1/24/2008

Moderation in all things.

I'm no extremist. I feel like I live pretty "middle of the road" when it comes to most things. But lately I have been obsessed with a few things....I MUST have a cup of chocolate milk when I wake up. You know that faintish feeling you get when your completely famished? That's how I feel if I just jump right into my hot shower first thing in the morning without any nourishment. But now that quick gush of sugar in the chocolate flavored goodness takes care of that. Then, you all know of my Coke addiction. My lunch and dinner just aren't complete without it. Here a can, there a can, what's the harm? And lastly, I've really been thinking about the actual birth of this baby, and how exactly it's going to get out of me. I teach natural childbirth. I preach natural childbirth (well, sort of). I want to have a natural childbirth (like I did with Henry). But, then again I'm not out to prove anything either...it's merely an inner desire, and I would hate to disappoint myself (or my baby).

I have gotten 2 comments from people lately that have caused some concern in my mind, so this is where I shall defend my choices.

Comment: "Aren't you worried about that study that links caffeine consumption with miscarriage?"
My answer: "No. I would be, but it seems like one day eating an orange causes cancer and one day it cures it." Plus, I'm more in agreement with this article. I've never been nauseous with either one of my babes, and never had a miscarriage.

Comment: "Why would you ever want a natural birth?" (this is seen by some people as extreme)
My answer: "My body was made to do it. It can do it and has done it. I might as well give my baby the best start and not a large dose of cocaine to welcome them into the world. Caffeine yes. Cocaine no." My stance is that I've trained for a natural childbirth and plan for it to happen. This is only if everything progresses normally. Would I refuse an epidural in case of a C-section? Heck no! Would I refuse an epidural if I had been laboring for hours and hours and was completely exhausted and miserable? No! But, I'm prepared and ready to let this baby out on it's own terms when it's ready and the way nature meant for it to be. In my mind it's called "let the benefits outweigh the risks".

I guess either one of these could seem extreme to some. Maybe they seem quite opposite...a woman who drinks caffeine daily, but wants a natural birth. I don't know. But that's what I am. Take it or leave it.

12 comments:

allie said...

I think I'll take it. You are hilarious!

Melinda said...

I drank mostly caffeine free diet coke with Ben's pregnancy but with Seth's I would have a least a can or two plain diet coke and they both are fine (so far!)...as for going natural, more power to you! I for one love epidurals and cannot stand the pain of contractions longer than I have to but I admire those of you who can go natural - so I hope everything goes smoothly and you have a nice short natural labor!

Jen S. said...

Just don't put coke in Stella's bottle when she comes out.

The Unprocessed Project said...

Here is the bigger question.....how can I get milk in cute little jugs like you?

Wait, that sounded all wrong on a post about childbirth. I'm talking about the jugs in your fridge. Get your mind out of the gutter.

Anonymous said...

Falling down stairs and now this? Where is a pregnant woman expected to find any joy?

http://www.theonion.com/content/amvo/caffeine_increases_miscarriage

Jeni Boston said...

I admire you for the natural child birth thing and I don't think you drink enough Coke to cause any sort of problems. It's funny that you feel like you have to defend yourself!

Jessie said...

Those "cute little jugs" come from the local dairy. Maybe you've got some in your area too.

Unknown said...

All power to you with the natrual child birth!! I think woman are amazing if they can do it with out the drugs. And I think it is OK to drink COKE while pregnant! If you are having a natrual child birth you need something to help you get through it right??? Good luck the next few weeks of your pregnancy! you will do GREAT!!

The Lamb Family said...

Wow, you are not too far from having your baby! Good luck with everything;) I'm not big on drugs either. I'm going to try delivering Caylee natural. It's hard to say when I haven't gone through yet, you know? The baby's room is looking very cute. Can't wait to see the finished product!

Orange said...

I'll take it. I know plenty of women who will smoke weed while pregnant but refuse any sort of drug for labor. To me, you are not extreme at all. Yay for natural childbirth!

Jill said...

I think caffeine is the only thing that has kept me sane on this journey called parenthood (and pregnancy before it.) So more power to you for that, and more power to you if you can deliver a baby without pain medication. I wouldn't want to try, but I'm humbled by those who do.

one question though, aren't you LDS? Isn't caffeine a no-no? Sorry, I'm nosey.

Sarah said...

You go girl!!!! :)