Labor and Delivery Course
We had our first of two courses tonight and it was very enjoyable. The British Mrs. Berge had a nice presentation and gave printed information on her timeline for discussion, a great list of translations for related words, as well as a list of possible questions. The course was originally planned for three or four couples but it was us and one other couple which I felt was even nicer.
She first went over the first signs of labor, through the stages, pain relief. She also gave us a quick tour – we should see more tomorrow. She showed us a room where you’d go for just a check up, a delivery room and a two-man’s room (a room you share while you might be waiting to go into labor or are under examination but not laboring yet). Even though this wasn’t our hospital, the equipment and such are the same even if not in the exact wing arrangment. The other couple is also not giving birth at Rikshospitalet so Mrs. Berge is getting more specific information to our respective locations. Their hospital, Ulleval has a “hotel” on site for those in good, normal shape to stay in during their hospital stay. Ours, Baerum has a “family room” where people can stay but we’re not sure of the exact qualifications for using it.
My thoughts have been that I need to use the pain and don’t want *any* drugs. I’ve been dead set against using them. After listening and thinking during the course I realized that what’s more important is how I feel about my laboring. In order to feel my best, I need to be mentally at ease, to avoid things that make me uneasy and take things that help. It may turn out that I am exhausted or in more pain than is helpful and should take something. I want to use my own strength and do as much as is possible naturally. I won’t stress myself either way, that will only make it harder and distress me and the baby.
The single delivery rooms are great. They have all the monitoring equipment for pregnant mom and baby and for new mom and baby. Also a private bath with a good size tub, a shower, sink and toilet. All the newborn procedures are done after gaining our consent and in full view. If more intensive work needs to be done Tim can follow baby. As soon as I’m ready after having delivered, I can get up and do what I want in my room, shower, walk, sleep (if baby lets me 
).
At home, before I have gone into labor and think I might be or just have questions, I can call in as many times as I want and even go in to get checked out and go home if I want. I think Mom will be able to answer my questions and we’ll call the hospital when my water has broken because they like to know what’s going on and be ready for you, then go in when I’m ready. Baerum is about 30 minutes outside Oslo, so I don’t want to go back and forth. They want you to make as many calls in to them as you deem necessary. They encourage normal laboring and birthing but have everything available at request and need. Nothing is forced, we are always consulted and kept in the loop as to what is going on.
This is gonna be good. 
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