V. wrote:
Just to anticipate your next question , on the advice of several nurse
friends, I also intend to do an enema at home prior to going to the
hospital. I figure it can't really hurt and might make me less self
conscious about pushing. (although realistically it might make no
difference whatsoever on the "poop during pushing" issue...just give me a
false sense of security)

Good thing you are you considering this now, because trust me, once you
are in labour, this will be the furtherest thing from your mind. ;-)

However, I recall once my contractions started, I did spend some time in
the bathroom. I believe that was nature's way of helping...

Jacqueline