1. Empathy Belly Lab This voluntary activity simulates the physical changes and discomforts associated with full term pregnancy.

2. About the Empathy Belly… • It was originally created so that men could understand or “empathize” with the symptoms experienced by their pregnant partners. It continues to be used by adults in parenting and prenatal classes and by students in the high school classroom.

3. As we have studied… In the 9th Month • Discomforts include: low back ache, frequent urination, leg cramps, shortness of breath, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, balance issues, indigestion, etc. • False labor pains may be experienced. • Average weight gain of 25-35 pounds.

4. Empathy Belly…The 411 The Volunteer will experience the physical changes of full term pregnancy: 1. Total weight gain of ~30 pounds.2. Continuous pressure on the abdomen and internal organs.3. Postural changes 4. “Fetal kicking” created by a suspended internal weight.5. Shortness of breath, increased body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure.6. Increased perspiration and fatigue. Pressure on the bladder, with increased sense of urgency and frequency of urination.7. Changes in self-image and physical abilities

5. Today’s Lab • Four volunteers wear the Empathy Belly in class and participate in the following activities: • Examine physical changes (mirror and scales) • 4-5 minutes of low impact exercise • Practice sitting/ moving in classroom/ removing shoes/ picking items up from floor/etc. • Lie on blanket on the floor to rest • Enjoy a healthy snack • Reflection on lab experience.

6. Remember… • Be respectful of others… no pictures without permission. • Be respectful of resources we are using in this lab. Any horseplay will result in being asked to immediately remove Empathy Belly and your grade will be penalized. • Students with signed permission slips will rotate through lab later this week. Please continue working on Accordion Project or quietly observe lab activities.