Soul Connection Chapter 71
AO3
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
The hospital tour is eye opening. She understands something of modern medicine with Jamie being a physician. She has grown close to Gail, Joe's wife, as well. From her, she has learned what it means to be a physician ‘s wife.
Still, as she, Jamie, and Mama Ellen walk through the labor unit with the other expectant families, she is amazed by what she sees.
“Many of our mum’s find laboring and even giving birth in the tub a pleasant experience. The water supports the back and bump during the waves.”
Waves she has learned is their name for the pain of bringing a child forth.
“We can still give the gas and air throughout.” One of the two midwives giving the tour adds.
“It helps, some.” Mama Ellen whispers to her.
“It does.” The midwife has sharp ears.
“Only epidurals take all the pain away. Many of our clients opt for that.”
“That's what I'm doing.” One of the other lasses says.
“Me too.”
“Why wouldn't you?” A third says.
“Well,” her head is down. The others, they seem much more confident than than she feels. Her hand is tight in his, “it is a big thing, isn't it? Why wouldn't you want to experience it?”
One of the midwife’s smiles at her. “That is one way to look at it. A good way. This is an experience you will never forget, no matter how you and your partner decide to do it.”
“We can decide?”
“Aye. Whether you want all medical intervention or minimal. Here or at home, it is all up to you.”
This last gets her attention. It doesn't surprise either her husband or her mother in law.
“Wait. We can give birth at home?”
“Aye. If you meet certain requirements.”
“May I…”
“After the tour, if you wish to discuss home birth, we can. Does anyone else want to discuss home birth?”
One other couple does. After the tour, both are interviewed. Both are eligible for home birth.
