Classes

We had our first "Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Newborn Care" class last night. The 7-wk class actually covers more than just "hee-hee-hoooo". For example, last night we discussed a woman's anatomy, what is going on with our bodies and baby, and some tips and techniques for relieving pregnancy aches and pains.

The instructor is a certified doula and the class is taught through Overlake Hospital. The class size is bigger than I expected--about 15-20 couples, all due around May. We also have a "reunion" once all the babies are born.

It was comforting to hear other women talk about how pregnancy has affected their bodies in similar ways as me, even weird ones like changes to our hair and fingernails. I think it was also good for Phil to hear some other dads with similar questions and concerns ("what can I do?!!"/"what is happening to my wife?!")! :)

Some of the great takeaways I got from the class were: to alleviate heartburn, chew gum (but not peppermint) after eating a meal - the 'base' in saliva neutralizes acid; eat a banana in the evening to help with midnight leg and foot muscle cramps; and different exercises, sitting positions, and stretches I can do to help with back pain.

I tried to sit at my desk in one of the positions the instructor recommended today for a little while (chair turned around, straddling the back of the chair) but it didn't seem to help. By about 3pm, my lower back is really killing me. I will see a physical therapist on Friday to see if there are other stretches, exercises, and postures that could help. I may also get another maternity massage but insurance doesn't cover that so we'll have to see.

On the 4th week of class, we get to tour the hospital. I'm looking forward to that.