I had no idea there were so many decisions to make during pregnancy. Of course I knew we'd have to decide on things like purchases for the baby and daycare, but I never though about actual birth decisions. My friend Stephanie recommended that I read the book Pushed, and it has opened my eyes. I've also done some additional research since reading the book, to make sure that I'm not just being swayed by one book.
I always assumed I'd have a "standard" hospital delivery with an OB, and that I'd probably get an epidural, just because it's all I knew. It's what most of my friends have done, and it's how you see birth portrayed on TV and in movies. But my research has made me decide to switch to a midwifery practice. I won't get too preachy and explain my reasoning, but it is the right decision for me. I really didn't know what a midwife was until a few weeks ago. While they're not surgeons like OBs, midwifes are trained in birth and tend to lean more towards natural birth and letting the body figure out what to do. The practice I chose delivers at a hospital (with a NICU) and has a backup OB, so I'm covered in case of an emergency. They'll also give me pain medication if I decide I need it. So there was really no downside for me. The practice and the hospital are both only 2 miles from my house, so they're much more convenient, which is an added bonus. I plan to go to my current OB for my 20-week appointment since it is already scheduled, and then I will make the switch.
I'm very happy that I chose to research my options, and I feel very calm and confident about my decision.
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