An Unexpected Pregnancy Announcement

Sometimes you end up with beautiful surprises in life...

They are overwhelming and chaotic but they are part of your life. We found out a few weeks ago that we were expecting a new babe! It was a bit of a shock, but I registered for a midwife immediately and was accepted the same day at a clinic 2 blocks from our home. After two rounds of sub-par prenatal care that I received in Fort McMurray, I was going to be under the care of a midwife! Midwifery care in Alberta has something I've been using my voice to bring attention to throughout elections and changing policies. I believe in midwifery care as a prenatal/postpartum option for all low risk women. I was so happy at my first appointment...10 weeks and a great start!

And then it all changed...

I decided to have a dating ultrasound to confirm my dates as I was fairly certain but I didn't want the pressure to induce at the end of the pregnancy to be so great if I was mistaken. I took my two girls, 6 and 8 years, along with me (summer break from school) as they have been thrilled with the idea of being big sisters to a new baby. Right at the start something looked off. It looked like the there was two sacs and two babies...

Yes, there were two. The tech kindly showed me both babies and asked if I was surprised. Umm, WTF!! I covered my eyes with my hands and then look over to the girls to ask them if they understood what she meant. They were busting with excitement! TWINS!

They got to share the news with their dad once we got home. We are still in a bit of shock and I'm starting to prepare as twins are considered high risk...no more midwife and no more home birth. My disappointment in those losses is still high, but the idea of two babies is growing on me!! I'll be sharing insights, ups and downs throughout the pregnancy here on the blog.

I'm starting a new Birth Boot Camp 10 week childbirth series in NW Calgary August 16...how cool is it that I get to be pregnant along with my students!! There are a couple spaces open. I'll be sharing loads of information for low and high risk births including discussions about prenatal testings, supporting each other with relaxation techniques and comfort measures, prenatal nutrition and exercise, breastfeeding and life with a new baby! Our evidence based information aims to help  facilitate discussions between mom and her partner as well as her caregiver.

Partners love the Birth Boot Camp curriculum as it gives them tools to fill their birth tool box. Moms love the confidence they build!

Unsure? Call me and we can set-up a 15 minute online meeting to answer any questions you may have.

Thanks for joining me and my family on our next adventure!

With Supporting Arms,
Laurie McGowan