My husband is my hero

Someone very dear to us asked us about our birth plans. We told him that we were going to birth by ourselves again. He told Chris, "You're brave!" That remark helped me to realize that Chris is a very remarkable man. I cannot thank God enough that he has given me a husband who accepts and supports me so unconditionally.

My father was not allowed to be with my mother with any of their children's births at the hospital. Interestingly, I think Dr. Odent would approve:

www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-559913/A-obstetrician-men-NEVER-birth-child.html

Initially I was dismayed at his views but I can see his point after some reflection. Many men probably do add to their wives' stress during childbirth. They may be fearful of what might happen and feel helpless. With our births, Chris' presence gives me a sense of completeness and joy that I would hate to have to do without. And I've had to. Three times. I can birth without my husband at my side, but I'd much rather have his love and support during the birth of our child. He's not my midwife...he doesn't tell me how to birth and yet, the trust and peace he shows makes it all so beautiful and ...relaxing. Yes, relaxing. If you were at at our last birth, you would witness a very calm and quiet atmostphere and our children were present! He would give me all the credit, but I am definitely willing to share it. :) I don't think he was ever nervous or impatient at the two homebirths he's been with me.

Our first hospital birth was a different story. I was 20 years old and in good health, but was treated like I was about to die! So, of course we were both nervous. Hopefully things have changed since then, but 16 years ago, I was confined to a bed as soon as I got to the hospital. An IV was started, external and internal monitors were put on me, I was given an epidural without the doctor ever coming and then because the epidural stalled my labor, pitocin was given, again without my permission or the doctor being there. Even though I begged not to be cut, the doctor ignored me and gave me an episeotomy. I have not torn with any of my other births. God has been very gracious in allowing me to experience a medically managed birth that didn't end up in a C-section. I can appreciate our homebirths that much more because of it.

Thinking back to our first homebirth, Chris really was brave. Word got out about our birthing plans and his command ordered him to take me to the hospital for the birth...or else. We were stressed, but were not deterred. We were rewarded with a beautiful birth and our first daughter!

We look forward to this birth with anticipation and thankfulness to God for blessing us with another precious son or daughter.

52 days or less to go!