NCT Take 2

Well we were neither ostracised nor lynched by the group, which I took to be a good sign. Perhaps last weeks misdemeanours are, if not forgiven, forgotten.

Last night we learned at which point in the labour process it's appropriate to call an ambulance and when you should just press speed dial 1 to get your midwife (an important distinction as if you aren't established they'll send you home again!). We also discussed what you should pack in your hospital bag - this should include a picnic for your birthing partner/s. I remember calling home when Little Sis went into labour with Niece 1 to see how she was, to learn that Marmee was baking a cake "for Jonathan - he'll get hungry". The answer to most Elwick scenarios (good, bad or other) is tea and cake - Marmee, think my husband is hoping for a victoria sponge or coffee cake!

We also did our first labour massage and breathing exercises. This was a tad odd; not something you really want to do in a church hall with 15 other people. Luckily there's a dimmer switch so the dusky light meant it wasn't quite as awkward as it could have been. Mine & hubbalina's breathing has never been entirely synchronised; he's quick and shallow (smoker, tsk tsk), mine is slow and deep. Still, this fact now firmly established (marriage is a constant learning curve) we will add breathing practice and back massage to our nightly to do list which already includes the quite hilarious perineum massage. The first time we tried it I laughed so hard I cried. With the SPD it's not easy, nor entirely comfortable, spreading your legs, but if it reduces the chances only a teensy bit of cutting or tearing then I, for one, am all for it.