Preparing for second birth

[biggest]

Just a quick one, what would you recommend I do to prepare for DC2, due at end of July - DS birth 2 years ago was pretty traumatic and I want to approach this one with a positive attitude and not dwell on the last time!
I don't really have time for classes with a toddler to look after, so maybe a CD or book to help me relax and refresh me on the breathing type stuff that I didn't really use last time!

On the recommendation of others on lots of different threads I thought I'd read ina may gaskins book. My library had it. Because it's written as if she's talking to you, I'm finding it easy to pick up and put down when ds needs my attention.
So far, Some of it is reassuring, some Of it is making me nervous.
I'm reading part2 first then part1.
I have tried any hypnobirthing stuff yet. Don't think I'll have time dc2 due in June

Definitely recommend either "Effective Birth Preparation" which is the Natal Hypnotherapy book, or "Hypnobirthing: The Breakthrough to Safer, Easier, More Comfortable Childbirth" which is the Mongan hypnobirthing book (that's the UK version).

To go with those (if you want specific breathing techniques go for the Mongan book) get hold of the Natal Hypnotherapy CDs.

Read the book(s) thoroughly, listen to the CDs religiously every day, practise the techniques in the books every day. This is what I and 2 of my friends did for our 2nds (my friends had both had pretty traumatic time for 1st) and we all had triumphant and lovely births. Can't rely on it of course - but it can help an awful lot, and help hugely towards making you feel more optimistic for your 2nd.

Also (of course!) if you think you are low risk, consider homebirth - it can greatly increase your chances of having a satisfying birth.

I second Ina May Gaskin's guide to childbirth. I had a horrible delivery with DD1, and a really lovely experience this time. I credit much of that outcome to a positive attitude towards the birth, largely as a result of reading this book. Plus some useful prectiacl tips. Really, honestly can't recommend it enough. I'm getting it as a gift for a couple fo first-timers I know, as I really really really wish I'd read it first time round.

Really hoping it goes well for you, and you get the kind of birt you're hoping for - FWIW I found my secomd birth very healing after the trauma of my first.

db
xx

designerbaby I remember you from my first pregnancy posting here! I am sure I had a different name then, but I remember I had a lot of the same issues you had and I think we were at the same hospital.
Delighted that you have had a lovely second birth and have another DC!