hello world! I'm from Latvia, I now have a computer and Internet! It's so interesting here! But on some forums I see strange posts, they offer to buy some pills or something and they look very stupid. It is robots posting? I thought moderators should delete such posts. Maybe somebody will explain me what's going on? But at all it is very interesting to speak to all you people!
Kisses! :)

In the case of the doctor, I didn't want to appear like I was pushing or controlling the clients' decisions. I was polite, and i tried to just blend in. You have to understand, I had clients the day before who had a cesarean with him, and he ripped the partner a new one when she was talking to mom before things were even starting -- she was standing up, looking into her partner's eyes, and he siad, "there's a seat for you there." She thought he was being polite, and she said, yes, thanks. "You are a guest in this OR -- you need to take a seat or you will be removed." Yikes! So we had a heads-up.

What helped in this situation was the nurse. She was the perfect middle-person. She knew how to be chummy with the doc, while detesting his behavior. She eve told a funny joke: She said they had those Uncrustable sandwishes in the lounge. A doctor put one in the toaster, and it proceeded to become a big, stinky, burning mess. He unplygged it, and started poking at it with a fork and knife. It still wasn't budging. A midwife came over, took the toaster, and flipped it upside down. it came right out. She said, "That's the difference between doctors and midwives: doctors poke and prod and pull babies out -- we let them fall right out."

I didn't want to come up on his radar, as I had seen him the day before. I just played it cool. The nurse was the one who gave me the space to advocate for my clients. Very rarely have I had a nurse who didn't like me as a doula. There is one who is very uncomfortable with normal birth, though. I can joke with her, though, and say things like, "J, you know me! If we need anything, we will call," batting eyelashes, making sweet.

When I get a class where moms are turned off, I often get quieter, not louder. I recently was in a breastfeeding class where no.one.was.articipating. before walking out my door, I grabbed a handful of marbles. When I got there, and things were dead (the CB instructor forewarned me this was a quiet class), i said, "oh, hey, I have marbles in my pocket. Any ideas why I brought marbles with me?" no one was responding, so I kept going. "Maybe to get down on the floor here and shoot a game of marbles? Was it to stick in the tea kettle, so I know when my water's boiling so my tea kettle doesn't burn up? how about if we throw them on the wood floor and watch these pregnant mamas try to keep their balance?" No one offered answers, but everyone was smiling. This was a natural lead-in to newborn stomach size, etc.

I try to get interactive and pull people in when the class isn't too interested. Sometimes i will have lifesavers in my pocket, and I pass them around and tell everyone to suck on them, not to bite them. In a few minutes, we go back to the Lifesavers and compare them to cervixes, etc.

I must admit the WIC crowd is the hardest. Sometimes it just comes down to asking about their babies, if they are havin any problems, why they chose to breastfeed, etc. Often there is a language barrier. i am still working on that!

Stacie

HA! I just sent the previous message from the board and forgot to add my own name! nice

Christy

I have a request : )

I have signed up to get new messages from this board in my email (I'd have to miss anything!) but the name of the poster doesn't come through the email unless it is in the body of the message. If you reply through your email your signature will show up, assuming you have a signature set up, but for us emailers to see your name can you add it in your message? I have retyped this three times trying to keep it from sounding bossy or snotty so if it doesn't make sense I apologize!

No, it wasn't lengthy. It was quite an interesting story. So, Stacie, as a doula, how did you handle the situation with the anesthesiologist? And as an educator, how do you deal with those people in your classes who "have" to attend?

On 1/28/07, QT - Stacie <qtopic+38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote: >
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< replied-to message removed by QT >

I found my way here, and I am so excited to finally attend a seminar next month! Yay!

This reminds me of Barbara Coloroso's book, "Kids are Worth It!" She talks about getting kids to do the right thing because they want to, not because they are getting rewarded with a sticker, treat, etc. It's the same thing here.

I am a doula, and I had clients in December I just loved. The dad was rather gruff. During our first meeting, we talked. They had taken a hypnotherapy class for birthing, and also a more free-form series of classes loosely based on Birthing from Within. That particular teacher is a very free spirit. During the first class, she said, "I don't have a set outline of what I am going to teach you. I want you guys to tell me what you want to learn." This dad was totally turned off. "How was I supposed to know what I needed to know when I didn't even know anything?" They loved the supplemtation I provided. In fact, they not only met my fee, they exceeded it.

Interestingly enough, they also had an experience with an anesthesiologist. Mom wanted an epidural at 6 centimeters. Originally she did not want any medications, but she was having a hard time coping, and she was afraid once transition hit, she would really lose it. I asured her she was in transition already, and there wasn't anything magical about 7 centimters versus 6. It took 45 minutes for the doc to get there. I asked if she wanted to be checked before getting an epidural. She said yes. She was checked and found to be an 8! She said she didn't ant the epi anymore.

The anesthesiologist would not take the nurse's "She changed her mind," for an answer, and he barged right into the bathroom where mom was laboring on the toilet. He told her it was fine if she changed her mind, but he came from his home, inturrupted his evening with his family, and he would not come back if she decided later she needed the epi. He was very passive aggressive about the whole thing. He was not respectful at all of her sitting on the toilet and dealing with contractions. It was awful to witness.

They asked for alone time to talk it over. They said they were thinking about it, but the way he was pushing it and being very rude, they said no way. While they were talking about it, she started to feel pushy. I told the nurse, and then the anesthesiologist said, louder than needed, "I GUESS THAT'S A NO ON THE EPIDURAL?" The nurse said, "yep, I guess so!" She was happy :). Baby was born 45 minutes later.

Digression. The content has to be interesting, the audience has to feel the info applies to them, and they have to feel the instructor cares about them. I do understand you get a totally different audience when they "have" to be there, like at WIC. I have lead many group breastfeeding meetings and often the moms just sit there, with no interaction, waiting to get their vouchers. I understand that. It just makes it harder for you to feel no one really cares about what you are doing, or what you prepared.

Lengthy, anyone? Tee, hee.

I too believe that it's all about the passion in your heart about the job you are doing and people can pick up on that attitude. It would be considered an insult if the only reason why people attended my classes is b/c of some type of gift that I'm offering. As Teri said, their minds wouldn't be there b/c all they are thinking about is "sailing". What we should be offering is interactive teaching and birthing knowledge. I feel that the best gift we can give them is the foundation to achieving a birth thier way. Then all of the other "treats" are just special extras; basically our way of saying thanks for coming and see ya next week. If the training is fun, interactive, and appealing then that should be enough for them to return especially if your HEART is in it. Just my two cents. ;0)

On 1/25/07, QT - Becky <qtopic+38-GUnveEpaNKg@quicktopic.com> wrote: >
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< replied-to message removed by QT >

I agree Teri. I have found that it's not necessarily incentives that keep people coming back to the classes, but that they are having fun and getting informed at the same time. My classes have been full 10-12 couples. I try and mix it up a bit, handing out little gifts to the winners or losers of a game. In Nov. I crocheted each couple Christmas stockings and put chocolate kisses inside. Adding a personal touch to your classes is what keeps people coming. The little extra's you might be able to do is just icing on the cake. Showing that you truly care about them and their labor and birth, really means alot.

very well said!!
 
Christy Shields, CLD
Assistant Director/GA Coordinator
Operation Special Delivery
_www.MothertheMother.com_ (http://www.motherthemother.com/)
_www.OperationSpecialDelivery.com_ (http://www.operationspecialdelivery.com/)

I have been lucky enough to work with people similar to what Colette described. Yes some programs do offer incentives to get people to keep coming. But I have found that if people are getting what they need from a course they will come back (as long as transportation challenges have been dealt with.)
I love the quote that Pat Predmore shared with me "Before people care what you know, they need to know you care." (or a close version)
I think when you teach from your heart and involve the learners, they become vested and will keep coming.
Now I have nothing against raffles, gifts, treats and feeding people - people appreciate that - no matter what economic status they have! (just look at those bags the movie stars get at oscar time!) But they should be the frosting, not a bribe to make people come!
I remember a long time ago, there was one of those time share property talks that gave you a free trip on a sail boat if you listened to their presentation. I wanted to sail! My body sat through the program but my mind was not there, I was just doing the time to get the ticket. We don't want to develop programs that are dependent on the offer of diapers or car seats to get bodies there. We want dynamic, awesome programs with a lot of positive buzz that gets the bodies and MINDS there! (and still provide the diapers and car seats as frosting because they are needed and darn expensive!)
And that brings up another topic for another day...how do we insure that the programs we offer address what people we are trying attract want/need!

One thing I have heard about keeping people coming to class is to offer things on the last day...maybe freebies or donated things. One idea I remember hearing at my training was to give out tickets when people participate or answer questions right etc and then do a drawing on the last day. Maybe you can put together a basket or two of free samples and put it on display throughout the class.
 
 
 
Christy Shields, CLD
Assistant Director/GA Coordinator
Operation Special Delivery
_www.MothertheMother.com_ (http://www.motherthemother.com/)
_www.OperationSpecialDelivery.com_ (http://www.operationspecialdelivery.com/)

Hi everyone!!! I am so excited about this board! Now I feel I have another avenue to bounce ideas off of and get some perspective.

So...I'll jump right in here. I took the October 06' seminar in Canada (LOVED IT!!). I am starting up a class (thanks to WIC...my hospital teaching position has been taken over by the nurses who believe that only nurses should teach this class.) and am having some difficulty with some areas.
1.) How do you walk the line of providing info. and still maintain a good working relationship with the staff (docs, nurses, etc.). These docs/nurses are anti-VBAC, induction happy, etc. I need to have a good relationship with them as I work with these nurses and docs with my job as a lactation counselor (my IBCLC mentor has worked so hard obtaining this relationship...I would hate to do anything to disrupt that)

2.)How do you get people to buy into going to a class for 6 or so sessions. The population that I will be advertising to (WIC...many of which are lower income, young moms) is one that we find in our area just don't go to the classes because of the length of time they need to invest. We find it is difficult getting them to come to the breastfeeding class which is one 1 hour long class.

Any input would be GREAT! I am a tad discouraged with my area hospital...they are moving in great directions in way of breastfeeding support, but when I had the VBAC conversation w/ a doc and nurse it really blew me away.

Anyway...thanks for any ideas!!

Looking forward to "meeting" everyone and chatting!

F.R.O.G.
Colette

I'm excited for the new discussion board. I will definitely be a frequent visitor. I enjoyed the PfB seminar that I atteneded in Birmingham, AL. Teri truly inspired me. So let's get the ball rolling, ladies

welcome aboard! I can't wait for this to take off!!
 
Christy Shields, CLD
Assistant Director/GA Coordinator
Operation Special Delivery
_www.MothertheMother.com_ (http://www.motherthemother.com/)
_www.OperationSpecialDelivery.com_ (http://www.operationspecialdelivery.com/)

I just found this discussion board, and I am very excited! I just taught my first Childbirth preparation class this weekend and am looking for someone to bounce some ideas off of. I really look forward to learning more about teaching classes, empowering women, and educating pregnant women and their partners. I'll check back again soon!

Hi, i am a older Lamaze educator and we have redone our classes to have less emphasis on the breathing techniques. Our evaluations are coming back with these comments: "This class is no more than a childbirth class with games, I want more breathing practice". Now we know that is not the feeling of the entire class.Any ideas on how we can accomodate the persons that want more relaxation and breathing with those that do not want it in the course of the 12 hrs of class? My second area is resocializing the nurses. We have left the Lamaze book up on the floor and have 5 new certified people and I am wondering if it has made any change in the direction of utilizing the Lamaze Philosophy. Our classes are full and seem to be going well but I see a big difference in what is taught in the class and what is carried out on the labor unit. It would be nice to see more of a merging of the two philosophies. Good luck in your new move. Where are you traveling to next, Teri?

Well, I guess I started a discussion! Christy, those are the type's of questions I specifically tell all of my CBE classes to ask. I always say be specific in your wants and needs and also make the care provider accountable for what they might or might not be telling you. Being an informed consumer is very important in our society right now, no matter what you are being the consumer of. When I go over birth plans etc either in my classes or when we have parents come in to go over theirs at our hospital, I encourage them to ask questions. Not only of their docs/midwife etc, but also of the nursing staff. If they have some questions that might take up more time than a normal visit, they need to make sure their doc is scheduled for a little more time or actually set up a time where they can discuss their concerns. Most docs won't refuse, they might not like it, but still won't refuse.
I think our job, as CBE, nurses, Doula's, Midwives, WOMEN!, is to get the word out that if we are really listening to our bodies, it will do the work for us. Birth is a beautiful gift from God and we need to treasure it as we do any gift from someone we love.

I've attended a few births now as a doula and I have run across this same thing! It is so exciting when the mom or dad asks the right questions but so deflating when the doctor brushes it aside with the "everything will be ok" answer. I've since decided that in addition to concentrating on informed consent (with doula clients and future cbe students) I would like to incorporate encouraging them to ask "how will this effect my ability to deliver my baby unmedicated." Or another avenue might be encouraging them to ask "what are the risks" as well as "what are the benefits of NOT doing it" in hopes that they might get a more detailed answer. How do you encourage them to create a dialogue with their care professionals vs short question/answer sessions?

BTW>>>I Love changes/upgrades!

Becky - thanks for being brave and posting first! What a relief to get the discussion started! What you have highlighted is why our work is so important but so frustating! Most of us would love to change the whole world of birth in a wink of an eye but your post shares the importance of impacting one birth at a time. It also shows how there needs to be a multi-prong approach to change - what is taught in classes, who is providing care one on one and who is making decisions regarding the care. Of course I wish my magic wand would work to make sure girls grow up trusting their bodies, every pregnant and laboring woman would have a dynamic support team, that hospitals would staff one on one care and value in-services on labor support as much as medical interventions and that care providers would offer a continum of skills - midwives referring to obstetricians when either the pregnancy or the labor requires a different level of care. But in fact where most of us have the highest impact is with those who are in our classes or whose births we are attending.

I could go on and on but the movers have told us our estimated weight is over the allotted amount and I have cases and cases of books to ship! It doesn't pay to be a birth book junkie!

Ok, I will be the first to post. I am so excited for you Teri and your move. Also for the changes to Passion for Birth! I love discussion boards. I have been frequenting quite a few boards on birth options, labor and delivery and so forth. The big discussion of course is how do we get the importance of "Normal, natural birth" out there when the main stream media, most of the medical profession and some of our friends, go against it? As a nurse and LCCE I feel torn most of the time. I give all the information, all the options that are needed to make an informed decision regarding labor and birth. But it still seems like there are so many woman that get to a certain point and they want it over with, almost at any cost. Meaning, they know the risks of induction leading to c/section etc etc, but they do not care or feel like they can not say NO to their care provider. Last night is a good example. I had a mom come in saying she had been contracting for a few hours, lost her mucous plug etc. I put her on the monitor and checked her, she was a 3 and contracting well. So we admitted her as her first delivery went fast and she lived a ways from our hospital. I checked her birth plan and she had nothing marked for pain control, comfort measures etc. I asked and she said I want to do this natural. I said great, these are the things we can do to get you through this one contraction at a time. I also reminded her that this was her birth and she made the decisions. I took her off the monitor, got her up walking, rocking in the chair and sitting on the birth ball. All things she had not done with her first. The doc came around and said, well let's break your water. I was so not happy about that. Why? the patient asked. Well, it's proven it can spead up delivery by about 2 hours. Really? Her husband said, well are there risks. No not really. The patient looked at me then at the doc and said ok. She broke it and then said, we'll get you an epidural and get you comfortable. The patient looked at me again and I just gave her a look. She said to the doc, no I don't think so, I want to do this as natural as possible and Becky has given me some great options, so right now I am fine. I was so glad. The doc, of course said ok, but when you change your mind let the nurse know. I left shortly after as my shift was over, but I get so frustrated. How do we really get the importance of Normal Natural birth out there? When we have so much opposition?

The move is under way. Passion for Birth is relocating to the northwest -to Mt. Vernon, Washington. This means I will be out of touch as we finish the packing and make the drive across - we are hoping there is a break in these winter snowstorms! I will post more to the discussion boards once I get settled in!

Edited by author 01-19-2007 08:18 AM
Wonder what I have deleted as list administrator? The first was my intro that I re-wrote - the other was a spam ad.....let's start some good discussion!!

I am so excited about this discussion board. I hope that you will feel comfortable posting any questions you have! Passion for Birth is on a mission to stomp out boring childbirth classes and hope we further that mission by offering this discussion board. Share teaching ideas, resources and tools!