Fear of unknown, along with stories shared by other moms usually stress out most birthmothers as they get closer to their due date. There are some things related to delivery and labor that birthmothers might be nervous about.
1. A Painful Labor
This is usually a top fear. The truth is that contractions do hurt, but there are many options for managing that pain, such as an epidural, pain medication, changing positions, and using a birthing tub. Imagining all that pain is scary, but you need to remember that your body was made to do this, including the pain and all. No matter what birthing method you choose, make sure to research every option first so you know what to expect and you're prepared to make decisions quickly when necessary.
2. A Long Labor
The average first-time labor lasts 18 hours on average. There are multiple stages of labor and the length of each stage is different for every woman. In an early labor, depending on whether you decided to take medication, you may have time to rest and prepare for the second stage of active labor. Be sure to bring with you things you can do to pass the time or distract yourself during the early stage of labor, like books, magazines, or a tablet.
3. Having Your Baby in the Car
There are very few women whose labor progresses so quickly that they don't make it to the hospital. Labor, especially a first-time labor, lasts many hours, and the chances of this happening to you are pretty slim. If preparing yourself for the possibility of this happening will help ease your fears, you can pack a few extra supplies in your hospital bag to have on hand. Click here for some more helpful tips for if you happen to find yourself in this situation.
4. Having a C-section
A C-section is always a possibility for any women giving birth, whether it’s on your birth plan or not. More than 32 percent of births are done this way for various reasons. If you want to leave a C-section as a last resort, be sure to talk to your doctor about this. If your doctor determines you need a c-section after all, try your best not to worry. Every hospital is well-equipped and ready to perform the procedure and take good care of you.
5. Delivery Complications
This fear is definitely a very legitimate one for every woman giving birth. However, the majority of the things that can go wrong will probably be detected while you’re still pregnant. While there are some complications that can present themselves during labor and delivery, just keep in mind that you will be surrounded by a team of expert healthcare professionals whose job is to keep you and your baby safe and healthy.
6. Nervous about the Adoption
It’s normal to feel nervous about placing your child for an adoption after he or she is born. Seek support in your friends, family members, counselor, social worker, or someone else you trust. Keep reminding yourself of the reasons you made an adoption plan in the first place. It's also very helpful to take care as many things as possible with the adoptive parents and your adoption professional beforehand, so you’ll feel less stressful and emotional when this moment comes.
If there's ever anything you need, never hesitate to contact us, day or night. Our adoption specialists are always standing by to take your call. Best of luck to you — we know you can do it!
