In this article:
Common Fears
Making it to the hospital on time
Many women are concerned that they will give birth in a lift, a cab or on the side of the road. Movies and television have led us to believe that labour is a fast-paced process and that these risky situations are normal. And, while not impossible, it is also uncommon.According to Dr. Rani Koppula, DGO at MS General Surgery, Gleneagles Hospitals, active labour might take anywhere from four to eight hours. While this may not sound like good news, statistics show that your odds of giving birth while on the way to the hospital are small.
Furthermore, there will be plenty of warning indications that it is time to go to the hospital even before the baby begins to make its way down the delivery canal. These could include regular and uncomfortable contractions or having your water burst. Even if your labour is going quickly, monitoring your contractions will give you an idea of how long you have until the baby arrives. Once you're in labour, consult with your provider to determine when you should go to the hospital. They'll ask you questions about the character of your labour and assess how well you're managing with each contraction.
A little preparation can also help to alleviate your anxieties. This involves determining how far the hospital is, checking the weather each day as you approach your due date, confirming your mode of transportation, and finalising care arrangements for older children.
Unable to handle the pain
It's no secret that labour may be extremely unpleasant. Imagining all that suffering in advance can be frightening. However, reminding yourself that your body was designed to accomplish this can help. When labour is in full stride, your endorphins will kick in, and your body will take control and do what it needs to do. Of course, if the pain becomes unbearable and labour lasts longer than intended, experts recommend getting an epidural or using other pain management options. Some hospitals and birthing centres also include water tubs for labour and delivery, which can aid in reducing pain intensity. Whatever birthing method you choose, make sure you consider all the alternatives first. Some women have a high pain tolerance and can work through pain, while others can become completely immobilised by pain and overcome with anxiety or tension because of it. While both of these reactions are perfectly natural, it's critical to recognise and plan for how labour pain may affect you.
Having a C-section
The reality is that, whether or not it is part of your birth plan, you should be prepared for the potential of a C-section. Providers and hospitals live under the credo of 'expect the unexpected’. C-sections may have some drawbacks, such as a longer recovery time, stomach pain, soreness, and a higher hospital bill, but the ultimate goal is to keep you and your baby safe and healthy. Furthermore, be aware that the individuals conducting these have undergone extensive training. Rather than avoiding the possibility, speak with your physician early about how they manage crises during childbirth.And if you're still feeling depressed about the likelihood of a C-section, understand that you're not alone.
Dying
Unfortunately, fatalities during childbirth continue to occur. Experts say that the best approach to overcome this worry is to attend all of your prenatal appointments, keep a healthy lifestyle, and discuss any underlying health issues or risk factors with your provider. However, keep in mind that the dread of the unknown may not be overcome until you've crossed over. It is acceptable to be afraid, but modern healthcare is intended to prevent catastrophic outcomes such as maternal death. Pooping during childbirth
Pooping while five different people are peering between your legs sounds mortifying, yet it happens during childbirth. There'll be so much going on down there that a small poop will be the least of your concerns. Between the agony, the pressure, the cheering squad of healthcare experts, and the fact that you're passing a baby through your body, delivering anything other than your new little bundle won't be at the top of your mind—or your providers'.It's a common occurrence and medical professionals are accustomed to it. Try not to focus on it during labour; your healthcare team is there to support you and will handle it discreetly.
Plus, an unexpected bonus: may aid in the baby's delivery. Constipation is typical during pregnancy, but hard stool in the colon can impede the descent of the baby through the birth canal. If you are constipated and in labour, your provider may suggest an enema to help you poop. It is a good thing and gives the OB team a clue that delivery might be close.
Getting an epidural
Epidural anxieties abound, ranging from the size of the needle to a negative reaction to not having an unmedicated birth. The good news is that epidurals are administered by highly trained anaesthesiologists and certified nurse anaesthetists. While there have been stories of women having adverse responses to epidurals, this is not typical. and safe. The instances of untoward side effects or complications are extremely rare, and emergencies—if they arise—are handled immediately.If you're concerned about the size of the needle, rest assured that you won't see it because it will go into your back. And, while you may feel a slight squeeze, it will most likely pale in contrast to any labour sensations you are experiencing. If you are concerned, inform your provider in advance so that they can make you as comfortable and tranquil as possible.
Regarding the prospect of not having an unmedicated birth, keep in mind that labour pains will be unlike anything you've ever felt before. Furthermore, because labour can become more painful as it develops, there is no way to predict how it will affect you and your pain threshold. If you do get an epidural, know that it says nothing about your ability or strength. A woman should not feel in any way belittled, minimised or weak because she opts for an epidural. There are no untoward outcomes in a baby, and it's a way to empower women by re-energising them to complete the birth process.
On the other hand, some women are concerned that they will not have enough time to have an epidural and will be forced to give birth without pain relief.
Vaginal tearing and episiotomy
Rest assured that while some tearing is unavoidable while delivering vaginally, it is not irreversible. Providers employ specific manoeuvres during the actual delivery process to help minimise tension on delicate vaginal tissues, but even the most skilled practitioner often cannot avoid some small lacerations. These small tears can develop in the vagina, labia, or perineum, and most will not require stitches to heal. If any do, they should heal within a few days or weeks of delivery. Furthermore, while there are no sure solutions, there are strategies to reduce vaginal tears. Perineal massage during pregnancy and practising relaxation techniques during labour can help reduce the risk of severe tearing.Unfollowed birth plans
Whether your birth plan is written down, you should be prepared in case it fails. Ultimately, birth plans are just that: plans. Because there is so much that could happen on delivery day, it's critical to be adaptable and prepare yourself from the start because not everything will go as planned. Hospitals have fairly regulated processes and policies, particularly those about labour and delivery. Although most OB doctors try to accommodate requests, it is not always possible or safe, especially in an emergency. Instead, focus on the eventual goal. A safe childbirth for you and your baby. Trust your healthcare team to make decisions in your best interest.This is why it's critical to talk with your provider about birth expectations and practices early on to ensure you're on the same page, feel comfortable, and have a level of confidence. A woman or couple needs to develop a relationship with their provider and have a strong sense of trust in their abilities, especially to make life-saving decisions or act quickly.
Having long labour
Of course, while it may feel like forever, doctors can assure you that labour will not take forever. Remember that the discomfort will most likely not be persistent for the entire period. Barring any exceptional conditions, your discomfort will become slightly less strong between contractions, allowing you to receive relief at regular intervals. Plus, pain management techniques can be beneficial, so if you're interested in attempting them, make sure you research each one several months before the big day.Unfortunately, labour is unique to each individual—and it can take some time. Accept that your baby will arrive when they are ready, just as with so many other aspects of parenthood.
Delivery complications
Childbirth involves many moving parts, and a plethora of variables can come into play and cause something to go wrong or just off course—such as the baby turning into a breech position or not having strong enough contractions to progress the baby along in the canal. Many of these variables may lead to a necessary C-section, but most hospitals and birth centres are equipped to handle crises in ways that promote positive outcomes. Furthermore, the majority of these characteristics will most certainly be recognised during pregnancy, leaving less space for surprise than you might expect. For example, in the weeks leading up to labour, your doctor will check the baby's positioning, making sudden alterations in movement (such as a head-down baby becoming breech) far less likely. Communicate openly with your provider about any concerns you have, and trust in their expertise to provide the necessary care.Going home with the wrong newborn
Many new parents are concerned about returning home with the wrong newborn, but experts believe this is extremely unusual for a variety of reasons, the most important of which is that baby and mother have an inherent relationship and recognition of one another. Furthermore, hospital workers are cautious to place identifying bands on the newborn and both sets of parents—and rigorously verify them whenever the baby departs or is returned to a parent. Dropping baby
Newborns are small, damp, and slippery, so, understandably, some new mothers are concerned about the infant being dropped or mishandled. Experts mention that after the baby is born, they will spread out a lot of blankets and curtains to keep them dry and prevent them from slipping. Of course, this may not alleviate your concerns about caring for your baby at home during showers and nappy changes in the first few weeks. But time will help to relieve such anxieties. You will be a professional in no time.Not being good parents
While this anxiety is not directly related to labour, the great majority of first-time pregnant parents are concerned about not getting it right every time. Be kind to yourself—you are learning right alongside the baby.Childbirth is a transforming experience, and it is acceptable to feel a variety of emotions, including fear and worry. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you, keep you informed, and believe in your capacity to manage this journey with courage and strength.
How Can You Overcome Your Fear Of Labour And Feel Better Prepared For Childbirth?
No concern or fear about your pregnancy or delivery is too small. No matter what's on your mind, these tactics might make you feel more supported and ready.- Talk about your worries: Share them with your partner, a trusted family member or friend, and talk about them with your doctor. If you feel that speaking with a mental health professional might be beneficial, ask your provider for a referral. This is especially crucial if you suspect you have tokophobia, which is a serious dread of pregnancy and childbirth.
- Attend a childbirth class: You'll learn what to expect during labour, delivery, and recovery, and how to manage pain. Classes, whether in-person or virtual, can provide an opportunity to connect with other pregnant women. It's a powerful reminder that you're not alone in this situation.
- Say no to the negative: Avoid terrifying news reports, TV shows, or films about childbirth if they make you fearful or anxious.
- Prepare for postpartum support: It's usually a good idea to arrange for support to help with the baby, provide meals, or do housework. This can be especially comforting if you're worried about your postpartum recovery.
FAQs on Common Labour and Delivery Fears
- Is it normal to be afraid about labour and delivery?
Fear of giving birth is fairly normal, especially if this is your first time. Coping with your fear begins with learning about labour and birth so you have a general understanding of what to expect. - What exactly is the serious fear of labour?
Tokophobia is a medical disorder characterised by an extreme fear of pregnancy and childbirth.
