Overcoming fear and anxiety before childbirth & bull; hello healthy

Although it seems that pregnant women have 9 months to prepare for labor, when the time is near you will still feel panicked and anxious. Indeed, physical readiness alone is not sufficient to bring a child into the world. You also have to prepare mentally. However, many pregnant women fear childbirth. This fear and anxiety can come from a variety of sources. For example, you have heard a story about your sister's birth which is quite stressful or you are someone who can not stand the pain.

Feelings of anxiety and fear of childbirth are natural. If this is your first delivery, you will probably imagine bad things going to happen. However, a second labor can still be daunting. For example, because your first labor went well, you are afraid the second will be quite difficult. Or precisely because your first delivery was not smooth, you are also worried that the second birth will also be problematic.

If you are one of the pregnant women who is afraid of giving birth, you need to practice special techniques to overcome this fear. The reason is, childbirth is a natural and beautiful experience, not always as scary and stressful as you think. Remember that a woman's body is designed to be able to get through labor. Don't let this precious moment be overwhelmed by fear. Take a closer look at some of the following tricks for dealing with fear and anxiety before childbirth.

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1. Choose a trusted doctor or midwife

The first thing a woman who is afraid of childbirth should do is choose the right obstetrician or midwife. Make sure your obstetrician has a known reputation, is trusted, or has helped your family members and friends go through labor. That way, you will be calmer and want to believe the doctor's words. It is also important to make sure that you and your husband share the same thoughts as the doctor or midwife who is in charge of your delivery. All of you will also be able to cooperate well throughout the pregnancy and birth process.

2. Have a flexible plan

Remember that when the time for childbirth comes, the plans that you have put together in such a way with your husband and obstetrician can suddenly be ruined. However, that doesn't mean that something bad will happen. Changing plans is normal in labor. When this happens, you need to be open to the suggestions and options available. To help you calm down if something doesn't go according to plan, discuss all backup options and possibilities with your husband and obstetrician.

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3. Listen to your body and baby

Ultimately, the birthing process is controlled by your body and your baby. Trust that your body and the baby that is about to be born have a special way of working together. So, you must learn to listen carefully to your body and your baby from the very beginning of pregnancy. Spend some quality time chatting intently with your fetus and feeling its presence in harmony with your body. Pay attention to any body changes that occur and find out the cause. You also become more confident and at the same time surrender to the labor process that will occur.

4. Doing relaxation

For some pregnant women, the resulting fear and anxiety can be overwhelming. If this is how you feel, you need to practice relaxation techniques. Close your eyes and think of a place or situation where you feel calm and peaceful. Imagine the atmosphere, remember the various smells you smelled in that place, and relive the emotions that appeared at that time such as happiness or satisfaction. As you think about it, keep your breaths as low and deep as possible. You can also join yoga and meditation specifically for pregnant women to help calm your mind before childbirth.

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5. Understand the pain during childbirth

If you are afraid of giving birth because you can't stand pain, you need to change your mindset. Understand that the pain of childbirth is not the same as the pain that arises when you are injured or have an illness that you need to get rid of quickly. These physical sensations are very much needed to bring your baby into the world. Understanding this will make it easier for you to control your panic because of the pain.

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6. Seek support from family or friends

Pregnant women who are surrounded by their closest people before birth will feel more confident and optimistic about their delivery. There is no need to be ashamed to admit that you are afraid of giving birth, just by telling someone who can be trusted you can express that fear. However, you also need to limit yourself so you don't hear too many scary stories about childbirth.

7. See a therapist

If the fear and anxiety you are experiencing before labor is too severe, seek professional help immediately. You can see a psychologist or therapist to help you deal with the fear of childbirth. Remember, the mother's mental health is just as important as physical health. A deep research British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology recently revealed that the fear of childbirth risks making the labor process more complicated and lengthy. So, don't underestimate the psychological condition of pregnant women before childbirth.