Births in another country

When I compare my birthing experience with what Germany provides there are some similarities.  I received a pamphlet on what to expect while I was pregnant similar to mutterpass.  However, I did not receive any holistic medicine.  I was considered high risk and had to see a doctor.  I received a wealth of information from my doctor and the facility.  Information was readily available to patients daily.  I was surprised that pregnant women in Germany only receive 12 visits.  I remember my appointments were monthly then every two weeks.  Towards the end of my pregnancy I began to go to my doctor every week.  After the C-section I stayed in the hospital for 48 hours.  My son and I were discharged the following morning.  In the U.S. women typically go home after the first day of a natural delivery.  I was surprised at how long women and their babies get to stay in the hospital after natural or C-section delivery.  

I chose to share the experience of having my first son because I had in my mind that I would have a typical delivery.  As I found out it was not typical at all.  When I reflected on my experience I was happy that I had a son but yearned to have a vaginal birth someday.  I wanted to experience a vaginal birth.  I was also curious to see how women experienced deliveries is other countries.  I was surprised that Germany had a lot of similarities.   I wish that I would have been more open minded to alternative experiences when I had my first son.  Thankfully I knew to arrive at the hospital open to whatever came my way with my second delivery.