Approaching due date - anxiety!

[Alicia870]

Hi all I’m due 25th with first baby and feeling super anxious. Trying very hard to focus on hypnobirthing techniques, listen to affirmations, relaxation, read up on positive birth stories etc. I’m just finding it hard to fully relax with the impending birth ahead and not knowing what to expect! Anyone else feeling the same and how are you coping?

Don't put any pressure on yourself for how you want it to go.
No pain relief , pain relief , Caesarian in the end it doesn't matter.
Go with what you need in the moment. Then it will be easier.
It happens and then it's over. And you will have a beautiful bundle. You'll be fine.

Aw thank you - I’m a natural worrier at the best of times but somehow just feel as though I’m awaiting trial or something. In reality I know it’s only one or two days and the reward is worth it but it’s just the thought of it. When I’m in the throes I’m sure I will somehow just get through it. Thanks ❤️

I was oddly calm about labour with my first. Somehow the inevitably of it (it HAD to happen) made it easier not to worry. I couldn't get out of it and figured I'd deal with it as it happened. I totally appreciate not everyone will feel that way though, and I'm probably in the minority.

I prepared by learning about labour and my options and I also did hyno birthing to prepare (so worthwhile) and got my hands on a TENS machine for during labour. I'd recommend a TENS machine to anyone! But then once I felt "prepared" I put it to the back of my mind and I didn't really think about it and avoided "horror stories" at all costs (although horror stories mean nothing, all births are different).

So my advice would be try not to obsess and think about it too much - as the PP said you will be fine. What will happen will happen and you will be looked after. It's fine to have a birth plan if that help you, but understand that it's impossible to predict how birth will go, so be prepared to go with the flow.
If you find yourself getting anxious, listen to a hyno birthing track to bring your thoughts back to the positive side.

I was like this with my first birth.
Now I'm due my second I've realised I need to just go with the flow! I worried unnecessarily with the first as what happens, happens! Only one thing on my birth plan actually happened. The midwives and doctors are amazing and will do everything to make sure you are comfortable and it goes well

Thank you! This has really helped reassure me. It’s so refreshing to hear positive spins on birthing as so many people just love to tell you how awful it can be!