Last year, we decided to try to eat more organic foods.  We bought a wheat mill and grind our own wheat for bread and buy from a co-op of organic foods.  We support our local farmers by buying vegetables.  All of this has been a good thing.  However, when I found out I was expecting, a lot of it went out the window.  Macaroni and cheese, how I missed thee.  We are getting back on track, though, and I find that I miss having the fresh fruits and veggies at home.

When you talk about pregnancy, going “natural” takes on a whole new meaning.  We have quite a few friends at church that have taken this natural approach to pregnancy and childbirth, and although I don’t have a problem with what they choose to do or not do, it often irritates me when someone expresses distaste or questions my ideas.

For example, the following exchange took place a few weeks ago:

Well Intentioned “natural” acquaintance: How are you doing?

Me: I’m doing great except for my cankles.  (Shows off ugly swollen ankles.)

Well Intentioned “natural” acquaintance: Oh, that is uncomfortable?  When are you due?

Me: In August sometime.  They say the 20th, but since we are having a c-section, it will be scheduled earlier.

Well Intentioned “natural” acquaintance: (I swear I hear an almost audible gasp, and then…) Oh, that is disappointing.  Why on earth would they schedule a c-section?  I would find another opinion.

Me: Well, my first two babies were c-sections.

Well Intentioned “natural” acquaintance: Oh!  Why is that?!  (dismay sounds in her voice.)

Me: They were both breech babies and…

Well Intentioned “natural” acquaintance: Oh, my fourth baby was breech and I stood on my head and did all sorts of things to get him to turn and finally, I went swimming in the pool and did 60 consecutive somersaults.  It made me so sick that I puked.  But the baby turned and I was able to have him naturally.  I was so happy.

Me: Wow.  Hmmm.  (I don’t quite know what to say about the puking.)  Well, with both of them, I tried the stuff they tell you to do, like standing on my head and stuff, and the doctors even tried to move them by putting their hands on my belly and manipulating them that way.  Nothing worked.  After two c-sections, they don’t really recommend having a vaginal birth.

Well Intentioned “natural” acquaintance: Oh my, that’s too bad!  Have you tried the pool?

Me: The doctor has told me that I will probably end up having breech babies because of the way my body is.

So anyway, I am all for “natural” childbirth and all that, but I never had the opportunity to experience it and frankly, I’m not sad about it.  We have been able to pick our kids birthdays, and we were more prepared for the “big day.”  For me, “natural” childbirth is a c-section, since I have never experienced labor and delivery.  I have experienced being cut open while awake feeling a ‘tugging’ sensation when they were doing surgery.  I had my arms strapped down and my husband at my side with a sheet blocking the view of the actual surgery.  I was still able to hold the baby right after they were pulled out and I wasn’t drugged out.  Recovery was longer, but at least I had something for the pain.

We are thinking that Emily’s birthday will be on August 14th, although the hospital and doctor need to confirm that day.  I will keep you posted.