Labour

Have a look into hypnobirthing classes around you. I think there may be some around Northampton area but I may be wrong. It really does change your perspective on giving birth. X

I was also going to suggest hypnobirthing. I have a really positive story for you, well 2 actually. Happy to share them if you like, drop me a pm x

I was also terrified at the thought of it but it’s not as bad as social media makes out! Try and think positive and watch some hypnobirthing YouTube videos it helped me so much, your body is designed for birth you can do it!

I would recommend the positive birth book. I found it a super practical (none medicalised) way to educate around birth. Hypnobirthing is great too!! If you can afford it and they do not come cheap you could hire a doula. Also just tell people you don’t want to hear their birth story. EVERYONE as soon as you are pregnant wants to tell you their story and how ‘awful it was’. It’s honestly not that bad for the majority of people. I have a really positive birth story - it was totally fine. If everyone’s was so traumatic why do most go on to do it again!!! I think if you go in to it educated on what’s going to happen, have a good dialogue with your midwife, take control of what you can take control of, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself, you will find it’s not as bad as everyone makes out!

Oooo, Naomi’s comment reminded me, I listened to practical ways to make your birth better by Siobhan Miller and that was such a great book too x

If you’re on TikTok watch Ebby Moyer labour, her videos changed my perspective 🥰

The positive birth book by Milli Hill. It’s really helpful! X

Please try not to be too anxious I know that’s difficult and sounds impossible but it it possible - being stressed will make it harder. Remember women have been doing this forever!!! You’ve got this! I ended up having a great Labour (I mean yes it is bloody painful and weird and a new experience) but generally I had a good one and feel lucky - I honestly think not worrying helped so as others have suggested try breathing exercises be as prepared as you can but don’t fill your mind with any negative or scary stuff it’s not helpful. Literally the more relaxed you can be the better the experience and the easier it will be.