Navigating Childbirth: Concerns About Prenatal Class Preparation

Question
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My husband and I did attend prenatal classes.  But the sad thing about that was the only thing that we learned was how to give a massage and the stages of labor.  She breifly touched on dilating.  But not enough in detail.  Didn't talk about effacing or stripping membranes.  I do not feel like taking the prenatal classes prepared me for childbirth.   
Followup To
Question -
I went to the doctor today.  She said I was 65% Effaced and almost dilated at a 1.  She told me that when I see her next week that if I was dilated at a 1 then she would strip my membranes.  Please explain to me about where I am at on effacing, dilating, and stripping membranes.  This is my first pregnancy so I am a little confused.
Answer -
Hello Brooke. Once again- I wonder WHY you did not take prenatal classes- were they suggested? were they available? I would really like to know why! You are at the appropriate stage for 38 weeks- you are NOT progressing any earlier than normal. Your dr. wants to hurry things along for HER convenience only- do NOT allow her to strip your membranes- first of all, it will be very uncomfortable and even painful. It may weaken the amniotic membranes and cause them to rupture too early and then you will have to deliver within 24 hours whether labor starts or not- most often ends in a section. Tell your dr at your next visit that you are very content to wait until nature decides that the time is right. Only your baby and your body know when it is time- let it happen when it is ready and NOT before. Over the next 2-4 weeks your tightenings will get stronger and more frequent, your cervix will soften and continue to efface, your baby will slip lower into your pelvis and you will begin to dilate. It is all very well planned out- don't interfere with it. All the best- Cheri.

Answer
Hello Brooke- you certainly did NOT get good info in those classes!! I'm not sure how to help you with only 2-4 weeks left. If you would be willing to invest in a book or two, I think that would be your BEST bet to help you with what is to come. The two I would recommend are: Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way by Susan McCutcheon- available from the Bradley Childbirth website or Amazon- ask for SPEED delivery and the other one is The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth by Sheila Kitzinger- likely in any Chapters or Indigo bookstore. I do urge you to do this reading AND see if you can find a Doula who will take you on. Call your local La Leche League Leader and ask her if she knows of any Doula'a or midwives in the area- you REALLY need a birth advocate in the hospital. All the best- Cheri.