Learning to Birth?

Nate and I, after much thought, had decided to sign up for birthing classes put on through Torrance Memorial Hospital. For me it was not so much to "learn" about the birthing process
(I grew up with childbirth classes happening in my living room, and remember playing with the fake pelvis my Mum had lol) but to get to know my hospital's policies and procedures, and what their views were on delivery and care. Last night was the first class, and I was happy to find out some new policies the hospital had put in place just recently, such as the "golden hour" (no longer whisking the baby away after birth...but leaving him/her with the parents for a whole hour with no interruption) and the "skin to skin" policy. The teacher is also a huge advocate of breast feeding and told us that formula has been mostly removed from the hospital as an offer to newborns.

I am also keen to let Nate get some education on all things related to pregnancy and birth...although the video we watched was challenging in some areas lol!
Although I am observing everything, I am also very guarded on what to take on as the "right way." I just wanted to go to a class that was open to all aspects, including pain medication, which I am planning on using. All in all it was good...I just can't wait to get to the epidural part of the class ha ha ;)

In other news, my OB appointment went well, but I had to have an RH factor shot....in my BUTT lol! It wasn't bad, just a new "experience" for me. Also my blood results came back, and they show I am anemic...so I have to take extra iron pills. Caden is still head down (it must be his favorite spot - he's been the same for weeks and weeks) and enjoys kicking me in the ribs now. In two weeks is my final ultrasound to measure him and guesstimate size - and coming up on Monday is my baby shower - how exciting!!! Maybe I'll see you then?