L & D

I had to go to OB triage the other day because I was incredibly ill with whatever horrible virus has been circulating, and I just needed to see a doctor (or, in this case, a nurse midwife - just as good, if not better). All the rooms were full, so I had to wait in the waiting area, which is between OB triage and the Labor & Delivery unit - L&D.

I watched all the people in the waiting room, they were there waiting for new grandchildren or brothers, or sisters, or nieces, nephews, etc. They were patient and happy. One older gentleman and his wife looked a bit concerned. I saw them wheel a woman and her brand new bundle out of L&D to the elevator that takes you down to the Mother/Baby unit. She looked exhausted and happy.

I started to feel sad that I'm not going to ever go into an L&D unit again as a patient. Sad, and at the same time, totally relieved. But still there was a sadness I can't deny. I did like being pregnant for 6 of the 10 months, but I am also really happy to be not pregnant. So much ambivalence!

So the child-bearing part of my life is done, and I'm working for the next 20-odd years on the child-rearing part.