big considerations
And here's a big question. Should I let the baby bird be there for the birth of her sibling if it's appropriate (like the middle of the day and she's not out socializing with the neighbours or asleep or whatever)?? Or, will it be too traumatic for her to see her mummy looking like she is in pain when she's never seen me even cry before? If she were older I would ask her what she wanted and then be fine with whatever she said but although she talks about a baby a lot and is currently very interested in the idea of a baby getting milk frim my breasts I really don't think she could understand 'birth' well enough - or could she?
posted by raven at 8:36 pm
4 Comments:
That's a question I've wondered about too. My first thought is "no". But I'm curious to talk to Toumbi about it and discuss it- the points for and against.
Have you done some internet research on some of your questions? It's an area I know so little about. Have your midwives been much help with these questions?
This comment has been removed by the author.
My first reaction was no too but then I read and saw so many birth stories where little children were present and seemingly excited. I wonder if their presence at birth helps acceptance of the new sibling who will rob them of some of their parental attention? But I really think I would be a bit traumatized at seeing a birth if I didn't know what was happening and she must be too young to understand fully what is happening. I haven't spoken to the midwives about it yet but will....or my husband for that matter, but he is becoming a bit vacant as the time draws nearer and he is getting more scared himself.
Tell me what conclusion you come to. I think I am hoping it will all take place in the middle of the night so she is asleep....or maybe I will get a friend with small children to come and play on the village green with her so she doesn't think I am going away but SHE is. hmm. more thought needed.
On a seperate note I am waiting for some hypnobirthing cds to arrive in the post. They apparently help deal with past birth traumas as well as providing lots of affirmations, relazation techniques and other ways of tapping into your primevel subconscious to turn within during labor and therefore accept and embrace the pain and all that comes with it making for an easier birth. Sounds a bit hippy but I know someone who had a great birth after listening to them lots and that was after two previous terrible labors so it's worth a try hey? I'm seeing the expense as a birthday present to myself....
I'm just running out (for therapy!)- but Toumbi was saying that his friend was there for a birth with the sibling of the newborn present- and it seemed important to him that there be an adult present who is there primarily to meet the needs of the older sibling... if she needs comfort, to talk, to do something else for a while. This friend of Toumbi's was the one taking care of the little boy who watched- and he said that the boy wanted to hold his hand through the event- and that that had seemed important.
Post a Comment
<< Home