It’s so easy to read negative stories as that’s what people talk about.
I had DC1 four years ago and had attended NCT which was helpful in gaining knowledge. I didn’t have a birth plan as such and was happy to take anything I needed, as I wasn’t sure of my pain tolerances etc.
Before getting to hospital I used a TENs machine and by the time I got there I was in active labour. I went into the pool which slowed the labour down, but the pain was manageable with gas and air. At the point of transition (you go a little crazy and cave woman like!) I was asking for an epidural and a section. I was offered pethidine and I asked if it would take the pain away, to which the midwife replied “not entirely, just makes you not care about the pain”. Well I wasn’t about to have it if it didn’t stop the pain. I think they knew due to my demands that birth was imminent. It was, and all was great. We did delayed cord clamping and the removal of placenta didn’t require an injection either. It was a great experience.
DC2 was induced this month and I used the TENs machine again, along with gas and air. Everything happened incredibly quickly and it was so painful. After 90 minutes of having the pessary I had two paracetamol and another tablet, think it began with a D? That made me feel drowsy!
I had the pessary removed after six hours at 10pm as the contractions were very close together and I measured 1cm. Fast forward to 11.30, my waters went and I was on all fours begging for an epidural when the midwife checked on me 15 mins later, I was 9cm and had started involuntary pushing. DC2 was born at 00:04! Whilst it was an induction and you read all sorts (I was petrified by what I’d read and expected the worst!), it was actually a good experience on reflection.
I have to say that the TENs machine was invaluable to my experience. I don’t think I could have managed without it and given that the induction process can be more intensive than a spontaneous labour, it was essential.
As I had a lot of gas and air for induction my throat was dry and my voice was horse for a week. I didn’t feel sick with it.
I’m also grateful that I didn’t have an epidural as there is an increased chance of further intervention (forceps etc.) which I was definitely wanting to avoid! However, I’d always be guided by medical advice and encourage you to do what you need to at the time as you don’t know how you’ll feel.
I was definitely open to everything and if there had been more time with DC2 I would have had an epidural!
In both births I was home the same day. DC1 born 4am and home for 1pm, DC2 born midnight and home around 2pm.
Whilst you’ve not asked for this, I wish that someone would have given me some advice about managing my pain when I got home, particularly the first bowel movement. I’d suggest you eat
Six to eight prunes each day leading up the birth and for a good few weeks after. Drink plenty of water for the same period and ensure you’re eating high fibre foods, with fruit and veg. This helped me with a good consistency and eased pain/discomfort afterwards as it’s so important you don’t get constipated.
When going to the loo, particularly if you’ve had stitches, hold a pad or tissue against your stitches to support you. You may also find it helpful to rest your feet on a box which adjusts your position (knees higher up).
If you end up with piles use anusol suppositories, the ones “may be suitable for breastfeeding with GP advice” - they have a three on the box. Also regular paracetamol as required.
Sorry, I know I’ve just written war and peace, but hope that’s useful for you - it’s not all bad, but just be prepared to manage your pain and discomfort as you feel is appropriate.
Good luck and I hope it all goes well!