Top 7 Best Ways to Overcome Childbirth Anxiety

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Are you overwhelm with childbirth anxiety?

You have officially reached the end of your childbirth journey. Childbirth fear and anxiety is a normal feeling when you think about what childbirth will be like.

Your head runs wild with all the crazy stories that others have told about their horrible experiences. You’re stressed and worried that you might have the same experience.

We all know that Aunt Sally doesn’t see the point in you having a natural birth. So she tells you how awful the pain was and discourages you from having the experience you want. As a result, you rethink your birth goals. As well as, have an increase in unnecessary stress about what kind of birth you truly will have. 

We all know that every birth is different. Someone may have had the worst birth in history, but that doesn’t mean that it will be your birth story too.

I know what it’s like to get close to the finish line and struggle with your inner thoughts about your capabilities of birthing. I too had these thoughts and I overcame them. I want to share with you the few ways you can overcome these self-sabotaging thoughts and have the birth of your dreams.

1. Make sure you have a birth plan

I know you’ve heard it a thousand times. However, it’s true. If you don’t have a birth plan yet, I suggest you start making one. Having a birth plan can help you figure out your options for birth and how you want your birthing experience to go.

Yes, I know that your birthing experience may not go as planned, but that is not the case for all births. Many women have had their birth plans followed to a T.

However, if you’re not able to do all the things on your birth plan, that’s okay. It will still allow you to set parameters for certain things, for example, keeping your newborn on your chest for newborn care or setting your birthing environment.

On the other hand, if you do have a plan in place and you’re feeling anxious, take a look at your plan. It can help you refocus your thoughts and remind you of your birthing goals. Review it, read it aloud, share it with your birth team. By sharing it with your birth team, they can also remind you of the birth you want and consequently offer support and make sure you stay positive. 

2. Surround yourself with supportive people 

There is nothing worse than being around buzzkillers. If you are currently experiencing anxiety or fears about birth, then stop listening to the horror stories of other women. For instance, If your friend has had a horrible experience with birth, avoid talking about it over and over with them.

Moreover, if you have that friend that relates every positive aspect that you experience in your birth to something negative in their birth, avoid telling them everything. It won’t help you. Find like-minded moms who have had positive birthing experiences. Talk to them, and let them empower you.

I know what you’re thinking—But I need to know the bad stories as well as good ones. Yes, I agree that a few bad stories can help you decide on what kind of labor you want. But if you’re already experiencing anxiety, this is the worst thing you can do. In truth, hearing labor stories from hell will just increase your anxiety and stress.

3. Take a childbirth course

This is my most favorite way to reduce birthing fear. Educating yourself about birth is the best way to alleviate birthing fears and anxiety. It will also help you prepare. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare for labor can help increase your chances of a positive labor experience. With this in mind, even if you don’t get the birth you want, your preparations will still help you manage unexpected turns.

Moreover, taking a course was essential to me having a natural birth. If you’re interested in having a natural birth in a hospital setting, join my waitlist. I’m currently working on a course to teach you exactly that. Sign up below to learn more about the course and to get a discount when it’s released.

4. Talk with your provider about your childbirth fears and anxiety

Your provider is a resource of knowledge about labor and what to expect. Let them know what you’re anxious about. They may be able to address your concerns and provide you with insights into reducing your anxiety. There is probably nothing they haven’t experienced when it comes to labor anxiety, so ask them questions, and tell them your fears. By now, you should have given them your birth plan and established rapport with them. If you’ve chosen the right provider for you, they will be a tremendous help in supporting you. 

5. Get a prenatal massage

To sum it up, there is no one more deserving of a massage than a pregnant mama! Your back, hips, feet, and uterus ache. You’ve been carrying a tiny human in your uterus for months. That takes a lot of work, and it takes an emotional, physical, and mental toll on your body.

Hence, sign yourself up for a massage and start relaxing today! Not only will you be able to relax, but having a massage will also help calm you down, allowing your body to relax and resetting your mind. It’s a great way to reduce anxiety and stress. Just make sure your massage therapist avoids those labor starting pressure points! 

6. Acupuncture to reduce your childbirth anxiety

Acupuncture can help with anxiety and stress about anything. The acupuncture points connect to deep nerves. The needles cause the nerves to activate, sending brain chemicals called endorphins to block various signals. These blocked signals can also reduce things such as pain, nausea, constipation, and others.

7. Watch a birth

There is nothing like seeing the act of giving birth. It’s amazing! There are no other words to describe it. Watching other moms have a positive birthing experience can help you to stay positive. Hop on YouTube and see some of these amazing moms give birth to their babies. Their feeling of empowerment may help you work through your issues surrounding birth. 

Conclusion

If you’re a first-time mom, know that it’s normal to have fears and anxiety about childbirth. The points I have listed will help guide you and prevent those feelings from taking over your birthing experience. Nevertheless, if your fears are consuming you and stopping you from keeping your baby healthy, then I recommend you let your provider know.

If you’re experiencing anxiety and fears about birth? Share your comment below.

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