Anastasia’s pregnancy diary – weeks 36–38

My lotions and potions

Not only do I have to bring the essential stuff, I’ve also done tons of research and embarked on an alternative medicine rampage purchasing every single thing that I have read about, or imagined might help me get through labour without drugs. (Remember my epidural-links-to-Caesearean fear?) So, I’ve stocked up on a homeopathic labour kit. It includes remedies for intense fear (can I take one now, please?) irrationality, negativity, inability to cope, etc.

I’ve told Nick he has to familiarise himself with the instruction sheet and shove the little tablets under my tongue as I display the varying waves of mania as described in the leaflet. I’ve also tapped into aromatherapy and stocked up on the birthing essentials. Apparently clary sage brings on contractions and acts as a painkiller, while lavender relaxes the muscles and makes it easier to push. I’m armed with my smelly candles and rose-scented face spray. I’ve got vitamin C for healing. There’s Bach’s Rescue Remedy for, I suppose, more fear, not to mention arnica cream (not exactly sure where to put it) and some kind of homeopathic spray for a sore perineum.

Then there’s the food and energy section. I’ve got glucose tablets in case I cannot eat. Peppermints in case I’m nauseous. Lucozade in case I’m dehydrated. And every flavour of energy/granola bar that exists in case I have uncontrollable carbohydrate cravings.

This bag is heavy. I know I’ll probably use about one-tenth of the stuff in there, but the tiny element of control that gathering and packing it has given me is probably worth it. It’ll be interesting to see if any of it actually works. I’ll keep you posted. Meanwhile, I’m off for a cup of raspberry leaf tea: tones the uterus, tastes like Sellotape.

See Josa's pregnancy diary for weeks 36-38.