Second timer but really scared

[LucieStar]

Anyone done it before but highly anxious about doing it again?

I'm due to have my 2nd baby in about 6 weeks and I'm so unbelievably anxious about labour and birth. I randomly had a panic attack this morning.

Nothing particularly traumatic about the first one either so I don't understand!

I can relate.

I've given birth 4 times. 1st was traumatic, 2nd ok, 3rd piece of piss, but when pregnant with my 4th, I was so terrified all pregnancy. I arrived at the hospital hyperventilating with fear as much as pain! It was fine and afterwards I thought how silly I had been to ruin 9 months with something that took a few hours. I'm not saying you are silly but try not to let the anxiety consume you. Subsequent labours and almost always easier than first labours. Your body knows what to do. It sounds a bit earth mothery but honestly, trust in your body and your healthcare workers and all will be well. Good luck

@LucieStar, I think we all start toget anxious the closer we get to the end! I've done it twice, honestly the second experience was so much better plus all the newborn things you need to do seem to come so much easier.

Have you considered hypnobirthing? Gentle relaxation and visualisation may help. Perhaps practical things will help too like sorting your hospital bag and planning who will look after your first child when you go to give birth.

Good luck, you can do it! You've done it before!

@Kittytheteapot

Thanks for your reply. I'm not sure where it's come from to be honest, I've not worried about it all pregnancy, but because I'm on the final stretch now I think it's just taken over a bit in my mind. Obviously Covid and separation from loved ones who I'd usually talk to about it etc isn't helping this time around!

@Chocolatetrifle

Thank you, yes I'm actually about to start hypnobirthing sessions so I'm hoping that will help. Hospital bag is already packed and ready to go and childcare sorted etc, so I feel prepared in a practical sense, just emotionally I'm all over the place!