Uncertainty or fear of birth
With the first child, everything is new – the growing abdominal girth, pregnancy discomfort, the baby’s first kicks, and then, of course, the birth process. Insecurity or fear of birth is very understandable. Relatives, friends, books, the Internet, as well as gynecologists and midwives can answer many questions, but they cannot always completely relieve a pregnant woman of her fears.
What are you afraid of?
Before giving birth, women are often plagued with various fears: How severe will the pain be? How long will the delivery take? What if the baby is not healthy? Your doctor can usually alleviate much of the latter fear during your checkups, when he or she finds that the baby is bouncing around in your belly and developing normally. Your own health is also in good hands with your doctor. If you are still unsure: Don’t be afraid to approach your doctor or midwife and tell them about your fears!
Fear of birth and pain
How painful a birth is cannot be predicted and varies from woman to woman. However, there are several methods of anxiety and pain relief.
Muscle relaxation
Acupuncture
Fear of childbirth can often be alleviated with acupuncture. By placing fine needles at certain points on the skin, the cycle of fear, tension and pain should be broken – but of course only if you are not afraid of needles. Find out about the possible uses of acupuncture during childbirth while you are still pregnant.
TENS
The TENS device (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) works with small electrical impulses that act on the muscles of the back. This is to suppress pain signals from the uterus and pelvic area. Ask your doctor or midwife for more information.
Antispasmodic medications
Anticonvulsant medications may also be given to relieve pain. However, they are insufficient for very severe pain.
PDA to relieve pain
Fear of childbirth and the pain associated with it can lead to a vicious cycle: Out of fear, women become tense and contracted, which usually worsens labor pain – and then increases anxiety about the next contraction.
Psychosomatic preparation against fear of birth
Since “perinatal medicine” was introduced as a term in obstetric medicine in the years from 1965 to 1975, much has changed. Since then, the safety that is paramount for mother and child has been increasingly linked to the emotional experience of the birth process. This includes providing the expectant parents with accurate information about all the processes involved in pregnancy and birth. The psychological aspects of the birth experience have also come into focus.
For example, pregnant women can do autogenic training, gymnastics and swimming exercises, and have psychological talks to prepare for the birth and reduce anxiety. In maternity clinics, individualized care is now a matter of course. The presence of a closely trusted person – usually the baby’s father – also contributes to safety and anxiety reduction. The use of painkillers has been shown to be less when the woman giving birth is not left to her own devices.