No matter how much you read up or hear from your grandma, first moms often end up committing some mistakes once they are in Labour. And so much so, that these silly mistakes can decrease your chances of delivering normally.

From timing your contractions to knowing when to head to the hospital and how to tackle emergency situations, there are a whole lot of mistakes first moms make once they are in labour. Understanding these mistakes and avoiding them can help you have a safe and sound delivery.

1.    Doubting the ability to handle pain

All first moms are nervous about labour Pain. From co-workers sharing bad labour experiences to mother narrating how they suffered and strangers at the grocery store threatening you to get the epidural, women get the idea that they cannot put up with the pain without extensive medical support.

But ladies, don’t listen to this. Our bodies are designed to give birth. So you can absolutely do this, fearlessly and wonderfully!

2.    Failing to learn about pain relief

Whether you are getting an epidural or are planning to manage with just gas, it is important you talk about it at length with your doctor and sort all queries. If you are getting an epidural it is important to know when you will be eligible for one, what to do in case it does not work at all or how to cope with a re-do of an epidural. It is imperative to know how to cope with pain, irrespective of whether it is a normal delivery or a c-section.

3.    Planning for multiple scenarios

All women pray to have a vaginal birth. But being prepared to face anything is the most practical thing to do while you are labouring. In case the baby’s heart rate drops and you are rushed in for a c-section, it is important you are mentally prepared for all of it. Trust us, being prepared for a c-section does not mean you would end up with one.

4.    Surprised by the intensity of labour

Most women believe labour would be hard, but don’t expect it to be THIS hard. The intensity of the pain takes them by a surprise and also leaves them doubting if they can do this. But ladies, fear leads to tension which leads to pain… which leads to fear, which leads to tension which leads to more pain. So stay calm and believe you can do it!

5.    Going to the hospital too early

Labour does not start off with ‘terrible’ pain. The pain kicks in and the intensity only increases with time. However, most women (in fear) end up rushing to the hospital the minute they experience their first contraction. And then there will be a good 24-hour wait at the hospital before you finally push your baby out. So, wait. Hang in there. Observe the pattern of your pain and make an informed decision.

6.    Childbirth classes are important

It’s not for no reason that hospitals are equipped with child birthing classes. From knowing your pain relief methods to handling every stage of labour, child birthing classes help you handle your labour efficiently. So don’t skip this one!

Feature image source: www.olisa.tv