It’s completely normal to be afraid of giving birth, especially if it’s your first time. With all the movies and news stories, it can make you concerned about the worst. However, many women have had much better experiences than what you may have seen on TV.
For those who had negative experiences, it can be nerve-racking thinking about going through it all again, but each birth experience is different.
While you can’t control many factors during labor and birth, you can prepare and learn as much as you can and take a few actions to ease your mind. Keep reading for more information.
You can also schedule an appointment at Oasis Resource Center in Troy, Missouri, for free and confidential support and pregnancy services. We’ll talk with you in a safe space.
Prepare Physically with Exercise
Exercising throughout pregnancy can improve outcomes for you, your labor, and your baby.
You can also do specific pregnancy stretches and exercises to target the muscles your body will be using, such as your pelvic floor. Many specialized classes and books can help with this type of preparation.
Walking at term for a low-risk pregnancy can also help bring on labor naturally.
Prepare Mentally
If it’s your first time giving birth, then you may also struggle with fear of the unknown. Educate yourself on what’s happening during the birth process and learn the stages of labor. You can also take classes on breathing techniques, such as Lamaze or the Bradley Method.
Reading a book like What to Expect When You’re Expecting can also help prepare your mind and demystify what may happen.
Choose an Excellent Care Team
Women can choose to give birth at a hospital, a birth center, or at home. Choose a care team that you know will take excellent care of you, such as an OB group or midwife that comes recommended by other women. Make sure you can trust whoever you pick to make the best medical decisions so you can lean on them during delivery day.
There are so many elements and factors that are out of your control (positioning of the baby, whether your water breaks naturally, etc.), but your care team will monitor you and make decisions to protect you and your baby.
Based on where you have your baby, you will also want to consider available pain management methods and what you would be comfortable with pursuing.
You Are Stronger Than You Realize
Women have been giving birth since the beginning of time. You have what it takes to give birth, and your body knows what to do.
While this experience can be nerve-racking, keep the end goal in mind. If you want to choose parenting or adoption, giving birth is a part of these choices.
You’re not alone. Visit Oasis Resource Center to talk through your options and receive early pregnancy services. We’re here to be an encouraging resource for you.
