Preparing for an unassisted birth

[astroaurora]

What would you say one needs to prepare for an unassisted birth? What unexpected situations could arise and how would you handle them?

[teatime]

hi!

I'ma gonna ask a few questions
how far along are you?
what kind of physical shape are you in (i don't mean skinny or plump, i mean do you get exercise, etc.)
how is your support system?
do you mean completely unassisted or with a doula or midwife along for the ride?

[astroaurora]

I am 29 weeks, In good health. I could definitely use more exercise but I am not your average American either. I've taken good care of myself eating well and using nutritional herbs. I have received supplemental care 1st from a birthing center and also from a "lay" midwife. There is another midwife in our area who is well established and also a cpm who I am just beginning to talk with. She is coming to see me today and I am going to be upfront about my desire to have an unassisted birth and maybe she could serve as a "back up". This is my 2nd child and my first was a home birth with a midwife. I feel fairly knowledgeable about birth. I feel like I understand what complications can arise for the mother such as pre-eclampsia (no signs of that), placenta previa (an ultrasound has shown that is not a problem), hemorrhaging, and infection. I know what leads to the last 2, know ways to prevent and also to deal with them. What I am not so certain about is what issues could happen with the baby and how to handle them. I feel that knowledge will give me confidence but the unknown leads to fear. I also feel confident in my body, capable to birth my baby and I am very excited about having an intimate and empowering birth experience.

[RoseRed]

When you say a 'back up' - do you mean someone sitting in the corner of the room just in case or someone you can call who will jump at a moment's notice.

I give you credit - I'm not that brave.

[sapphire kate]

I'd suggest getting on an email list or forum dedicated to UB, so that you can ask questions over time as new things arise. There are a few women here who have had UB but we're quiet too.

Also, there have been some good discussions in past threads on this.

[teatime]

there are several u.c. birth groups.
mothering.com has a huge u.c. community, although they are kinda quiet i would p.m. a couple of people there and ask where they post privately.
there is also laura shanley's website and group www.unassistedchildbirth.com
bornfreeforum.com
birthjunkie.com has a facebook group (birthjunkie is very very christian.)

[astroaurora]

Thank you guys for the advice, I will try some of the other forums. I did speak with my midwife yesterday just to get her general oppinion and to see what she was willing to do. She was very supportive and straight forward. She said she wouldn't expect anything to happen although sometimes things do and she said she would be there for me in whatever way I choose whether it be near by but out of sight or someone to call in case I have questions.

[teatime]

your welcome. i had a midwife with my birth and it was for the most part a wonderful experience. however if i was to have more children i would very much consider a home birth u.c. i have attended them as a doula (to catch the baby and other less medical stuff) if you have any more specific questions feel free to ask.