The Fear of Giving Birth

Welcoming your baby can be such an exciting time.  But when you have a fear of giving birth it can also be a huge source of stress.

This stress can keep you from enjoying those last weeks of pregnancy.

One of the big fears and common sources of stress surrounding childbirth is the fear of the unknown. There’s no doubt that your labor and birth may take a different path than the one you hoped. One of the most effective ways to overcome the fear of childbirth is education. Learning what to expect.  Becoming educated on the many options available to you can help to demystify the process and can lead to increased confidence.

The second most common fear is how much pain you can expect to feel during labor.

This fear is one that doesn’t come with any clear-cut answers.  What you will feel during labor will depend on many factors. The baby’s position, your physical anatomy, and the circumstances surrounding how your labor starts.

The good news is there are many ways to address the discomforts associated with the labor process.

Your Tucson Doula can help you navigate the medical and non-medical pain relief options available to you during labor.

If you don’t have a doula, take a quality childbirth education class. A good class will help you learn more about the medical and non-medical comfort measures available to you. Which is an excellent way to combat fear as your near your big day!

Other common themes surround the fear of giving birth as well.

You may be afraid of tearing during delivery. Or perhaps you are fearful of unwanted interventions. Maybe your sister had her baby in the hospital parking lot, and you’re afraid that this might happen to you too.

One fear you may experience yet be afraid to voice is the fear of you or your baby dying during labor or birth. This is a common and yet often unspoken fear.

Because we don’t talk about it, it’s easy to feel alone.

Doulas Decrease Fear and Increase Confidence

We want you to know that you are not alone. Turn to your partner, doctor, midwife, or your Tucson Doula for support should your fears become a focus of attention for you.

Decreasing fear and enhancing support are two of the big benefits of labor doula support. Looking to your doula for support and information during labor is a huge source of reassurance.  Knowing that you don’t have to remember every option or technique with your doula by your side will allow you to experience your baby’s birth feeling more confident and supported.

Join the owners of Tucson Doulas on their podcast, The Doula Download, to learn more about The Fear of Giving Birth, or click play below to listen now.