Why am I losing confidence?

Jhontiel · July 2012

FTM here and I have been preparing myself this entire pregnancy for a natural birth. My DH and I read and re-read the Bradley methods, have practiced relaxation and stretching techniques, and I have very strong support from my mid-wife and family.

Now, coming up on week 38 I am freaking out that my body just won't allow it to happen. I am somewhat overweight and when exercising (running prior to pregnancy) my heart rate can get pretty high. I feel fine, but I know its high, like 170.

My fear is that my blood pressure is going to get too high and it will effect DS's heart rate and intervention will be needed. What do you guys think? I will allow whatever intervention that needs to happen to keep my baby safe, I am just trying to prepare myself should I not get the birthing experience I have been hoping for.

vintagejjane · July 2012

I got really nervous around 38 weeks too. I kept reading positive home birth stories to boost my confidence and my husband got really good at learning some positive affirmations and said them to me daily before I went into labor.

judahsmommy1 · July 2012

My heart rate gets pretty high while running too. I also had blood pressure issues throughout my last pregnancy. My blood pressure did fine during labor. It was never a concern.

Rickielynn · July 2012

I had my son at home. I was so scared it was going to hurt and that my lungs were going to give out or something. Ever since I was little I've had a pain in my lungs when I breathe to heavily or do hard exercise. I went into it preparing for the worst. Everyone said I'd be in labor for at least 24 hours, that it'd hurt so bad and no way would I be able to do it. I ended up having a by the book labor. I read "What to Expect" most the way through my labor, keeping track of how long every stage was, just in case. And with 8 hours of back labor and 18 minutes of pushing out popped my son. It didn't hurt, worst part was the ring of fire when his head came out. The worst pain I ever felt was the kidney infection I had for 2 months straight while in the 2nd trimester.

Truth is you're scared because natural births aren't normal. Not many people do them so you have no one to really lean on, but trust me you'll be fine. Prepare for the pain or tell yourself it's mind over matter and everything else will flow perfectly.

PrimRoseMama · July 2012

You can do it! Just take your own individual situation one contraction at a time. Wishing you confidence, peace & strength for your labor!

nycteach · July 2012

I have had two med-free births and my anxiety about just about everything always creeps up at the end. I was actually in tears at my appt this afternoon. Just try to focus on taking care of yourself, surround yourself with positive birth stories and trust that everything is already working perfectly for you and your LO.