Prenatals for Repeat Clients

[DL]

For those of you who have had repeat clients:

Do you typically cover the same topics in prenatals as you did with them the first time around?

If not, was it more like a review of what you covered with them last time?

Does how long or how soon since the last baby was born have any bearing on what you cover and how?

[MIA-D]

I haven't had a repeat client yet - except my sister and there is no telling her anything - sheesh. I would see what they need from you. Review of a birth plan, what they felt worked, what they would like to try different. Do you have any new information that you have learned that could help them out.

These are some good questions to think about.

Heather

[empowering birth]

Were you reading my mind Lori? I too just received my first repeat client and we are both so excited!! She is not due until November, but I was just wondering the exact same thing. Thanks for asking !!

[doula Michele]

I have had a few repeat clients.
We get together and go over what was good last time and what wasn't...and things they would like to do differently.
Sometimes my second time moms need more reassurance than they did the first time, because they know what is coming. The first time, they really did not know what they were in for.
It totally depends on the mom I think. I had one who called me, told me she was pg again, wanted me there for sure....and I rarely heard from her till she was in labour. She had an epi the first time, and knew she wanted it again.

Another mom was very needy the second time, and it seems she totally forgot the first birth, and kept asking me the silliest questions, like ' what should I wear in the shower at the hospital?"..... umm whatever you want. She kept looking for a magic cure for labour, and even insisted on going to prenatal classes again, in case they would tell her something I didn't. She asked me to go with her, and when they were done, she says 'well that was a waste of money, it was all the same stuff you told me".

So each mom is unique with what she wants to learn about the second time around.

[mamaof5]

I have had a few repeats (and a few more upcoming!) and one of the things that I make sure I go over is sibling preparation. I find that most of the questions mom asks about is related to her 1st child accepting the 2nd, how they will have time for them both, what to do to prepare them for the new baby, etc.
I also make sure we create a new birth plan....keeping what worked, changing what didn't. Sometimes women are more open the 2nd time round to new information and question the "routine procedures" and are looking for alternatives.
hth
Teri