Finding out you’re pregnant is one of the most exciting pieces of news that someone can learn about. However, after the initial excitement, it’s normal to start feeling unsure or nervous about your delivery. The date may seem to start appearing closer and closer, and you may have no idea what to expect. You may worry that the doctor may inflict a birth injury. You may have to have a cesarean, and you may even worry that your pain will be unbearable.
All of these worries are normal; however, you don’t have to succumb to them. Rather than allowing yourself to feel stressed and uncertain, it’s better to prepare yourself as much as possible.
Studies show that moms who did their homework to prepare themselves for the experience had a much less stressful delivery and felt the stress was more manageable than those who did not. If you’re expecting a baby take a look at some of the best ways to prepare yourself for your birth experience.
Take a Birthing Class
Although birthing classes may seem like something you only see expecting mothers doing in the movies, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Taking a childbirth class will not only help prepare you but also your partner. You’d be surprised how much you can learn even if you think you already know everything that there is to know.
You can ask questions, meet other expecting moms, and feel a sense of community that can put you at ease.
Take Yoga
Yoga is proven to help people find increased strength and focus that they can apply to their childbirth experience. You may even want to consider taking prenatal yoga for a more specialized experience. By physically preparing your body, you will feel more prepared when you go into labor.
Pack a Hospital Bag
One of the biggest stresses associated with giving birth is feeling like everything is happening all at once. The uncertainty of not knowing where you’ll be when you go into labor can be very stressful. The best way to avoid this extra stress is to plan ahead as much as possible.
One way to do this is by packing your hospital bag ahead of time. Fill your bag full of everything you think you might possibly need during your birth process. Consider things like extra blankets, disposable underwear, and even things like chapstick. It doesn’t hurt to ask other moms what they recommend to pack for the hospital.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Studies show that the tenser you are, the less positive of a birth experience you’ll have. It’s helpful to practice relaxation techniques before you go into labor. Get to know the best ways to put your mind at ease during stressful experiences like labor.
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