What can I do if I'm afraid of giving birth? 

Many women struggle with the fear of giving birth. You may have questions and concerns surrounding pain, lack of control, and the unknown. You are not alone in your fears.

Know that you DO have control over how you prepare for the childbirth process, physically and emotionally. Keep reading to learn how you can start the process and plan well.

If you’re still evaluating your options, visit Options Clinic. We provide early pregnancy services, encouragement, and a safe place to ask questions.

Ask Questions & Prepare

A lack of information can lead to concerns and fears. Knowledge can provide clarity and a sense of peace. The better informed you are about the childbirth process, the more confidence you can gain. Talk to your OB-GYN, midwife, or other care professionals. Choose a healthcare team you can trust.

Some practical ways to prepare for birth are to attend childbirth classes, research pain management techniques, research stages of labor and delivery, and find a strong support system.

Know that you won’t have all the answers, and that’s okay. Try to take it day by day and step by step. Talk with a medical professional to work through your most pressing pregnancy questions.

Create a Birth Plan

Having a plan will help you feel more in control during your birth and will be the foundation for making decisions throughout the process.

Creating a birth plan involves writing out what you would like to happen during labor and delivery. This plan informs your OB-GYN about your wishes for labor and delivery.

It’s important to be flexible, as sometimes things don’t go as planned. If something unexpected happens, lean on your care team to prioritize your safety.

Support Is Available

You are not alone as you navigate pregnancy and planning for childbirth. We can support you and provide information on programs in the community designed to help you.

If you are pregnant and considering your options, schedule a free appointment with us at Options Clinic to learn how we can assist you.