A lot of apprehensions often accompany the excitement of giving birth. The mom-to-be might think, how will this baby come out, what will it be like, and will the baby be fine? They may have many different thoughts running through their heads.
Just like childbirth is not a new process and has been happening on this planet longer than you can imagine, these questions and trepidations are not odd either. So, today we have made an effort to ease up some of the concerns of the mommies-to-be by jotting down some things they must know about childbirth.
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You can have the baby at the place of your choice
Some might think giving birth in the hospital is your only option, but it is not. You can have the baby wherever you feel comfortable. If you have a low-risk pregnancy, you might choose home birth, a birthing pool, or a birthing unit. Nothing is ingrained in the stone, so there is always an option to change your mind and decide something different.
However, it is always suggested to look at all the available options and consult with your doctor. They will help you decide according to the risk associated with your pregnancy. Suppose you are going through a risky pregnancy/delivery. In that case, you will need a team of expert doctors to help you if anything goes wrong. In a risky delivery, the chances of birth injury increase exponentially, so you need your doctor’s assistance. So, a hospital is a better choice.
However, if you have a complicated pregnancy but your doctor fails to guide you properly, resulting in birth injury such as Erb’s palsy. Don’t hesitate to rush to a birth injury or an erbs palsy lawyer for legal help. Your doctor is responsible for informing you of your alternatives for childbirth and the possibility of birth trauma. Failing to do that means medical negligence on their part, which is a punishable crime; therefore, legal help is mandatory.
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It’s hard to predict what will exactly happen
Even though you want to know what will happen and how you will give birth, it is still difficult to predict. And since you don’t have a crystal ball, the best you can do is to prepare yourself and always stay positive. Your negativity will make you anxious, which is not good for you or your baby.
If there is a specific aspect of childbirth you or your partner are most anxious about— like the pain, stages of childbirth, etc. — get some awareness about this matter. Talk to your doctor, friends, or sisters who have given birth. Additionally, a great source of information is the Internet.
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No two childbirths are the same
Reading stuff about your apprehensions and talking to your doctor are highly recommended. But simultaneously, you must understand that no two births are the same. Listen to others’ stories, but don’t picture yourself in the exact situation because you never know what might happen in the last few days of your pregnancy.
Also, pay attention to others’ stories for as long as you feel inspired, and they help you prepare for every kind of scenario. But, if these stories stress you, it is okay to ask people to save their stories until the baby is born. Every childbirth is unique; try to live through your experience to the fullest!
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It is okay to be nervous
It is okay if you feel scared about childbirth and the whole process! It is alright to feel edgy when things are not in your control. Besides, no one expects you not to feel scared; after all, it is the most challenging period of your life. However, your approach and perception of childbirth can ease this process.
For instance, some hypnobirthing books try to make you perceive childbirth contractions as sensations, not pain. Experiencing each contraction means moving a step closer to seeing your baby for the first time. By thinking this way, you might be able to divert your mind into thinking about the joy of meeting your child.
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You will know when the time comes
The question looming on the mind of every first-time mum is, “how do you know when it is time for labor?” The easiest answer is you WILL know about it! During the days leading to your child’s birth, you might feel more tired with an increased lower tummy and lower back pain.
Therefore, you will understand that the time is close. Call your midwife or doctor and chat with them if something seems off. Don’t feel nervous when ringing them— it is their job, and they will respond even if it is not the time yet.
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You’ll remain in the delivery room for some time after giving birth
After delivery, you won’t be sent to your house right away. The standard procedure is to keep the mother and the baby under observation for a few hours. During this time, the doctor will monitor your baby and conduct various body screenings to ensure everything is fine. You might also be encouraged to breastfeed your baby right away.
If doctors see that your baby needs additional care, it may happen in a room or a separate area. In some situations, babies are kept in the neonatal intensive care unit for higher-level care. However, if everything is okay, the hospital must still have a meeting with a pediatrician and obstetrician before you leave.
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You will still have a belly for a while
Childbirth reduces the size of your belly, but if you think your favorite clothes will fit right after childbirth and your body will be just like it was before, it will not happen! It might take 2-3 months before you fit in regular-size clothes—it takes some time for your uterus to shrink to its normal pre-pregnancy size.
Besides, your body goes through tremendous changes during pregnancy. So, it is better to take it slow and not overthink your body size— at least for the first few months. After that, you can gradually transition to a physical activity regime and get your old self back.
Conclusion
There is a lot that you might be worried about during childbirth. So many things can get complicated and go wrong. But a lot can go right too! Apart from specific facts about childbirth— like pain and contractions, etc. — your positive perception of this process can make a lot of difference. Talk to your care provider about your apprehensions. But as much as possible, keep your thinking optimistic.
