Birth Isn't A Numbers Game by Emma Watson
How often do we hear “when is your due date?” Or “how dilated…” or “how big is baby”.
If you’re thinking all the time. You’re right.
We can often get so focused on numbers but if we are keeping it real- no one truly knows the answer to these things!!!!
There is no egg timer that goes off or 100% certain date a baby will arrive.
There is no fool proof ultrasound out there that is going to 100% accurately guess how much baby will weigh.
Even dilation is so subjective. Every health professional out there is going to have a slightly different interpretation of dilation (and birth isn’t linear anyway).
Of course these things are important, they play a role in how and when care is provided.
But it’s important to decide what we are actually going to do with this information.
Some things to think about:
We know that only about 5% of women give birth on their due date, and certainly as that date comes and goes it can be hard and tiresome. So, consider whether you are going to tell people your due DATE or just your due MONTH? Telling people your due month avoids the back and forth that can take place. The texts and calls to ask if the baby is here yet or whether you’re having any signs. I know this sounds like an insignificant decision in the scheme of things but trust me when I say it can make a huge difference.
There is a 15% variation above or below estimated ultrasound weight. Therefore, it’s important to consider the benefits, risks, and alternatives when it comes to any intervention based on the estimated weight of the baby. But also, consider your mind frame leading into birth or the stress associated with baby’s size. This in itself can cause anxiety and fear associated with the upcoming birth.
Dilation. It’s so much more than the number!!! But it is so easy to get caught up on that number. You might be 2cm dilated but the cervix has completely thinned, baby’s head has descended, and the cervix is soft and stretchy (what amazing progress that might be) but to hear that wee little number 2 can really impact your state of mind in labour and ability to believe in yourself. So, have a think ahead of time. Do you really want to know how dilated you are if you have an examination? Or would you just like to know if you have progressed? Do you even want an examination? Or would you prefer to know the reasoning and recommendations based on potential outcomes before proceeding with a vaginal exam.
You can make these choices and you SHOULD make these choices.
Emma Watson is a Tasmanian based Midwife, Nurse and Childbirth educator, teaching Calmbirth amongst her local community. She is the founder of Seasons of Birth, an online platform she created to share knowledge and experience that will support and educate women and families to feel confident and prepared for pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. Seasons of Birth was created after I was able to see the power of knowledge and confidence in the birthing realm and noticing how much fear, stress and anxiety currently surrounded this. To empower women and remind them of their ability to emerge physically, emotionally, and spiritually well from this journey is what it is all about. Follow her on instagram @seasonsofbirth_