Conquering Fear of Childbirth

July 12th, 2011 admin

Most first time moms are absolutely petrified of labor. I’ve even heard some women that don’t have any children, share that they didn’t want kids because they were afraid of the pain that labor would bring.  Heck, moms that have been in labor before are sometimes scared too of the pain that labor will bring!   Lots of mamas don’t even think about labor until they start creeping into that third trimester and then, they just want that baby out of there!

Image courtesy of Eric Russell via flickr

According to Dr and Mrs. Sears in The Birth Book, woman who are more fearful at birth can have trouble with their labor progressing, are more susceptible to a cesarean section, and have labors that are more painful.  

Typically, labors where mama is less stressed and more relaxed labor can actually be pleasant.  Of course, that doesn’t mean your birth would be completely painless, but it can make it quite bearable, satisfying, and sometimes even enjoyable as mama brings her little one into the world.

The truth is that if you are more relaxed and less stressed the chances of you having and enjoyable birth are really rather high.

Here are a few things to get yourself ready for going into labor:

1. Remember, each contraction you have is one closer to your baby being right there with you. These contractions are pushing your baby out.  Each time you have a labor contraction it is closer to the end.  Keep that in mind when you begin contractions, they will be relieved relatively soon, and you’ll have a sweet precious blessing right there with you.

2. According to studies women who have birth attendants or support people succeed in the birth they wan to have.  Hire a doula, or other support person to make your labor experience better.  These ladies will often save you money because you will most likely spend less on your birth.  Chances are if you have a support system in place you will be not need medical intervention as much and these support people will pay for themselves. These support people are not only helpful physically relaxing you with back rubs and so on, but they are also helpful with emotional support.

3. Research, research, research.  Write a birth plan.  Know what you want in your birth and communicate with your doctor, midwife, doula and other people involved.  Read books on birth.  Just because the in thing to do is to get a epidural it doesn’t mean that it is for you.  There are lots of options, and you want a satisfying birth.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  If you aren’t sure of something or don’t agree with your doctor or midwife be sure to ask questions.  And, if they don’t give you sufficient answers make sure you read up on the subject.  There are often many more options than you might think when it comes to birth.

5. Enjoy birth and don’t be intimidated by it.  Always remember that millions of moms past have made it through successfully!  You are no different.  You have nothing to worry about.  Ask around for other moms that have enjoyed their birth experience.  Ask them what they liked about it and what they would change. Make sure you ask around to get a range of positive opinions and answers.  Don’t allow any negative thoughts to enter your head.

6. Make sure you change positions.  The typical back laying position is not helpful for progressing labor, nor is it helpful to relieve any tension or pain.  Let your body be your guide and if you are uncomfortable move.  If your pregnancy is low risk ask the nurses and doctors if you can take the monitors off.  In a low risk pregnancy a doctor should have no problem letting you walk the floors or move so that you are more comfortable.  Gravity does help when progressing so try to stay upright as much as possible.

7. Don’t forget to RELAX!  Listen to relaxing music or other brainstorm other ways that normally help you relax and implement them in your hospital or home experience.

Anything else that any fear conquering tips that others can add?  Can I answer any questions?  Blessings on your birth!  Enjoy it and your little one!