Planning for the unexpected in birth: an activity to help your doula clients prepare.
Planning for the “unexpected” will help reduce the trauma of those events. Trauma arises when the chaos of unexpected events takes over the navigation of those events. Think of the sudden home birth transfer when not even a travel bag is packed or childcare arrangements have been made…
5 card game played during a Prep4Partner™ class
One of the birth preparation exercises I do with my clients is the 5 card game. Each person gets 5 cards (the birther and their partner each have their own 5 cards) to choose 5 labor and birth experiences that are really important to them and write each one on a card. They should not discuss this with each other ahead of time but rather write down what immediately comes to mind. I then ask them to take turns pulling that card and making a plans B and C - maybe even plan D - for that item. We go over various scenarios, what might happen or not happen, what are choices that can be made in those circumstances, what does the evidence provide to support their choices, and how would they best feel prepared in those circumstances.
I encourage them to tape these cards on their refrigerator or bathroom mirror where they can look at them, think about them, and discuss with each other over time. Why? Because over time, their ideas may change and plans evolve. They become familiar with the idea of change being a part of the parenting process (I mean, who has a toddler? How many times a day do your plans change when parenting a toddler! ha!).
Some of the families that I work with have told me that this was the most important activity that they did as a couple in preparing for their birthing time. This testimonial (below) is THE WHY behind teaching this class!
“Thank goodness for the 5 card game. I didn’t realize how valuable that exercise was until we had our home birth transfer. We felt completely prepared with a go-bag ready, childcare and pets cared for, even a vomit bag in the car. So thankful. Even though it was an emergency, we didn’t feel traumatized by it. ”
Learn more about becoming a 4th Trimester Fitness Method Prep4Partner™ instructor here
