I'm 14 weeks pregnant and probably being irrational/hormonal, but I've woken up feeling incredibly angry so I'd like some recommendations please.
I've had a probably fairly normal pregnancy so far - constant nausea and sickness, exhaustion, acne, irritability, etc. - and have not enjoyed it at all. The second trimester doesn't seem to have been much better so far. From what I can gather, all the NCT/hypnobirthing-type classes do is tell you about the miracle of birth and how thinking positively will see you through. I have had barely any info from my midwife, who just casually said I would probably give birth in a midwife-led unit (no thanks - would like as much pain relief as possible and will be opting for an epidural). What I would really like is for someone to sit me down and say - hey, things are probably going to be really crap for the next few months, the birth will probably be awful, but here's how we can get you through it and out the other end to the rewarding bit with minimal damage.
Could someone please recommend a book that does just that? I'd like information about all the options - pain relief, an honest account of breastfeeding, options for formula feeding, getting through sleep deprivation etc.
I've been so grateful for the honesty of women on here who don't beat around the bush. This baby is much wanted and I do appreciate how, despite feeling awful, I am incredibly lucky to be going through this and to be able to have this baby. However, I would just like some honesty, bluntness, and to feel like I actually have some options rather than going into this with my eyes shut hoping that some breathing exercises are going to make it all better.
Thank you!