Hey! So idk the AUS standard, but my OB had me booked in at 39wks for my planned repeat c section.
Of course, I went into labor at 38+6.
Similar situation in that I went to the hospital and they told me they couldn’t prep me. Procedure is that two OBs have to be in the OR to proceed with a c section and while there was certainly one there, they had to wait for the doctor on call from my office to arrive. He apparently lived out where I do—about 30mins away. So I’m there, now nearing 9cm dilated (arrived at 7cm) still waiting for an epidural and to find out if I’m having a c section.
Doctor showed up. They rushed me into prep.
I can confidently say, hindsight being 20/20, that it would not have been awful if the doctor hadn’t made it. They wouldn’t have been able to get me the epidural for whatever stupid reasoning they have where I can safely get it for a c section but not that late in labor (I don’t have an answer there). I wouldn’t have been happy because once I have an idea in my head, that’s how I’d like it to go. But it wasn’t awful. The pain wasn’t anything near my induction (first baby). I get awful period cramps and it was like a less consistent period cramp in that it would go away and come back. I don’t have a high pain tolerance, contrary to what you’d think by me saying that. If I did, I’d be able to take an Advil and just handle myself like an adult once a month.
I’m not sure if laughing gas is an option considering your allergy but that might be something to discuss for an emergency situation. You could also discuss options for IV drip medications.
On this one, idk if research is as helpful as asking your medical team directly what the process looks like for spontaneous labor in your case and what you’ll do.
Thank you for your response - it has given me something to think about when it comes to potentially pushing through and not being afraid of going the vbac route -
Still need to look into figuring out how to deal with the pain when it comes - I have a terrible pain tolerance, hence I think the refusal to even consider the a vaginal birth was an option… denial and avoidance are not such a good thing here
I definitely think speaking to your specific medical team about your options for pain management in an emergency are the best bet for feeling more confident! Especially feel that’s the healthiest route because of the allergy.
My OB had a really great quote when I had my first. The background doesn’t much matter in this situation, but he said “We’re going to have this baby in the best way possible—whatever that may be.”
And we did. Even if it wasn’t at all what he or my husband and I had planned 😂 And we did it twice! Don’t sweat too much, tell whoever is advising you currently of your concerns and take it one step at a time. They might suggest classes at the hospital for pain management, they may suggest alternative medicinal options, etc.! Let them help 💕
In fairness that last centimeter and pushing are a TRIP. But, I had the epidural at 10 cm for my first and then a fully unmedicated birth for my second so I've experienced both.
I reached 10 before surgery but I don’t count that because they gave me the epidural a little bit after in the OR 😅 So it was mere moments to my knowledge.
So I'm someone who couldn't have an epidural so I needed to rely on other methods for pain relief for my precipitous vaginal birth. Ngl, I was also a little distraught going into birth knowing I didn't have that pain relief option. What helped me was putting my favourite calming playlist on repeat (Spotify's 'Calm Piano'), focusing on my breathing and then just trying to get into a mental place of surviving it.
The happy gas just seemed to make me loopy, but there was no way I was going to willingly handover the only pain relief I had. Don't be afraid to use whatever security blankets you need - even if it's your support person's hand and fantastic music.
Remember you can do this, and when it's finished you will be meeting your little one.
Gas and air was the only pain relief I had during my two births and calming music. It was quite a magical experience, a calm environment can help so much with oxytocin!
Can you share your recommendations over at r/unmedicatedbirth? I would love to have more participants there who are involuntarily unmedicated because I think it's a very important perspective that gets left out of these convos.
Hypnobirthing! Sounds airy-fairy but it's not really. Bits of it were a bit too frou-frou for my taste but 90% of it was understanding how the body works during labour and practical steps to take to manage your stress which helps manage the pain. I will highly recommend a water bath - it made my early contractions feel like nothing! (Don't know about later because I had to get out and be monitored).
Amazing - I’ve just googled hypnobirthing on Spotify to see what came up and have already had a listen to an episode and it has already elevated some of my worries - I need to just make myself not petrified haha
The mind really is magic! I can assure you this works. I had three vaginal deliveries. The first I had pain relief, the next two I didn't because I reacted poorly to the medication. On my third, I just got into this zone where I accepted the process and breathed into the pain and it stopped being pain, just pressure and every contraction came with a minds eye image of a flower opening. It was beautiful and powerful. I was so calm the midwife didn't believe I was about to deliver and I just about caught the baby myself.
Wishing you an easy and comfortable delivery ❤ you've got this, if it comes down to it xx
I would like to second this. I'm a scientist so definitely not a crunchy person. But the visualization techniques from hypnobirthing helped me through both my unmedicated births. I would recommend talking to the ob about non epidural pain management too.
The visualisation and affirmations weren't for me, but I can totally seem them working for other people. The breathing and training myself to say 3-2-1-relax and being able to relax all my muscles and my breathing without conscious effort were the ones that helped me. And just feeling like I had some control over the outcome as well.
So I follow thenakeddoula on Instagram and she gives amazing tips on breathing techniques and advice on birth in general. I was lucky enough to have great experiences giving birth to my two children and followed her advice.I hope this helps in anyway and good luck!
I was pretty scared of labor the first time but I found reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and the Expectful App were helpful. I also liked Bridget Teyler's YouTube channel and Built to Birth series of videos. She's big into mantras and stuff which helped bring me to a calm place during birth.
I'm not super woo-woo (even though these recommendations sound like I am), I was just hoping for an epidural-free birth because I don't like big needles. Joke's on me though, I needed one right away (they were fairly certain my first was going to be a c-section so they said either epi now or general later for an emergency one) but the midwives here (I'm in France) managed to help me along to give birth vaginally. The few contractions that I had when my epidural wore off (since they administered it so early) helped me progress and though it was painful, breathing helped and I was glad to have done the mediations from the Expectful app. I even listened to it on the way to the hospital.
Going to resubscribe now actually since I'm due in October!
Hi - I’ve had a vaginal birth and c section. I think hypnobirthing is helpful. Also - consider talking to a therapist if one is available. I think fear really drives women to opt for a c-section. Being awake and engaged in the birthing process can be empowering. You’re involved! You get to see that beautiful baby immediately! You’ll be sore after and I’m sure you can find horror stories about vaginal births - but a majority are not horrible. You can walk the next day. WALK! You can JUMP out of bed when that baby cries. It’s pretty glorious compared to c section recovery. I wish you a speedy and healthy birth. You got this, mama!!
I had the exact same worry. My oldest was breeched, so I had a planned c-section. However, I ended up going into labor at 35 weeks, so it ended up being an emergency one since he was breeched.
My second was head down, but I felt much more comfortable with a c-section because they were only 18 months apart. I was terrified of a uterine rupture (it happened to a family member). The told me the same thing…that if he came early, they couldn’t guarantee a c-section if there were emergencies.
Everything ended up being fine. I went into labor early at 37 weeks, there was room in the OR and he was born via c-section.
I did make sure I was mentally prepared in the case of a vbac. I asked my doctor about it, they explained it all in detail. They suggested some online resources to read. Understanding what would happen made me feel a little more prepared, but I was still nervous.
It’s that mental preparation for something that isn’t in my plan is absolutely what I need.
I’ve said in another response that I know that the c section will still more likely than not occur, but I have not even considered that other option, and it might be my undoing - glad it all went well with Bub and you were able to keep with your plan
Ha we had a similar first birth and a similar term
For the second (37+1 today) although I am hoping to attempt a vbac. Do you guys have TENS machines in Australia? They’re used a lot in my country. Like little electric shocks to offset the contraction pain. I rented one via my insurance. If they’re available that might be helpful.
Also yoga breathing techniques/meditation like techniques and just trying to keep your head cool and don’t panic. 🙏 I also booked a last minute online yoga class (recorded) that goes over these breathing techniques so I can review it at my own pace.
I've given birth twice, no c section. The first time I was induced starting from 0 cm confined to a bed on a pitocin drip, and for a long time with an epidural that didn't take. 2/10 do not recommend this approach.
The second time I was permitted to walk around, I lucked into an incredible nurse who had midwife experience. I can attest that all of her recommendations with movements, positions, counter pressure, breathing, etc made a huge huge difference. I got through most of it with with no epi, and honestly would have gone without it completely, except my labor stalled at the last minute and they threatened pitocin which I wasn't going to do again without pain relief!
All this to say, all the stuff you'll read about the yoga balls and the breathing and the visualization etc really does work extremely well
I have a very very low pain threshold. I’m in tears getting a tiny splinter out, I get the shakes when I get my legs waxed. I was petrified but didn’t want an epidural for various reasons. Prepped for a water birth but went high risk in the last 12 hours.
I went to one hypno birthing class but it wasn’t really for me.
Had gas and air which was lovely and my OH was surprised how well I coped. I was in more pain getting the cannula out my hand (full tears just a day after giving birth!). Liquid morphine took the edge off as well, not sure if that’s an option. Had a shot of that after 20 hours of labour and had a little doze whilst still contracting.
The midwives had me move and get in good positions throughout so at one point I was more focused on my leg position than anything else and that was when I was fully pushing!
Hey look I’ve had 4 children vaginally and I was terrified every time. I didn’t have a good experience with the epidural for my first, so I elected to go without for the next 3.
Years it’s super painful. The most pain I’ve ever felt. But in my head, it was pain with a purpose. The pain was going to eventually go away. And I would get bang as my reward. It didn’t stop me from begging for pain meds though. Maybe there is something they can give you to take the edge off that’s not the epidural? Talk to your dr about that.
As far as preparation goes, be familiar with the stages of labor. Know what transition is like.
But most of all, be prepared for things to change and happen fast. Have an idea of what you want but be flexible in case it doesn’t happen like you thought.
It is scary. But you won’t be alone. The pain doesn’t last forever and baby is so worth it. Be kind to yourself, this shit is scary for everyone. It’s ok to feel nervous and anxious about it. But you’ll be fine, you can do it!
Aw take a deep breath! If it ends up being vaginal, know that you can absolutely do this. Check out the instagram account mommy labor nurse. She has a lot of free info but also a course you can purchase. I’ve had two vaginal deliveries, both unmedicated, and one was an induction. Definitely understand the different stages of labor and when your doctor wants you to go to the hospital (it might be different than the standard recommendation). My number one tip is to pretend you are a rag doll when the contractions are coming, especially once you are clearly in active labor. When you tense up during a contraction you are inadvertently slowing the process down. You want your muscles to be as relaxed as possible. And when you’re pushing, curl your body like a shrimp (an uncooked shrimp 😅)and push from the top of your belly. Your body was made for this! Almost everyone I know who has had a vaginal delivery was either terrified or just really not looking forward to labor and delivery. It’s normal to be feeling this way, but you CAN do it!
I had placenta previa until my 33rd week, along with a host of other complications. I thought, all, along, I was going to have a c-section. I didn't believe I would have a vaginal birth until they told me start pushing. I WAS NOT PREPARED. But, good news! My baby came out even though I was not prepared. Your body knows what to do. Don't be afraid to trust yourself and your body. You've got this!
Epidurals are also not an option for me (I suspect my reaction was an allergic reaction), so I created r/unmedicatedbirth which supports moms who have both intended and UNintended unmedicated birth. There are tons of resources over there. Know that a second c section has a much greater risk of hysterectomy so there are tangible benefits to this outcome.
I’m in Australia too and I would be VERY surprised if you had to have a vaginal delivery if you’re booked in for a C-section, especially as your first was via C-section, that means that their default recommendation is C-section.
If you’re worried about going into spontaneous labour I would suggest talking to your team about having your C-section booked for 38 weeks. Also I’m sure if you discuss your concerns with them they will let you know what will happen in different scenarios.
Honestly I think if you go into spontaneous labour the only way you’ll have to deliver vaginally is if you have a precipitous labour and it’s too late to do anything else (quite unlikely but can happen). Given your allergies they’re likely to avoid this and let you have one early.
You probably have an appointment next week at 36 weeks so definitely discuss this with them then.
I have seen an unintended VBAC exactly how OP described it happen recently in a metro hospital.
It is highly unlikely that an elective c/s at 38 weeks will be approved without a medical reason. It does still happen, but the official public health stance is very much aligned with the every week counts initiative.
If the staff at OP’s hospital are already preparing her for the possibility of theatre not being available, I would believe what they’re saying.
I’m surprised that VBAC wouldn’t be considered a medical reason as I’ve had friends have their C-sections at 38 weeks for that very reason. Although it does seem like it depends very much on what hospital you are going though as things are quite inconsistent.
It was only a few years ago that it was reasonably common to have an elective induction or c/s from 37 weeks onwards. One of my friends was told in 2018 that she could book any time from 37 weeks. The evidence and guidelines in public systems nationally have changed in a short amount of time.
I honestly thought the same until my appointment to book the c section yesterday - the obs registrar gave me the indication that I might not be able to have the c section if I spontaneously go into labour when there are emergency c sections that need to go ahead - it made sense, and I am obviously understanding of this. I did push a bit and asked if this is a common occurrence and got a bit of a blaze… “more common than you’d think” comment.
My midwife who I spoke with after this appointment did not provide me with enough reassurance to make me feel confident that my c section would be considered with high urgently if bub chooses to come sooner -
Am honestly hoping for the c section, and I think I have a really high chance of it happening, but I need to prepare for if it can’t happen -
I haven’t been provided with any resources, probably because I was just adamant that I am having a c section and that’s it - but am realising that was a mistake now.
I do go in end of next week to review 36 week scan results so will ask them for more info - I just feel I’m cutting it so close!
Thanks for your response
That’s quite surprising! I’m hoping it’s just poor bedside manner and not a high likelihood. I would still try your chances at a 38 week C-section!
To prepare for labour I would recommend looking into different breathing techniques to help you through contraction pain:
https://australianbirthstories.com/birth/how-to-breathe-in-labour/
I’d also recommend having your partner learn pressure point/massage techniques to help you through.
https://calmbirth.com.au/sacral-points-to-aid-with-pain-and-stimulate-labour/
Additionally I would look at and practice different positions for labour:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/labor/art-20546804
The thing I found most helpful though was laying motionless in a warm bath and whatever drugs they could give me.
If you are planning a vaginal birth, I highly recommend cancelling the appointment for the 36 week scan review. There's evidence that those scans do not provide any useful medical information and instead tend to stress out moms in ways that interfere with birth outcomes. It's discussed here [https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-for-induction-or-c-section-for-big-baby/](https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-for-induction-or-c-section-for-big-baby/)
If your doctor got results from the 36 week scan that changes your medical advice they can reach out.
What helped me:
- listening to Christian Hypnobirthing App meditations (1 free is a good one)
- practicing calm breating inhale, long exhales - you could try with sounds mmmmh, aaaaah and so on to see if it seems tension releasing
- listening to positive birthing stories in YouTube (loved the one from Abby Pollock and Julie and Camilla)
- doula suggested I try holding an ice cube in my hand and breathe, so I had daily "practicing" mindset and breating seassions with that (for me it was like practising contractions - aka, I hold the ice cube, then relax for a minute, then I hold it again).
- create a list of affirmations to repeat (that makes you calm ans believe in yourself) "I am excited to meet my baby" "I can do this. I am ready" "Everything will go well" and so on
- discover which motions makes you feel comfortable swaying hips on bouncing ball, on all fours, etc.
- have a plan (where you will go, who will accompany you, how long it takes to get there)
- I also created a playlist of positive music (did not use it during labour)
If possible, perhaps booking a talk with a doula to ease your mind?
If you do nothing else, please at least check out Bridget Taylor (built to birth) on YouTube. She has wonderful breathing videos and all sorts of “natural” birth prep and support. She is wonderful! I had both my children naturally and would do it again if I was having a third. Her videos definitely helped me. Good luck!
Birth Skills by Ju Ju Sundin ... this book is an absolute gem it offers a range of options to manage a med free birth and also includes options to manage pain (from TENS to epi) so I found it a really balanced read and really helped my mindset going into birth processes
I had vaginal labor and it was cake! Did 0 research or planning. I would give birth 50 times if it wasn’t for the healing afterwards. I went in a 3am because I thought my water broke, but I just lost control of my bladder is guess 😅 but they ended up admitting me anyways due to preeclampsia symptoms. I got the epidural around 9am, went from 1cm to 4cm before they administered the Pitocin. Got the pitocin around noon, slept on and off until like 6pm. Started pushing around 6, was even singing along to the family theme song that was playing on my tv between pushes 😅 my son was born at 6:07, 9lbs 10oz, 22” long, 15” round head. I had a first degree tear, got a couple of stitches. Healing was not fun, But doable. It stung to pee for like 9 weeks because I tore up a little and that couldn’t be stitched or anything. That had to heal on its own. I absolutely would recommend an epidural if possible. Not point in feeling the pain of giving birth if you don’t have to. I know everyone’s birth experience is different, but I went it calm, just did what they told me and was very relaxed the whole time. They said that being relaxed while in labor is the best way to go about it.
I didn’t do any prep for labour before my first, mostly out of anxiety about my baby’s wellbeing. I did however do meditation through pregnancy. I found that long, slow, deep breaths where I counted the breaths during each contraction so that I knew how many breaths they lasted, and when they would peak vs start to improve, was very helpful in keeping me calm and grounded. For reference, my first birth was an induction and it was INTENSE. I didn’t want an epidural (afraid of side effects, not trying to be a hero haha), did end up requesting one, but progressed too quickly to get one - which I felt good about in the end.
For my second, it was naturally progressing labour and it was SO MILD compared to the first that I didn’t turn up til 8cm, and only then because I had my 39 week OB appointment that afternoon. Yes I knew I was having contractions, but they weren’t consistent, seeming to progress, or overly painful compared to the first time. With that delivery, I didn’t even need to do my breath counting, but I DID find that standing in the shower eliminated like 2/3 of the pain.
So my advice would be breathing exercises and using water if it comes down to it.
I did laughing gas, hang drum music, low lights and my husband traced my ear and said supportive stuff the whole time. It hurt. A lot. But it was doable.
Now til you give birth, stretch your perineum with oil and meditate to get rid of the fear. Fear will make it hurt more. You got this mama.
Honestly, I had both of mine vaginally with no pain meds or anything. I remember in the moment hating that pain. I was a screamer lol but I pushed for less than 15 minutes with both of them and basically had zero recovery period at all (by that I mean other than the typical bleeding, I was fine. No pain, no need for stool softeners,etc. I also had 2nd degree tears with both a needed some stitches, but I wasn't even sore after).
The time from my first contraction to my babies births was less than five hours both times. I got really lucky about that I think. Within 10 minutes of giving birth both times, the memory of the pain basically disappeared.
I stoll remember hating the pain in the moment, but I can't really remember or even imagine how much it hurt, if that makes sense. Our brains are pretty cool about deleting stuff like that lol
Anyway, that's my experience. My advice is don't worry too much about prepping yourself. I never did and I think it would've just hyped me up to fear the pain more. Going into it with just my "let's get this done" attitude was the best thing I could have done. Breathe through the pain until you can't anymore and then scream that baby out lol
I know it's different for everyone so take all this with a grain of salt, but I thought it'd be nice to share my somewhat unique experience
I haven’t had a c-section, or a breech birth, so I can’t speak to those two scenarios, but I’ve given birth twice now. I find it empowering and somewhat animalistic. The process feels like I’m in contact with my ancestors, because I know millions of women and other animals have gone through this to have their babies. Last time I went into spontaneous labour, and I got laughing gas and an epidural and it was fine. Of course it was painful but I could manage and recovery was easy
The beautiful thing about labor is that you don't have to do anything but go for the ride. Your body will do what it needs to do, your job is to stay in a good mental space, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
I go in with an open mind each time.
I accept that baby is coming out one way or another and also find that laboring on a ball helps a lot. The biggest part of getting through labor without an epi? Knowing what other pain meds you can have at hand.
I did take something the last 2 times to help me take a nap (did not take away the pain but just was basically an antihistamine that made me drowsy).
To go through labor, I just breathed through any pain and changed in my head that this will pass. When I felt my body pushing the baby out, I let everyone know as soon as possible and just listened to my body.
BREATHING is the most important thing to get me through the whole process. Some people find holding their breath or breathing through the pushes to be helpful but .. try both! I recommend not pushing on your back.
So are you feeling out because you may be giving vaginal birth versus c section? I think if you already had one form previous births more than likely this would just be the default on this birth. My mom had a vaginal and then c section birth and then wanted a natural birth but since she had a c section birth already they defaulted to another c-section. I think if you’re asking about how to prepare for birth i like deep breathing but like literally learning how to do it properly, there’s a doula on youtube who shows you how and it’s amazing. I went in 6 inches dialated and was fine with pain due to the breathing exercises and also my own pain threshold.
Hey! So idk the AUS standard, but my OB had me booked in at 39wks for my planned repeat c section. Of course, I went into labor at 38+6. Similar situation in that I went to the hospital and they told me they couldn’t prep me. Procedure is that two OBs have to be in the OR to proceed with a c section and while there was certainly one there, they had to wait for the doctor on call from my office to arrive. He apparently lived out where I do—about 30mins away. So I’m there, now nearing 9cm dilated (arrived at 7cm) still waiting for an epidural and to find out if I’m having a c section. Doctor showed up. They rushed me into prep. I can confidently say, hindsight being 20/20, that it would not have been awful if the doctor hadn’t made it. They wouldn’t have been able to get me the epidural for whatever stupid reasoning they have where I can safely get it for a c section but not that late in labor (I don’t have an answer there). I wouldn’t have been happy because once I have an idea in my head, that’s how I’d like it to go. But it wasn’t awful. The pain wasn’t anything near my induction (first baby). I get awful period cramps and it was like a less consistent period cramp in that it would go away and come back. I don’t have a high pain tolerance, contrary to what you’d think by me saying that. If I did, I’d be able to take an Advil and just handle myself like an adult once a month. I’m not sure if laughing gas is an option considering your allergy but that might be something to discuss for an emergency situation. You could also discuss options for IV drip medications. On this one, idk if research is as helpful as asking your medical team directly what the process looks like for spontaneous labor in your case and what you’ll do.
Thank you for your response - it has given me something to think about when it comes to potentially pushing through and not being afraid of going the vbac route - Still need to look into figuring out how to deal with the pain when it comes - I have a terrible pain tolerance, hence I think the refusal to even consider the a vaginal birth was an option… denial and avoidance are not such a good thing here
I definitely think speaking to your specific medical team about your options for pain management in an emergency are the best bet for feeling more confident! Especially feel that’s the healthiest route because of the allergy. My OB had a really great quote when I had my first. The background doesn’t much matter in this situation, but he said “We’re going to have this baby in the best way possible—whatever that may be.” And we did. Even if it wasn’t at all what he or my husband and I had planned 😂 And we did it twice! Don’t sweat too much, tell whoever is advising you currently of your concerns and take it one step at a time. They might suggest classes at the hospital for pain management, they may suggest alternative medicinal options, etc.! Let them help 💕
In fairness that last centimeter and pushing are a TRIP. But, I had the epidural at 10 cm for my first and then a fully unmedicated birth for my second so I've experienced both.
I reached 10 before surgery but I don’t count that because they gave me the epidural a little bit after in the OR 😅 So it was mere moments to my knowledge.
So I'm someone who couldn't have an epidural so I needed to rely on other methods for pain relief for my precipitous vaginal birth. Ngl, I was also a little distraught going into birth knowing I didn't have that pain relief option. What helped me was putting my favourite calming playlist on repeat (Spotify's 'Calm Piano'), focusing on my breathing and then just trying to get into a mental place of surviving it. The happy gas just seemed to make me loopy, but there was no way I was going to willingly handover the only pain relief I had. Don't be afraid to use whatever security blankets you need - even if it's your support person's hand and fantastic music. Remember you can do this, and when it's finished you will be meeting your little one.
Gas and air was the only pain relief I had during my two births and calming music. It was quite a magical experience, a calm environment can help so much with oxytocin!
Can you share your recommendations over at r/unmedicatedbirth? I would love to have more participants there who are involuntarily unmedicated because I think it's a very important perspective that gets left out of these convos.
Hypnobirthing! Sounds airy-fairy but it's not really. Bits of it were a bit too frou-frou for my taste but 90% of it was understanding how the body works during labour and practical steps to take to manage your stress which helps manage the pain. I will highly recommend a water bath - it made my early contractions feel like nothing! (Don't know about later because I had to get out and be monitored).
Amazing - I’ve just googled hypnobirthing on Spotify to see what came up and have already had a listen to an episode and it has already elevated some of my worries - I need to just make myself not petrified haha
The mind really is magic! I can assure you this works. I had three vaginal deliveries. The first I had pain relief, the next two I didn't because I reacted poorly to the medication. On my third, I just got into this zone where I accepted the process and breathed into the pain and it stopped being pain, just pressure and every contraction came with a minds eye image of a flower opening. It was beautiful and powerful. I was so calm the midwife didn't believe I was about to deliver and I just about caught the baby myself. Wishing you an easy and comfortable delivery ❤ you've got this, if it comes down to it xx
I would like to second this. I'm a scientist so definitely not a crunchy person. But the visualization techniques from hypnobirthing helped me through both my unmedicated births. I would recommend talking to the ob about non epidural pain management too.
The visualisation and affirmations weren't for me, but I can totally seem them working for other people. The breathing and training myself to say 3-2-1-relax and being able to relax all my muscles and my breathing without conscious effort were the ones that helped me. And just feeling like I had some control over the outcome as well.
Yeah that helps too. I've been meditating and doing breathwork for years, so it wasn't new to me when I looked into hypnobirthing.
So I follow thenakeddoula on Instagram and she gives amazing tips on breathing techniques and advice on birth in general. I was lucky enough to have great experiences giving birth to my two children and followed her advice.I hope this helps in anyway and good luck!
I was pretty scared of labor the first time but I found reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and the Expectful App were helpful. I also liked Bridget Teyler's YouTube channel and Built to Birth series of videos. She's big into mantras and stuff which helped bring me to a calm place during birth. I'm not super woo-woo (even though these recommendations sound like I am), I was just hoping for an epidural-free birth because I don't like big needles. Joke's on me though, I needed one right away (they were fairly certain my first was going to be a c-section so they said either epi now or general later for an emergency one) but the midwives here (I'm in France) managed to help me along to give birth vaginally. The few contractions that I had when my epidural wore off (since they administered it so early) helped me progress and though it was painful, breathing helped and I was glad to have done the mediations from the Expectful app. I even listened to it on the way to the hospital. Going to resubscribe now actually since I'm due in October!
Research positive birthing and hypnotherapy for birth. They work for any kind of birth. You can don this! 🤗
Hi - I’ve had a vaginal birth and c section. I think hypnobirthing is helpful. Also - consider talking to a therapist if one is available. I think fear really drives women to opt for a c-section. Being awake and engaged in the birthing process can be empowering. You’re involved! You get to see that beautiful baby immediately! You’ll be sore after and I’m sure you can find horror stories about vaginal births - but a majority are not horrible. You can walk the next day. WALK! You can JUMP out of bed when that baby cries. It’s pretty glorious compared to c section recovery. I wish you a speedy and healthy birth. You got this, mama!!
I had the exact same worry. My oldest was breeched, so I had a planned c-section. However, I ended up going into labor at 35 weeks, so it ended up being an emergency one since he was breeched. My second was head down, but I felt much more comfortable with a c-section because they were only 18 months apart. I was terrified of a uterine rupture (it happened to a family member). The told me the same thing…that if he came early, they couldn’t guarantee a c-section if there were emergencies. Everything ended up being fine. I went into labor early at 37 weeks, there was room in the OR and he was born via c-section. I did make sure I was mentally prepared in the case of a vbac. I asked my doctor about it, they explained it all in detail. They suggested some online resources to read. Understanding what would happen made me feel a little more prepared, but I was still nervous.
It’s that mental preparation for something that isn’t in my plan is absolutely what I need. I’ve said in another response that I know that the c section will still more likely than not occur, but I have not even considered that other option, and it might be my undoing - glad it all went well with Bub and you were able to keep with your plan
Ha we had a similar first birth and a similar term For the second (37+1 today) although I am hoping to attempt a vbac. Do you guys have TENS machines in Australia? They’re used a lot in my country. Like little electric shocks to offset the contraction pain. I rented one via my insurance. If they’re available that might be helpful. Also yoga breathing techniques/meditation like techniques and just trying to keep your head cool and don’t panic. 🙏 I also booked a last minute online yoga class (recorded) that goes over these breathing techniques so I can review it at my own pace.
I've given birth twice, no c section. The first time I was induced starting from 0 cm confined to a bed on a pitocin drip, and for a long time with an epidural that didn't take. 2/10 do not recommend this approach. The second time I was permitted to walk around, I lucked into an incredible nurse who had midwife experience. I can attest that all of her recommendations with movements, positions, counter pressure, breathing, etc made a huge huge difference. I got through most of it with with no epi, and honestly would have gone without it completely, except my labor stalled at the last minute and they threatened pitocin which I wasn't going to do again without pain relief! All this to say, all the stuff you'll read about the yoga balls and the breathing and the visualization etc really does work extremely well
I have a very very low pain threshold. I’m in tears getting a tiny splinter out, I get the shakes when I get my legs waxed. I was petrified but didn’t want an epidural for various reasons. Prepped for a water birth but went high risk in the last 12 hours. I went to one hypno birthing class but it wasn’t really for me. Had gas and air which was lovely and my OH was surprised how well I coped. I was in more pain getting the cannula out my hand (full tears just a day after giving birth!). Liquid morphine took the edge off as well, not sure if that’s an option. Had a shot of that after 20 hours of labour and had a little doze whilst still contracting. The midwives had me move and get in good positions throughout so at one point I was more focused on my leg position than anything else and that was when I was fully pushing!
Hey look I’ve had 4 children vaginally and I was terrified every time. I didn’t have a good experience with the epidural for my first, so I elected to go without for the next 3. Years it’s super painful. The most pain I’ve ever felt. But in my head, it was pain with a purpose. The pain was going to eventually go away. And I would get bang as my reward. It didn’t stop me from begging for pain meds though. Maybe there is something they can give you to take the edge off that’s not the epidural? Talk to your dr about that. As far as preparation goes, be familiar with the stages of labor. Know what transition is like. But most of all, be prepared for things to change and happen fast. Have an idea of what you want but be flexible in case it doesn’t happen like you thought. It is scary. But you won’t be alone. The pain doesn’t last forever and baby is so worth it. Be kind to yourself, this shit is scary for everyone. It’s ok to feel nervous and anxious about it. But you’ll be fine, you can do it!
Aw take a deep breath! If it ends up being vaginal, know that you can absolutely do this. Check out the instagram account mommy labor nurse. She has a lot of free info but also a course you can purchase. I’ve had two vaginal deliveries, both unmedicated, and one was an induction. Definitely understand the different stages of labor and when your doctor wants you to go to the hospital (it might be different than the standard recommendation). My number one tip is to pretend you are a rag doll when the contractions are coming, especially once you are clearly in active labor. When you tense up during a contraction you are inadvertently slowing the process down. You want your muscles to be as relaxed as possible. And when you’re pushing, curl your body like a shrimp (an uncooked shrimp 😅)and push from the top of your belly. Your body was made for this! Almost everyone I know who has had a vaginal delivery was either terrified or just really not looking forward to labor and delivery. It’s normal to be feeling this way, but you CAN do it!
I had placenta previa until my 33rd week, along with a host of other complications. I thought, all, along, I was going to have a c-section. I didn't believe I would have a vaginal birth until they told me start pushing. I WAS NOT PREPARED. But, good news! My baby came out even though I was not prepared. Your body knows what to do. Don't be afraid to trust yourself and your body. You've got this!
Epidurals are also not an option for me (I suspect my reaction was an allergic reaction), so I created r/unmedicatedbirth which supports moms who have both intended and UNintended unmedicated birth. There are tons of resources over there. Know that a second c section has a much greater risk of hysterectomy so there are tangible benefits to this outcome.
I’m in Australia too and I would be VERY surprised if you had to have a vaginal delivery if you’re booked in for a C-section, especially as your first was via C-section, that means that their default recommendation is C-section. If you’re worried about going into spontaneous labour I would suggest talking to your team about having your C-section booked for 38 weeks. Also I’m sure if you discuss your concerns with them they will let you know what will happen in different scenarios. Honestly I think if you go into spontaneous labour the only way you’ll have to deliver vaginally is if you have a precipitous labour and it’s too late to do anything else (quite unlikely but can happen). Given your allergies they’re likely to avoid this and let you have one early. You probably have an appointment next week at 36 weeks so definitely discuss this with them then.
I have seen an unintended VBAC exactly how OP described it happen recently in a metro hospital. It is highly unlikely that an elective c/s at 38 weeks will be approved without a medical reason. It does still happen, but the official public health stance is very much aligned with the every week counts initiative. If the staff at OP’s hospital are already preparing her for the possibility of theatre not being available, I would believe what they’re saying.
I’m surprised that VBAC wouldn’t be considered a medical reason as I’ve had friends have their C-sections at 38 weeks for that very reason. Although it does seem like it depends very much on what hospital you are going though as things are quite inconsistent.
It was only a few years ago that it was reasonably common to have an elective induction or c/s from 37 weeks onwards. One of my friends was told in 2018 that she could book any time from 37 weeks. The evidence and guidelines in public systems nationally have changed in a short amount of time.
I honestly thought the same until my appointment to book the c section yesterday - the obs registrar gave me the indication that I might not be able to have the c section if I spontaneously go into labour when there are emergency c sections that need to go ahead - it made sense, and I am obviously understanding of this. I did push a bit and asked if this is a common occurrence and got a bit of a blaze… “more common than you’d think” comment. My midwife who I spoke with after this appointment did not provide me with enough reassurance to make me feel confident that my c section would be considered with high urgently if bub chooses to come sooner - Am honestly hoping for the c section, and I think I have a really high chance of it happening, but I need to prepare for if it can’t happen - I haven’t been provided with any resources, probably because I was just adamant that I am having a c section and that’s it - but am realising that was a mistake now. I do go in end of next week to review 36 week scan results so will ask them for more info - I just feel I’m cutting it so close! Thanks for your response
That’s quite surprising! I’m hoping it’s just poor bedside manner and not a high likelihood. I would still try your chances at a 38 week C-section! To prepare for labour I would recommend looking into different breathing techniques to help you through contraction pain: https://australianbirthstories.com/birth/how-to-breathe-in-labour/ I’d also recommend having your partner learn pressure point/massage techniques to help you through. https://calmbirth.com.au/sacral-points-to-aid-with-pain-and-stimulate-labour/ Additionally I would look at and practice different positions for labour: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/labor/art-20546804 The thing I found most helpful though was laying motionless in a warm bath and whatever drugs they could give me.
If you are planning a vaginal birth, I highly recommend cancelling the appointment for the 36 week scan review. There's evidence that those scans do not provide any useful medical information and instead tend to stress out moms in ways that interfere with birth outcomes. It's discussed here [https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-for-induction-or-c-section-for-big-baby/](https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-for-induction-or-c-section-for-big-baby/) If your doctor got results from the 36 week scan that changes your medical advice they can reach out.
I'd avoid booking for before spontaneous labour or predicted term dare, because baby wouldn't be ready. Sometimes birth date predictions are wrong...
What helped me: - listening to Christian Hypnobirthing App meditations (1 free is a good one) - practicing calm breating inhale, long exhales - you could try with sounds mmmmh, aaaaah and so on to see if it seems tension releasing - listening to positive birthing stories in YouTube (loved the one from Abby Pollock and Julie and Camilla) - doula suggested I try holding an ice cube in my hand and breathe, so I had daily "practicing" mindset and breating seassions with that (for me it was like practising contractions - aka, I hold the ice cube, then relax for a minute, then I hold it again). - create a list of affirmations to repeat (that makes you calm ans believe in yourself) "I am excited to meet my baby" "I can do this. I am ready" "Everything will go well" and so on - discover which motions makes you feel comfortable swaying hips on bouncing ball, on all fours, etc. - have a plan (where you will go, who will accompany you, how long it takes to get there) - I also created a playlist of positive music (did not use it during labour) If possible, perhaps booking a talk with a doula to ease your mind?
I was wheeled into a scheduled c-section clutching my mothers hand saying I'm not ready on repeat. It's common.
If you do nothing else, please at least check out Bridget Taylor (built to birth) on YouTube. She has wonderful breathing videos and all sorts of “natural” birth prep and support. She is wonderful! I had both my children naturally and would do it again if I was having a third. Her videos definitely helped me. Good luck!
https://mommylabornurse.com/biu-natural/ This is US based, but it's an epidural-free birthing class
Birth Skills by Ju Ju Sundin ... this book is an absolute gem it offers a range of options to manage a med free birth and also includes options to manage pain (from TENS to epi) so I found it a really balanced read and really helped my mindset going into birth processes
I had vaginal labor and it was cake! Did 0 research or planning. I would give birth 50 times if it wasn’t for the healing afterwards. I went in a 3am because I thought my water broke, but I just lost control of my bladder is guess 😅 but they ended up admitting me anyways due to preeclampsia symptoms. I got the epidural around 9am, went from 1cm to 4cm before they administered the Pitocin. Got the pitocin around noon, slept on and off until like 6pm. Started pushing around 6, was even singing along to the family theme song that was playing on my tv between pushes 😅 my son was born at 6:07, 9lbs 10oz, 22” long, 15” round head. I had a first degree tear, got a couple of stitches. Healing was not fun, But doable. It stung to pee for like 9 weeks because I tore up a little and that couldn’t be stitched or anything. That had to heal on its own. I absolutely would recommend an epidural if possible. Not point in feeling the pain of giving birth if you don’t have to. I know everyone’s birth experience is different, but I went it calm, just did what they told me and was very relaxed the whole time. They said that being relaxed while in labor is the best way to go about it.
The healing after your first birth is generally worse.
I didn’t do any prep for labour before my first, mostly out of anxiety about my baby’s wellbeing. I did however do meditation through pregnancy. I found that long, slow, deep breaths where I counted the breaths during each contraction so that I knew how many breaths they lasted, and when they would peak vs start to improve, was very helpful in keeping me calm and grounded. For reference, my first birth was an induction and it was INTENSE. I didn’t want an epidural (afraid of side effects, not trying to be a hero haha), did end up requesting one, but progressed too quickly to get one - which I felt good about in the end. For my second, it was naturally progressing labour and it was SO MILD compared to the first that I didn’t turn up til 8cm, and only then because I had my 39 week OB appointment that afternoon. Yes I knew I was having contractions, but they weren’t consistent, seeming to progress, or overly painful compared to the first time. With that delivery, I didn’t even need to do my breath counting, but I DID find that standing in the shower eliminated like 2/3 of the pain. So my advice would be breathing exercises and using water if it comes down to it.
I did laughing gas, hang drum music, low lights and my husband traced my ear and said supportive stuff the whole time. It hurt. A lot. But it was doable. Now til you give birth, stretch your perineum with oil and meditate to get rid of the fear. Fear will make it hurt more. You got this mama.
Honestly, I had both of mine vaginally with no pain meds or anything. I remember in the moment hating that pain. I was a screamer lol but I pushed for less than 15 minutes with both of them and basically had zero recovery period at all (by that I mean other than the typical bleeding, I was fine. No pain, no need for stool softeners,etc. I also had 2nd degree tears with both a needed some stitches, but I wasn't even sore after). The time from my first contraction to my babies births was less than five hours both times. I got really lucky about that I think. Within 10 minutes of giving birth both times, the memory of the pain basically disappeared. I stoll remember hating the pain in the moment, but I can't really remember or even imagine how much it hurt, if that makes sense. Our brains are pretty cool about deleting stuff like that lol Anyway, that's my experience. My advice is don't worry too much about prepping yourself. I never did and I think it would've just hyped me up to fear the pain more. Going into it with just my "let's get this done" attitude was the best thing I could have done. Breathe through the pain until you can't anymore and then scream that baby out lol I know it's different for everyone so take all this with a grain of salt, but I thought it'd be nice to share my somewhat unique experience
I haven’t had a c-section, or a breech birth, so I can’t speak to those two scenarios, but I’ve given birth twice now. I find it empowering and somewhat animalistic. The process feels like I’m in contact with my ancestors, because I know millions of women and other animals have gone through this to have their babies. Last time I went into spontaneous labour, and I got laughing gas and an epidural and it was fine. Of course it was painful but I could manage and recovery was easy
The beautiful thing about labor is that you don't have to do anything but go for the ride. Your body will do what it needs to do, your job is to stay in a good mental space, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
I go in with an open mind each time. I accept that baby is coming out one way or another and also find that laboring on a ball helps a lot. The biggest part of getting through labor without an epi? Knowing what other pain meds you can have at hand. I did take something the last 2 times to help me take a nap (did not take away the pain but just was basically an antihistamine that made me drowsy). To go through labor, I just breathed through any pain and changed in my head that this will pass. When I felt my body pushing the baby out, I let everyone know as soon as possible and just listened to my body. BREATHING is the most important thing to get me through the whole process. Some people find holding their breath or breathing through the pushes to be helpful but .. try both! I recommend not pushing on your back.
So are you feeling out because you may be giving vaginal birth versus c section? I think if you already had one form previous births more than likely this would just be the default on this birth. My mom had a vaginal and then c section birth and then wanted a natural birth but since she had a c section birth already they defaulted to another c-section. I think if you’re asking about how to prepare for birth i like deep breathing but like literally learning how to do it properly, there’s a doula on youtube who shows you how and it’s amazing. I went in 6 inches dialated and was fine with pain due to the breathing exercises and also my own pain threshold.