If you’re afraid of giving birth, that’s understandable.
No matter your reason for being afraid of giving birth, it’s valid—but learning all you can about giving birth and creating a birth plan can help.
This article will highlight the essentials you need to know about giving birth and how to create a birth plan. Are you looking for a safe, supportive space to talk? We’re here to help with free and confidential appointments.
How Does the Birthing Process Work?
The birthing process inherently comes with pain. However, each woman’s pain threshold is unique; while some women might experience intense pain during childbirth, other women might feel less.
No matter how much pain you experience, it’s essential to remember that the pain has a purpose. The pain during birth comes from uterine contractions, which is essentially your uterus squeezing to push the baby down the birth canal.
Birth is comprised of three stages:
- 1: Early and Active Labor. This stage begins with the onset of regular contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters. It is divided into two phases:
- Early Labor: Contractions are mild and irregular, gradually becoming more regular and intense. During this phase, the cervix dilates from 0 to 4 centimeters.This stage can last several hours to days, especially for first-time mothers. It’s usually a time to rest, stay hydrated, and prepare for more active labor.
- Active Labor: Contractions become stronger, more frequent, and more painful. The cervix dilates from 4 to 10 centimeters.This phase is shorter than early labor, typically lasting 4 to 8 hours. As active labor progresses, the baby moves down into the birth canal.
- 2: Pushing and Delivery. Once the cervix is fully dilated, the second stage begins. It involves pushing and delivering the baby. This stage can last from a few minutes to several hours. With each contraction, you will be instructed to push, which will help the baby move through the birth canal. The baby’s head crowns, and with a few more pushes, the baby is born.
- 3: Delivery of the Placenta. The final stage that occurs after the baby is born is the delivery of the placenta. This is generally a quick process, where the healthcare provider removes the placenta and checks to make sure it’s been delivered in its entirety.
Sometimes, labor doesn’t progress normally. When this happens, you might need a C-section, which is a surgical procedure that removes the baby from your uterus via a special incision.
C-section is a major surgery that requires more time for healing afterward. However, it can be the safest option in certain situations.
How to Create a Birth Plan
A birth plan is simply an outline of what you want to happen during the birthing process and a contingency plan in case things don’t happen the way you want.
When creating a birth plan, thinking through the following questions can help:
- What types of pain management am I considering? (Breathing techniques, massage, epidural, etc.)
- What items can I bring with me to the hospital to make me feel more comfortable? (A favorite blanket or robe, music, computer for watching a movie, etc.)
- If I have to have a C-section, who do I want with me during the procedure?
You’re Not Alone
Being afraid to give birth is normal, but you’re not alone in this.
At Choose Hope Women’s Center, we’re here for you. Contact us today to learn about all the ways we’re here to help. All appointments and services are free and confidential.