Thanks to all who have offered info and experience around hypnobirthing, OBs and gross fluids. 
I have spent the better part of the last three days devouring this book: Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth and have found it to be SUCH a hopeful and exciting perspective.
For those who may not know, Ina May Gaskin is the godmother of modern midwifery. In 1971, in the first wave of feminism, she founded and directed a natural birthing center called The Farm, where she delivered over 2200 babies before retiring in 1996. This place sounds amazing – with cottages and nature trails and a team of experienced midwives who see giving birth as this joyous, empowering, sacred act that is yes, painful as ALL HELL sometimes.
Reading this book is not only helping to alleviate my ignorance, but also my fears. It has a list of the right questions to ask of an OB and a midwife. I’m still pretty sure I want to be in a hospital with the understanding that it’s drug-free unless there are serious issues. It’s time to start interviewing OBs, midwives and doulas. If anyone has a recommendation of someone you really loved (or tips on someone to avoid) please let me know!
Ina May Gaskin, you are a rock star.
Friends and wise counselors – thank you thank you thank you. I started this blog as a place to rant and you have made it an invaluable resource for me. I cannot thank you enough.
Christine said,
November 6, 2007 at 3:45 pm
We had Connor at home. Chicago Community Midwives put us through this visualization exercise- what do you want your birth to be- who should be there- what music- what food- where should the baby be born. After 3 hospital births- induced, pitocin, screamin’ in on a gurney in the hall- what an amazing contrast. it was 100% as we envisioned it. People circulating around the house, my own linens (covered with those diaper things)….candles, rockin out in the shower during transition. The other kids arrived home as the last shouts of expulsion rang out- 10 pounds 4 ounces of baby boy… who had no name for a week, as we got to know him. You’ll do great. Love. Xtine
sca said,
December 15, 2007 at 8:39 pm
I have heard great things about Britt Fohrman (www.brittfohrman.com). A good friend of mine swears by her – Britt was her doula for an at-home VBAC. She also teaches pre+post natal yoga, is a bodyworker, and also does birth photography….