**TW** Trauma after loss - terrified of labour in new pregnancy

[Northby]

I just wanted to see if there is anyone who has had a similar experience to me. I’ve had two losses which were physical torture on top of the emotional grief. I’m on pregnancy number 3 which seems to be going well but I’m really struggling with the thought of delivering this one. I don’t want to go to antenatal classes as you talk about labour all in a room together and I just feel like bursting into tears at the thought of it.

I am wondering if I may have PTSD or something from my previous experiences. I’ve spoken to a well-being consultant at the hospital and they told me to contact a mental health charity which I am looking into but I’m struggling to find any support.

I feel really lonely as my friends are all on different journeys - some on baby number 2 or 3 and never had any issues, some figuring out if they want kids. I don’t want to constantly talk about how sad I am, and no one really understands as they haven’t gone through it, so I’m keeping this all to myself. I feel really alone.

Has anyone experienced a similar situation or felt like this?

I would highly recommend doing an online course called the bump to baby chapter. I had a bad first birth but after doing the course with my second I actually almost enjoyed the birth and felt really in control. It’s videos that you can watch in your own time and they’re incredibly helpful and informative.

Have you spoken to your midwife, they tend to be more understanding about mental health issues than consultants.

Thanks so much @Twoinapod I will definitely try that.