Four year old sister at delivery?

Question

Hi, mama friends!

I am due Nov 12th with our first child (a girl). 
We are using a birthing center and hubby and I have decided that we want as few people there as possible- myself, my husband, and my mother. 
I have a four year old little sister. My mom works on the weekends, and stays home during the week with her, so there's no option for her just to "go to the sitters". So, really, if I go into labor while my step-dad is at work, my little sister would have to come with my mom. 
I've heard that children can be great comforters during childbirth, and I'm sure it would be a great experience for her. I'm just not sure how I feel about it. 
What do you ladies think? 
Should we try to arrange something for her or will she be okay?

Answer

My daughter was 3 when her brother was born and was in the room and was super excited about it. We did talk a lot beforehand about how having a baby is really hard work so i might make a lot of noise, etc.  I avoided saying it was painful because i didnt want her to think the baby was hurting me.

My kids will be 9 and 6 this time and both want to be there. If it's too much for them, though, I will have someone there to take them out of the room, so your mom should be prepared to miss the actual birth if yoursister gets nervous.

Answer

I personally feel that's too young to be in the room during the delivery. During the early laboring probably fine, but during the actual delivery I'd say no.

Answer

I would maybe give it a try! Just make an exit plan for her if she is too much of a distraction. I think it's sweet to involve her and a positive way to let her see how women's bodies' work!!! I would definitely go for it.

Answer

I would not bring my 4 yo son simply bc I had a terrible time managing the pain with him. I did a LOT of screaming and gasping. He was a cervadil/pitocin induction, so there was that.... I'm hoping it's better this time around, but I would feel stressed if I scared my boy.

If you've done it before and you already know how you may react to natural labor, and you're comfortable, go for it. I know it isn't right for me and my son though.

Answer

Our birthing center has a separate room with a TV and couches where kids usually camp out. They even have some books and toys in another room. It would give the option to be there but not in the room for delivery if that bothers you or her.

I would say if she is a chance she is going to be there that you do need to prepare her. Or your mom does. Go over the mechanics of birth ect.

I was at all my mother's births but she always explained everything before so we wouldn't be frightened. I can't imagine it would be terrifying if you were prepped properly.

Four year old sister at delivery?

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