Athlete's version of labor

Specialties Ob/Gyn

Published

Not long ago received a elder primip in labor. She arrived with a substantial birth plan and every intention of enduring a natural labor and delivery. She ended up with two nurses and at 1 cm told us she couldn't take it anymore and that labor at THAT point was worse than any of her many tri athalons, swimming from one community to an island many miles away and anything else she had ever gone through....Poor thing. I think she was so toned that her cervix couldn't relax and dialate...She eventually ended up with an epidural because she was in such good shape that her uterus pounded out the contractions.I felt so badly for her...She told me she had a renewed respect for the labor and delivery process and if everyone had to undergo that at Olympic trials there would be scant few athletes that could ever make world class! Isn't that cute???:)

I have not seen a difference with elder, mid range or young people in labor with their first child...I have, however, noticed that sometimes the older first time parents, having become accustomed to a life time of things directed toward them, have some difficulty adjusting to the schedule changes and fatigue..Labor is labor...I haven't noticed anyone liking it from age 12 to 46...So far, that is...

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Specializes in Women's health & post-partum.
Sort of OT but who else hates the term "elderly primip"?

Beth

ME--ME

I was 31 and I did not feel "elderly" :chuckle .

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one problem with 'elderly' parents is that they believe the idea that labor 'pains' are not really pains if they have mind over matter..that it is a myth that weak people give in to..then comes reality

another reality is a baby when they use best 'i am in control here tone of voice' you will stop crying now

babies really respond to that

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