4 Reasons to Have an Unmedicated Birth

As labor approaches, Annie has put together her birth plan.  One of the items that raises the most eyebrows is her decision to have an unmedicated birth.  Many people can't fathom why anyone would want to give birth without an epidural.

Here are 4 reasons for choosing an unmedicated birth from our perspective.

1. The Natural Way - We went to a class to help us better learn about unmedicated delivery. We both agreed that one of the most meaningful things we learned was the natural release of hormones: Ocytocin, Endorphins, and Adrenaline.  The body works its magic during labor by releasing these hormones at the right time to help the mother deliver the baby.  This release of hormones works as a natural cycle and medication often inhibits the brain from releasing them. If the mother chooses an unmedicated birth, it is typically to experience the pain and pleasure that these hormones create and avoid the cycle of interventions that often ensues with an epidural.
   
2. The Health of the Baby - We also worry about the impact that interventions have on the baby.  Most obstetricians agree that the methods are safe, however, we're concerned with the stress that our little girl may experience and the impact that it will make on her entrance into the world.  Pitocin has been shown to increase the strength and frequency of the contractions.  Pitocin also slows the release of hormores If it is possible to avoid using this labor-inducing drug, and thus reduce the added stress on our newborn, we're for it.
   
3. Experience the Birth - Annie has said that its not necessarily about experiencing the birth, but experiencing the ultimate natural high that comes from the hormones and accomplishing something so challenging.  She's heard from other mothers who have experienced this and the way they light up while telling their stories is something Annie wants.  I absolutely love that she has such conviction about what she wants.  She wants to be present in the moment and truly experience the highs and lows of this life-altering event.
   
4. Avoid a Catheter - You want to stick that where?  This probably isn't a big deal but it matters. Annie wants the opportunity to be able to get up and move around.  The epidural significantly restricts this and requires a catheter.  

What it really awesome about this is that women today are empowered to make choices they believe in.  Whether medicated or not, the fact that women have options available and can make their own choices is wonderful.

Have Any Dad Advice to help a first time dad through labor and delivery?  Leave a comment below or find me on Twitter @justchilldad

Shots for New Dads

The other day I called the doctor to schedule my shots.  Until Annie's 28th week appointment, I had no idea that it was highly recommended that dads should get the TDAP vaccine and a flu shot.  

Fast forward to week 35 and I scheduled the appointment.  The touch screen kiosk to register was new...super fancy.  The nurse called me back and told me that I didn't need the TDAP shot. Apparently, when you send a 1/2 inch drill bit into your thumb, the ensuing Tetanus Shot is doing much more than saving you from lockjaw.  That's a story for a different day, but it turned out to be a mistake that had a long-term benefit. TDAP vaccinates you against Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis and helps protect your newborn from contracting these diseases from you.  Definitely a good thing

I probably should have called home or did a simple Google Search to find the CDC's website to find out information on TDAP.  If you happen to stumble across this page using an organic search, I hope it saves you the judgmental look from a health professional that screamed, "How did you not know that?!?"  

Do you have any Chill Dad Advice to offer?  Tweet us or post a comment below.