I Might Give Birth in a Stock Tank

For real.

One of the books I read on home waterbirth a woman said she had just used a feed trough/stock tank from the fleet store for her first birth. And they're a lot cheaper than ordering an actual birthing tub.

Welcome to my crazy life.

We live on a farm, after all. So what's the big deal? Right?

Ha!

Source.

Mark had to run to the feed store this afternoon after work so we all went along for the ride with the intention of stopping at the fleet to check out the tanks. And, after seeing them, I know they'd work. I'd just need some sort of inflatable backrest or something to use in it for a little more comfort.

I keep telling myself I can do this. I keep giving myself little pep talks. And brainwashing. You just have to push those thoughts out of your head and say you can do it, and you will. I know that. But I suppose it's all part of the emotions leading up to birth. That, and the little moments where I kind of get all giddy and jump up and down with excitement like a little kid waiting in anticipation for Christmas. (true story.)

The stock tanks also appeal to me because I've been wanting to add some to our garden out back. And this way it could easily be recycled into the yard afterward. It would make a great container garden. (For anyone mildly curious, you purchase a liner to be used inside to keep it sanitary for yourself and baby during the birth, regardless of which tub you go with.)

Skipping on to other things... I started scouring Craigslist today. Found a Mid-Century cupboard (like the one in the picture. but totally different) and emailed the seller. Still waiting to hear from them. But it is exactly what I've been looking for. Or at least one of the many things I've been looking for. And the price can't be beat. Mark said he'd pick it up for me, too, so I'm hoping to hear from them soon. Crossing my fingers! And trying not to get too excited about it in case I never hear back from them or something. I've heard Craigslist people can be silly like that. Wishing they had a number instead of just email.

It is so difficult to find retro furniture where I live. I have to check several different city's Craigslist listings - and they're usually at least 45 minutes to over an hour or more from us. So this would be something to find a piece like this the first day I actually started looking.

Comments

[Becca]

A bathtub works, too....or a sauna. Stock tank, huh? ;)

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Jennifer here: I thought about using the tub. But our bathroom is really small to fit everyone in. And my midwife had said most tubs, ours included, don't fill up enough to give the mom any relief during labor.

[cami]

Sounds like a good way to give birth...stick with the 'all natural, farm' feeling right? I gave birth in a birthing tub for our last 2 that were born at home. But I was lucky enough that my midwife owns some birthing tubs herself so we rent the tub and buy the liner from her.

[Sara]

You 'CAN' do this!! And I think in a way it does get easier with each kid...each birth is so different and you learn so much from each one....got a chuckle out of this post...from birth tub to garden..haha. sounds like a good option! :)

[julie m]

Fascinating. :) I hope your new cupboard works out well!