The difference between the pregnancy and delivery of babies several decades ago and present day create a list that is somewhat extensive. Here are only a few that comes to mind:
First, there were no tests that you could purchase in the pharmacy but only the test given by your doctor. This test could only be done between the second and third month and you had to wait for the doctor's report. The doctor would call you on your land line because, of course, no cell phones. For the possible new parents, this was a lifetime even though it was only a few days.
Second, the use of ultrasound to determine birth defects and sex of the baby was a device of the future. This invention in my opinion has become a revolutionary breakthrough for pregnancy and the safety of the baby and/or mother.
Third, the birth of the baby was a very private affair that was done in a delivery room that consisted of a bed, blanket , sink and a chair for the father. This bed was not movable so you laid flat on your back and the birth of the baby was many hours away for most of us.
Fourth, the mysteries behind the birth of a child were a secret even to the potential mother. The term "you will know when it is time to go to the hospital for the delivery" was the cliché phrase that the doctor would tell you when you asked how you would be able to identify the pain as labor. There were no discussions with your other children and small children under the age of 13 were not even allowed in the hospital. Now they are allowed in any part of the hospital and can stand next to the mother during birth so they can experience the whole process. I am not sure that I agree with that new rule – call me old fashioned.
Fifth, while I was ready to take on the world to have my baby boy, my nurse was insistent that I be comfortable so therefore gave me a 'hypo' (not exactly sure what it was but it was great!). The idea of natural childbirth was the exception not the norm in most birthing decisions. "Give me drugs" was a phrase heard by doctors in delivery rooms around the world then. The drug that was given moments before the actual birth of my son was called a ‘saddle block' but the actual name was an epidural. This drug was considered to be painful and very dangerous due to the placement in the spine.
Lastly, the nesting stage was the same then and now. You still buy the crib, mattress, cloth diapers, receiving blankets, quilts, diaper pins, diaper bags, diaper rash cream, crib sheets , bottles and of course the flannel gowns. You arrange the room and wash all the baby clothes in baby soap so they are all ready for the homecoming.
The differences are great, some good – some bad, but the end result is still the same. You see that little baby girl or baby boy and all the pain of the day is forgotten. When you hear that little cry, you share the happiness that that little child is experiencing because you have just shared the most devastating hours of both of your lives and now it is OK to cry together. After he/she is swaddled and handed to you in that soft receiving blanket, your life will now be changed forever and it is great. Bottom line, there are no difference between babies then and now—just the procedures and terminology – they are still just bundles of joy.
