Childbirth Community in Oman

Well, we had our first childbirth class last week. We talked about the anatomy of pregnancy and childbirth. Using an anatomically correct pelvis, uterus, placenta and baby, we talked about the ideal positions (for the baby) in labor and what happens as the cervix dilates and the the baby descends into the birthing canal. The fathers were fascinated:) We did some pre-natal yoga and some exercises for helping the baby engage properly. Then we did a little birth art. All the mothers in the class are going through birth for the second time. I had them paint or draw a picture of what they felt like during the most intense moments of their previous labor. We all enjoyed sharing our stories with one another. :)

When I first started forming this ante-natal class series, I was simply responding to a need in the local community. One of the unexpected outcomes is that I have been contacted by several different women who work in the birthing community. I hope that this will be the beginning of a gathering of like minds, of other women--midwifes, doulas, breastfeeding advocates, etc.---who are anxious to network together to improve childbirth and early motherhood here in Oman.  I have been contacted by a CNM, a Professional Midwife, a Doula and other mothers who are excited for this new opportunity. I am hoping to gather everyone together in the near future to form a birthing community network for Oman. If you are interested in helping or joining or have suggestions, please let me know. I'll update as things develop :)