You’ve done your research. You know the midwife you want to use. You know what music you want playing. You know you don’t want any vaginal exams or eye ointment. You’ve read every book that you could possibly want to read. You’ve listened to the podcasts. You’re enrolled in the BIRTHFIT Prenatal Training Program and the Birth Education Small Group. You’re nourishment includes nutrient dense foods and intentional self-care. You practice breathing and meditation daily.
HOLD UP.
How’s your husband/boyfriend/partner preparing for the arrival of the new baby?
Did your partner help you construct your birth preferences?
Have y’all discussed any vaccinations, medications, and your philosophies on wellness and raising a kid?
Has your partner gone to any midwife or doctor appointments with you?
Do you know your partner’s birth philosophy?
Does your partner know how he/she was brought into this world?
You need to chat. Embrace discussion. You each have your own map of the world. Hear each other out. Start before the third trimester. You and your partner need to be seeing eye to eye, finishing each other’s sentences, and breathing the same breaths. That way, when labor and delivery is here, that you are in tune with each other and act as a team.
Go through your birth preferences together. Go on new and fun dates. Get to know each other and fall in love all over again.