This is the part that most women dread, as it is a mixture of fear and anticipation, there are so many unknowns. It is
perfectly natural to be scared; most mothers are no matter how many children they have had or what they lead you to believe.
The good thing is that most mothers say that after the child is born all the memories of the labour quickly fade and many
can remember very little as the fears are replaced with overwhelming joy. The best way to prepare yourself is to get as much
information as possible about what to expect, decide what type of birth you wish to have and make a birthing plan.
Try to attend antenatal classes with your birthing partner, they will help to prepare you both. Every labour and birth
is different as it is a personal experience so do not expect the labour or birth to be exactly as you imagine them, you have
to be flexible and adapt to the situation and try to listen to and take medical advice.
Tips for giving birth, our mums suggest the following
- Some mums suggest having a bikini wax before you give birth as it is less uncomfortable than being shaved if it is
necessary
- Try not to be too upset if you have to change your birth plan
- Shout if you want to! Stuff what anyone else thinks if it helps do it
- Take a hair band to use during the contractions, it keeps your hair out of your eyes
- Take a huge bottle of water, having a cool drink on hand is a great help
- Keep an open mind about pain relief, you don't know how you will feel until it happens
- In the early stages try a shower or a bath it helps to soothe your muscles
- Listen to your midwife, you may not like her whilst you are giving birth but she has great experience of delivering babies
and you will love her once the baby is born
If you have any questions about the birthing process speak to a medical professional.
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