More nervous about this birth than the first? « Back to Group Discussions

[MamaInTheDesert]

This is going to be my second baby, and I feel like I'm way more nervous about the birth this time around. I think part of it is because I DO know what to expect. Like how contractions feel, how long it can take (12 hour labor last time), and all the work involved. But, I think the other part of it is that I DON'T know what to expect. My first birth was a full on hospital birth with meds and interventions out the wazoo (okay, maybe IN the wazoo). This time around it's going to be a low key, med free, home birth, hopefully in the water. So, on one hand, I've had a baby... but I haven't had a baby like THIS before.

Anybody else feeling more nervous the second time (or more) around, for whatever reasons?

Or has anybody else gone through a hospital birth, and then a home birth and feel anxious about the differences?

[Veritaserum]

I felt that way when I was pregnant with my second baby after a traumatic, medical hospital birth. Learning new skills specifically for reducing labor pain was immensely helpful to me. Learning about the pros and cons of all my options and more about the mechanics of birth in general was also essential. Hypnosis (I like Hypnobabies) was extremely effective in reducing my fears prior to the birth as well as providing me with tools to make labor comfortable. It just plain did not hurt. It was amazing and so healing to have such a peaceful, easy birth.

Many women find Hypnobabies to be a great aid to relieving anxieties or fears. Other women prefer a Birthing from Within approach. Either way, I think it is important to address the issue during pregnancy. I speak from experience when I say it's no fun to wrangle with these things during transition if you can help it. :-P