Maybe it’s the pain you’re worried about. Maybe you’ve heard a frightening birth story that you can’t get out of your head. Or perhaps the hardest part is knowing that labor can’t be completely planned in advance.
Fear of childbirth can range from occasional nervousness to intense anxiety. Wherever your fear lies, learning more about labor and building a support plan can make the unknown feel more manageable.
Schedule an appointment with Pregnancy Resources Plus today to learn about pregnancy resources and support available to you. We’re here to help.
Name What’s Driving the Anxiety
“Giving birth scares me” can mean many different things.
Though this may feel daunting, try getting more specific. Are you afraid of contractions? An emergency C-section? Losing control?
Once you identify the part of birth that frightens you most, you have something concrete to address and bring to your healthcare provider.
For example, if pain is your biggest concern, you can ask about pain management options. If you’re worried about complications, ask what your provider watches for during labor and how emergencies are handled.
Learn What Labor Actually Looks Like
Knowing the basic stages of labor can make the experience less mysterious.
Ask your OB/GYN or midwife what typically happens when contractions begin, when you should go to the hospital or birth center, what happens when you arrive, and what you might experience during delivery.
A childbirth class can also introduce you to breathing techniques, labor positions, pain management choices, and common medical procedures.
It’s also crucial to be selective about what you read and watch online. A dramatic birth story may receive more attention, but one person’s experience cannot predict yours.
Make Plans, but Leave Room for Change
A birth plan can help you communicate preferences about pain relief, movement during labor, who you want in the room, and other details.
Think of it as a way to communicate, rather than a script that labor must follow. Your healthcare team may recommend changes based on your health or your baby’s needs.
You can also ask whether your hospital or birth center offers tours. Seeing the rooms and knowing where you’ll check in can remove a few unknowns before labor begins.
Don’t Keep Intense Anxiety to Yourself
If fear about childbirth is keeping you awake, causing panic, interfering with daily activities, or making prenatal appointments difficult, tell your healthcare provider. You may benefit from additional mental health support, and reaching out is a proactive way of taking care of yourself.
Pregnancy Resources Plus can also help you find resources as you prepare for your baby’s arrival. Schedule a free appointment today to learn more about the assistance available during pregnancy.
