An Unexpected Birth

Thinking ahead

Most parents enter pregnancy with certain expectations---based on what your health care provider, friends, and family have told you, what you read, or your previous experiences with birth.

Boy? Girl?
Sometimes these expectations take a different turn.  For instance, you may have a boy instead of the girl you always thought you would have; or having a cesarean instead of a vaginal birth. All of a sudden, your "fantasies" or dreams you expected have changed into a new reality.

Predicting labor
Often, expectant parents enter labor thinking that it will be like the "text book labor" they learned about in class.  Remember, no one can predict what your labor will be like or how long it will be!  The reality, in the United States, is between 1/4 and 1/3 of all deliveries are cesarean---an increase of almost 6% from 1999 to 2001. This increase was influenced by several factors.
u In 1999, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) changed their recommended for practice.  Changing their guideline from stating that a surgeon "be readily available" when a mother, with a history of cesarean birth, was in labor, to: "a physician immediately be available throughout active labor". 
u There is an increased number of multiple births. For instance, since 1980, the twin birth rate has increased by 53% from 18.9.  Nationally, the multiple birth rate is 2.6% for all live births, in Nebraska the rate is 3.3% of all live births..
u Another factor is personal choice in which elective cesareans are more of an option today.
Regardless of the statistics or circumstances of your pregnancy, it is important to spend some time considering and planning for "unexpected" occurrences in your labor and birth and delivery.


Helpful tools for you
Goodie Bag
Having a "goodie bag" in labor can be a real comfort. It be filled with items that bring mom physical relief during labor AND can also help both mom and dad relax during those last few hours before you become parents.
Ideas for your "goodie bag" include:

  • Sour candy or lollipops
  • A favorite CD, video or tape
  • A picture
  • A spiritual verse
  • Phone numbers to call
  • Back massager
  • Deck of cards/game
  • Change for vending
  • Camera/film/video recorder/batteries/extra tape
  • Slippers
  • Tooth brush/tooth paste for mom and dad
  • A book for helping to pass the time
  • A journal for your thoughts during labor and after the baby is born.
  • Your birth plan
     

Take me back to: 9 months pregnant