Re: TERRIFIED of giving birth!!!

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I had some fears with my first baby as well. Labor won't hit you hard and fast right away. It is something that generally builds up gradually, so you won't be screaming in pain as soon as labor begins. You'll be able to work yourself up to the harder contractions, until you just feel the urge to push -- and pushing that baby out will make you feel better.

Have you tried taking lamaze or bradley? Even a childbirth education class to inform you as to what types of medications or natural methods are available for childbirth are extremely helpful. I found a nice soak in a warm bath extremely relaxing before going to the hospital. (So relaxing that I was 7cm dilated by the time I arrived at the hospital.) Education is really helpful when you're going through something you haven't experienced before.

A helpful labor partner is also important. Consider a doula that may help you relax, or get your partner educated on how to help you during labor.

Is your doctor aware of your fears? They may have ways of helping you to better relax, too.

Best wishes!

--
Jennifer

At Sun, 31 Aug 2003, anonymous@obgyn.net wrote:
>
>Logically I know everything will probably be fine.  I know women VERY
>rarely die during childbirth these days.  I haven't had any
>complications to indicate a problem.  I've been told a half a million
>things to try to help me relax.  I know labor will be more difficult if
>I can't relax and yet...  I can't! I just cannot convince myself my
>approaching labor isn't my impending death.  No one realizes the terror
>I'm going through that increases day by day.  I feel this cold paralysis
>of fear tightening around me like a noose.  I've honestly thought it'd
>be better if they gave me a C-section because I know myself well enough
>to know when labor does hit, I'll be screaming in panic, but the
>doctor's of course won't do that for no good reason.  Does anyone have
>ANY advice that might help? I've thought maybe there might some
>anti-fear medications out there? Or maybe a doctor who is willing to
>schedule a C-section without just cause? I know that sounds bad but I'm
>frantic.

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