An SHTF scenario may not be the best time to bring a new baby into the world. But it’s going to happen. Without consistent access to contraception, pregnancy rates will likely increase. Someone you know will get pregnant when the SHTF, especially if it’s a long-lasting event.
While the idea of helping someone through pregnancy and childbirth may be frightening, remember this:
Pregnancy is a natural process. Women have been birthing babies since the beginning of time. A woman’s body is truly remarkable in its ability to grow another human.
Much common-sense wisdom about pregnancy and childbirth has been lost in today’s ultra-medical culture. Community midwives have been replaced with high-tech hospitals. Basic knowledge about the ins and outs of pregnancy has been turned over to medical professionals.
Somewhere along the way, pregnancy has become a medical emergency. And with a sky-rocketing cesarean rate, it’s no wonder people are terrified of being pregnant in an SHTF scenario.
If no doctors are available, it’s essential to be prepared. Your knowledge could make a world of difference.
Quick Pregnancy Overview
There’s no need for birds and the bees lesson here. I’m operating under the assumption that everyone reading this post knows where babies come from. But, it’s crucial to have a basic understanding of what comes next.
Traditionally, due dates are calculated based on the last menstrual cycle. Take this date and subtract three months. Then add seven days. This projects a due date that is 40 weeks away.
However, typical pregnancies last from 38-42 weeks. Very few babies come precisely when they’re “due.”
Pregnancy is broken into three trimesters. Miscarriage is most likely during the first trimester. About ten percent of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage, so this may be something you experience as well.
A woman’s uterus grows with the baby. By the time she is twenty weeks pregnant, the top of the uterus is typically even with the belly button. After that, it grows about an inch each week. You can use this measurement to get a rough due date if you are unsure of her last menstrual cycle.
Labor begins when it’s time for the baby to enter the world. Childbirth has three distinct stages: labor, pushing/delivery, and the delivery of the placenta. The labor stage breaks down into early, active, and transition. This corresponds with dilation.
The cervix thins and dilates, preparing for birth. When it’s dilated to 10 centimeters, it’s time for the pushing phase to begin.
Shortly after the birth of the baby, the placenta gets pushed out. It’s important to check this over and ensure there aren’t any pieces remaining inside.
Labor is complete after this stage. Then you can all switch gears and focus on recovery.
Prepping with Pregnancy in Mind
Now that you’ve had a quick overview, it’s time to dive into some practical basics. What can you do to be prepared for a pregnancy in a crisis?