We are Vera and William – both freelancers working in the arts and education. We have a 6 year old dog called Luna and now a little girl, Zoya. We took the Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes in Brockley.
My pregnancy went well – William was really involved in every stage. He found the classes really helpful. It was also great to learn about how to look after a newborn together. I’ve had babies (siblings) in my life however for William it was his first time! I found it important to learn these things together as it creates the right balance in parenting, not too mother-focused.
I really wanted a vaginal birth but Zoya was born via C-section. It was useful to learn from the HPHB course what to expect. Zoya was born in Lewisham Hospital and we had the most reassuring and confident midwife Cat, who stayed with me for the whole time.
Although it wasn’t an easy ride, I’m left with a good impression of Zoya’s birth.
I found gas and air an extremely helpful pain relief method.
The hypnobirthing breathing technique was definitely something I was glad I had learnt. I also tried to stay as active as possible.
I was shaking so I didn’t hold her straight away but William had skin to skin with her and then got her dressed. She then found my boob and stayed on it for about 50 mins. It was so sweet.
I was pleasantly surprised that we were discharged the following day and could go home. It was challenging looking after the baby after a C-section. However, it was Christmas time and we had plenty of time together. The best advice from the course was to limit the number of visitors and just focus on our new bubble, enjoying every moment.
Giving each other time and space to recharge so we can spent quality time with Zoya and give her all the love we have.
I think we’ve had it pretty good so far. I do feel rather sleep deprived but I am coping okay.
The sleep routine I have established with Zoya during the day – it usually takes about 10 minutes to put her to sleep. Even my mother in law was amazed!
I didn’t expect to feel so much love towards this little baby. I was blessed to feel it straight away.
Having a group chat with other mums helps a lot, we meet almost every week and its sweet to see how all the babies are doing.
Bring your own comfortable clothes, ideally cotton.
Smelly, runny cheese, pate and all sorts of food you’re not allowed during pregnancy. Christmas came at the right time for me!
Our bouncer has been good and a baby carrier.
Do the course! Don’t read stuff online unless it is from a trusted sources. Relax, people do it all over the world.
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