Not everyone faces childbirth full of enthusiasm and excitement, in fact, for many expectant mums, it can be extremely daunting and scary.

 

And while many people will tell you that there is nothing to fear and that plenty of women before you have done it, often, these sayings can make you feel like you need to hide your fear, rather than discuss it.

 

If you are feeling a little nervous, the following tips will hopefully help you feel better:

 

1. Acknowledge the fear

Hiding your fear from others is just going to intensify it. If you are a little worried or apprehensive, do talk to your midwife about your fears. Feeling afraid does not make you a bad mother, in fact, acknowledging your fear makes you a brave one.

 

2. Question your fear

It’s completely understandable to be afraid, particularly if this is your first pregnancy or you have experienced a complicated delivery in the past, so try to understand your fear. Sit down with someone you trust and be open and honest about what you are saying – this can help you understand where your fear is coming from.

 

 

3. Create a birth plan

Often the fear of not being in control can cause us to worry and feel anxious, so create a birth plan that you feel comfortable and secure with.

 

4. Breathe deeply

When you start to feel overwhelmed by your anxiety, settle your nerves by breathing - in through your nose and out through your mouth – and slowly count back from ten.

 

5. Knowledge is key

Most of our fear stems from the unknown so get clued up on what is expected to happen during labour – from the pain to the afterbirth knowledge is vital to settling any fears. Talk to your midwife, search online and even have a natter with family and friends who have had children - the more you know, the better you will feel.

 

6. Avoid scary stories

We all know that labour complications can and do happen, and being prepared for them is certainly helpful, but that doesn’t mean you need to surround yourself with negative and frightening stories. Avoid reading about labours gone wrong or listening to people’s bad experiences. Until your fears have subsided a little, these are the last things you will want to hear. 

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