So my nephew's wife went into labor last night

[megapuzzler]

(In a blue state, luckily.) He is not only my nephew but my godson and is like a sibling to my two kids. My son texted me this morning and I had to tell him no news yet. He's been through this before with their child so he knows that's getting to be a longish time. As we both sat on the phone silently concerned together, he finally sighed and said, "Well, I guess we need to go boil some water now." Cracked me up.

[quebedox]

1. 2 things they asked me that no one prepared me for

During my son’s childbirth, both theses things happened:

1. Someone actually tried to explain an episiotomy to me and pointed in her direction so I witnessed it in real time. Don’t do that.

2. Be prepared for someone to shove a tray in your face and ask if you want to inspect the placenta.

This was all 24 years ago, and you’re in a different hospital, so maybe your mileage will vary, but there’s a text you could send your nephew if you want to give him even more to worry about.

Congratulations to the mother and father!

[megapuzzler]

2. Yikes!

My birth experiences were 40+ years ago, so there was no placenta examination offered, and I fortunately didn't require an episiotomy. I was VERY fortunate -- my first birth was 6 hours from start to finish and my second was 3 hours -- no complications either time. So every time I talk to someone who went 12 hours plus, I really feel for them.

[megapuzzler]

3. Oh, and a very warm welcome to DU to you.