MOST PREGNANT WOMEN are so fearful of labour pain that they don’t even want to attempt natural birth. This fear is a huge impediment, both physically and mentally, to a positive birth experience.
We live in a culture that is afraid of pain and does not understand that there are many ways to manage discomfort, especially during labour. Many women do not know that they have built-in mechanisms that help them deal with the pain of labour. Their confidence is then further eroded by others telling them that labour pain is something to be avoided at all costs.
In many cultures, the pain of labour is seen as normal and valuable, but more often today, some women see labour pain as unnecessary and unwanted – not understanding that it has a very specific purpose. Describing the pain of labour is complicated, as it does not bear any similarity to anything you have felt before. Also pain perception in each person is unique.
Many factors will influence how you will experience labour pain, including your environment, your energy levels, your emotional state as well as the people around you and their attitude to pain. Pain may feel worse if you are very anxious.
WHY DOES LABOUR HURT?
Esta historia es de la edición February/March 2020 de Your Pregnancy.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición February/March 2020 de Your Pregnancy.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
COVID & your child
Symptoms, treatment, vaccines and a rare condition called MIS-C is on our minds when it comes to The Virus these days.
EYES WIDE OPEN!
Breastfeeding and night wakings? Experts shine a light on a possible connection.
RAISING A BRAT? TIME FOR A RESET!
It happens, even with the best of intentions. Sometimes we go overboard trying to show our love – and then things backfire.
Prioritise REST!
The fatigue of pregnancy serves to remind you exactly what miracle your body is performing, so it’s essential to listen to it. Here’s what you can do to get through these low times.
CRYING CLUES
Discover the meaning behind your baby’s cries.
Pushing isn't all you need to do!
There are four main factors that affect the length and intensity of labour. They are known as the four P’s and work together to make each woman’s labour unique.
We're all NERVOUS about it!
Sure, it can seem scarier than labour, but with these simple tips to bathing your newborn, you’ll soon be a pro.
FOUR-FOOTED FAMILY MEMBERS
Your children and your pets – everything you’ll need to know to be a happy family.
Here's to HAPPIER beach days!
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
TALK SO YOU'RE HEARD!
Feel like your child just doesn’t listen to you? There are some techniques you can use to improve your chances of getting through.