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The Fear of Labor
Having a good birth is highly possibly, once you accept that you have to expect
the unexpected.
As the due date of your bundle of joy approaches, you are undoubtedly
contemplating labor and what to expect. Fear of the unknowing, the mysterious,
and of course the pain of labor. Can all those horror stories you've heard from
your mother down to strangers on the street be true?
The biggest fear for many newly pregnant women is that the pain and suffering of
labor will be so unbearable, you'll simply break down. Simply put, giving birth
is not painless. Nor, will it be without risks. It's an experience that no one has
been able to truly describe to you, and it's an experience for which no one can
fully prepare. Understanding labor and delivery is a major hurdle to accomplish.
Each labor and each delivery is unique, the same way that each and every child is unique.
There are so many books, articles, and web sites dedicated to pregnancy and childbirth
available to you. Take advantage of their availability to gain the understanding you need
and relieve some of the anxiety from your shoulders.
Many women feel that using medication during labor will be the ultimate failure,
meaning that they didn't pass Childbirth and Labor 101. Each woman has to
realize that childbirth is not a contest, there are no prizes or points given
for suffering the most. The most important thing is that you have a safe
pregnancy and a safe delivery. Realizing that labor is not a state of continuous
pain will build your confidence. Contractions usually last no more than ninety
seconds, even during a second-stage hard labor pain. You will have a chance to
get comfortable in between contractions as your uterus relaxes. Your labor
Partner or support personnel should focus on helping you do whatever is needed
in order for you to remain confident and in control. Some suggestions would be
to change positions, relax, or do breathing exercises.
While it's possible to use certain methods, either natural or medical, to speed
up and ease the pain of labor, in the end it comes down to what you are dealt by
nature. Also, it is extremely important to have an obstetrician or caregiver
that is willing to work with you to form a birth plan. A birth plan will help in
the decision to ask for the use of medication, if needed. Knowing your levels
for pain, tolerance, strength and endurance, plus have someone who can be an
advocate for you in the delivery room, such as your partner, a friend, a doula,
or a midwife.
Regardless of how you pull it off, a good birthing experience brings with it a
sense of satisfaction, pride, joy and the power of knowing you and your body's
capabilities. The experience will help you to discover resources and coping
skills buried deep within you. And it will ultimately enable you to appreciate
the wonder and beauty of bringing a child into this world.
Copyright © Sybil Barkley-Staples. Sybil writes fiction novels, short stories and articles for an
array of online e-zines in her spare time. More of her work can be read on her website. Reprinted with permission.
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