should I prepare for labor? (XP)

somethingchangd

I have always wanted to experience natural childbirth.  I know it can be incredibly difficult (especially in a hospital setting) so I planned on doing lots of research, taking classes, etc. to prepare myself and hopefully set myself up for success.  However, I currently have placenta previa, which if remains unresolved will mean a c-section at 37w.  I have taken this news fairly well and have adopted a "what will be will be" attitude.  I fully expect to wind up with the C section at this point and I think that expectation is helping me adapt to the change in birth plan.  But there's still a chance that it will resolve eventually and I will be allowed a vaginal birth.

I am hesitant to research natural labor techniques and methods if I need a c-section.  I'm afraid it will just depress me and open a wound that I'm trying to heal.  But if I can attempt natural labor I don't want to go in unprepared.  What would you do?  Any advice?

(Sorry for this long, rambling post.  Obviously I'm feeling a little conflicted!)

beth thacker

I would still prepare for a vaginal delivery, it doesn't hurt to hope for the best. Also for future pregnancys if you plan on more children,it is now possible to have a vaginal delivery even after having a c-section the first time around.

I don't think you will be disappointed or depressed if you plan for a vaginal delivery and then find out it didn't resolve itself and a c-section is the only way. By then you will just be ready to hold your little one and anything to do that will be fine!

toospooky

bethiex3:

I would still prepare for a vaginal delivery, it doesn't hurt to hope for the best. Also for future pregnancys if you plan on more children,it is now possible to have a vaginal delivery even after having a c-section the first time around.

I don't think you will be disappointed or depressed if you plan for a vaginal delivery and then find out it didn't resolve itself and a c-section is the only way. By then you will just be ready to hold your little one and anything to do that will be fine!

Yep. What she said. There's no harm in researching it anyway, and besides, it'll be useful for future pregnancies and you won't feel like you have no idea what to expect if your delivery goes one way or the other.

RichInLove

I think you should prepare for both scenarios.

If you want a natural childbirth (med free), you'll need to prepare for that.

I recommend Hypnobirthing.

GL!

MegDC

I'm in the same boat so far with my placenta, but keep in mind that between 80-90% of placenta previa corrects itself.  So, its more likely than not that you will be fine and can deliver any way you choose.

joseysbride

My personal opinion is no matter how much you prepare or study for child birth and parenting, you are never going to be able to control everything 100%.  Prepare yourself to the point you feel comfortable, go in there with a goal for either situation, but also know that it may not work out the way you had planned and be prepared to deal with that, too.  In the end, the only thing that matters is that both you and your baby are healthy.