Uncomfortable with sister's request

[Anonymous]

I experienced exactly the reverse as you. I personally had two home births. (I was naked in a tub both times, although my DH did not join me. You probably would have hated them.)

However, a friend of mine who had no one else asked me to accompany her to her hospital birth. She is very deferential to doctors, does not question their decisions, and I worried that I would be extremely uncomfortable in that environment.

However, this was not about me. It was about supporting her in her birth choices. So I did it. I kept my mouth shut about the hospital things that personally made me uncomfortable (nurses telling her she could not drink water, telling her not to push at certain times, etc). I focused entirely on her and offering her constant support and encouragement. It was easy to act like nothing else mattered, because nothing else did.

You're an adult, you can get through this. So you might see some people naked...so what?!?! That's nothing compared to getting to see a new human being coming into the world. You have been invited to be present at a deeply meaningful moment. It's an honor and, I think, a duty. I couldn't imagine saying no. I wouldn't suggest for one moment that you might feel uncomfortable. You're a big girl....if your sister can squeeze a giant baby out of her lady parts, you can surely tough out seeing some granola crunchy stuff that is not quite your style....do it for love.

[Anonymous]

OP here,
I've decided to go, didn't mention anything to my sister about my hang ups.
I want to be there for her outweighs everyrthing else.
She is going to arrange for me to speak to her midwife, and I've been on Youtube looking up home births.
I think it will be okay- so long as BIL wears pants.

[Anonymous]

Good for you, OP. Please post back afterwards and let us know how it went.

I'd love to hear how your views change afterwards.

[Anonymous]

That's great, OP. I'm glad you'll be able to help your sister like this. I think it's also ok to clarify with your sister that her husband will wear boxers or a swim trunk.

[Anonymous]

Just sit behind her. You'll be fine!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Just sit behind her. You'll be fine!

^^ This.

Look at her face. Be in the wings.
It is also a nice way to honor your mom.

Good for you.