Strategies to decrease anxiety surrounding giving birth

Every individual's birth experience is unique, and finding the strategies that work best for you will contribute to a more positive and empowered birth journey.

Strategies to decrease anxiety and promote a positive birth experience:

- Education: Attend childbirth education classes to understand the process, learn coping techniques, and learn about breastfeeding techniques and benefits beforehand to ease potential worries.
- Breathing Exercises: Practice deep, calming breaths to manage stress and anxiety during labour.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Focus on the present moment to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation.
- Prenatal Yoga: Participate in prenatal yoga classes to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and learn relaxation techniques.
- Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with a supportive birth team and communicate your preferences.
- Birth Plan: Create a flexible birth plan to outline your preferences and ease uncertainty.
- Continuous Support: Have a doula, partner, or supportive friend present to provide emotional and physical support.
- Focus on the Baby: Concentrate on the excitement of meeting your baby to shift your focus away from your anxiety.
- Communication: Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider to address concerns.
- Flexibility: Embrace unpredictability and be open to adjusting plans as needed.

Common Thoughts Surrounding Giving Birth

- "Will everything go smoothly?"
- "How much pain will I experience?"
- "What if there are complications?"
- "Am I prepared for this?"
- "Will I be a good parent?"
- "What if I can't handle the pain?"
- "Will I have a healthy baby?"
- "What will labour be like?"
- "Will I be able to cope with the unknown?"
- "How will my partner and I handle the process?"