Parents & Family / Question
Published: November 4, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm 15 years old and I'm living with my parents and my 11-year-old brother. My mom is expecting a baby boy in some 2 weeks but the problem is that my dad is currently working abroad for the next 3 months. He would love to be at my brother's birth but he can't. Before he left he said that he would like me to be with my mom at my brothers birth. My mom said she would like me to be there too. She is going to give birth at home because a very good friend of hers is a midwife. The midwife said I was likely to be a big help for my mom. We talked about the birth. I was with her when she examined my mom and she showed me things that I can do. And yet I'm still worried about being the only member of our family that is with my mom. I am really looking forward to my baby brother but can I give my mom enough support? Actually this would be my dad's role.
Signed: Enough Support For Brother's Birth
Dear Enough Support For Brother's Birth,
You should be very proud that you want to take such an active role in your brother's birth. It is a big responsibility, but it seems like you, your mom, your dad, and your mom's friend all have confidence in your ability to give your mom all the support she might need, and you should, too! It is natural to be a little bit scared, but rest assured that there are many things that you are going to be able to do for your mom - one of the most important aspects of childbirth is having someone to hold her hand and reassure her that she is doing a good job. You will be able to do other things, too, like wiping your mom's forehead and helping the midwife get the equipment she might need. Maybe your little brother can help with some simple tasks during the birth, if he wants to be a part of this, too.
Your mom and dad are lucky to have such a dedicated and giving child to help fill in your dad's absence. They must be very proud of you, and for good reason! Good luck!
Signed: TeenHealthFX
A national study of women ages 15-44 found that women were almost twice as likely to receive contraceptive services rather than STD services.
