Product: Laugh and Learn About Childbirth - Lamaze and Beyond (2003)
Rating: 4.0
Some important omissions
I watched the 2003 edition in preparation for the birth of my first child and have just watched the 2007 edition in preparation for the next baby's arrival.I highly recommend either or both DVD's but there are in my opinion a couple of important omissions in the 2007 versions as compared to the 2003 but also some improvements.Improvements:Sheri's humor has improved:DAudience/students are easier to identify with (more current).Generally a bit clearer explanations.Better explanation of c-section especially the recovery process.Advice for second time moms.More thorough explanation of the side effects of an epidural.Omissions/cons in 2007 version:Actual breathing techniques aren't as thoroughly explained.How to push/deliver a baby is completely missing.Judgmental towards the need for an epidural.One-sided (pro) information on cord blood banking.With the information from the 2003 DVD (and good genes) I was able to have a natural and fairly quick birth (about 25 minutes of pushing). I recommended the DVD to my best friend who had her first baby a few months later. She had to have pitocin, then an epidural, but with the info from the DVD (on how to push when you can't feel anything), still felt she had an easy birth (12 minutes of pushing). Neither of us took any classes but obviously had prenatal care where we could ask any questions that arose.Though the 2003 version is duller to watch I'd actually recommend it over the 2007 version. 2003 gives you the knowledge you need for a natural birth, and offers support and advice on how to transition from a natural birth process to one with an epidural. After having watched the 2007 version I'll have to go back to the 2003 version to refresh the breathing and pushing techniques.Good luck!