FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN

This blog was originally posted on 1/14/2018

As a first time mom we all wonder how labor will start. Will it be like on t.v. where all of a sudden I will be doubled over in the worst pain of my life? Will I have an unexpected gush from between my legs while I’m shopping at target (Clean up aisle 4 anyone??)? Is it going to be unbearable where even if I planned for a natural birth I will immediately be requesting an epidural? How will my husband react- do I have a cool calm and collected partner or will he fly off the handle grabbing things as we rush out of the house headed for the hospital? Will I even be going to the hospital? Will I make it to the hospital? Should I just google, “How to remove amniotic fluid from fabric?” now? How will I know what it feels like? Will I see my mucus plug? Do I need to check the toilet paper every time, what if I miss it? Did I choose the right care provider? Do I even like them- what if I change my mind while I’m in labor?

I have barely scratched the surface of the amount of questions a new mom asks when she is in the final countdown to the big day- which of course will be on her due date because that is how we expect it to be, right? There are so many unknowns and  if we allow them to take over they can scare us during labor. The fear of the unknown is a basic and carnal fear that takes us back to childhood- wondering what was really down in the basement or under the bed--and birth is no different. Our fight or flight response takes over and we try and figure out if this is a good and safe place to give birth. With all of these questions spinning around in our heads how can we possibly slow down to focus on the task at hand- getting this baby out?

Finally, a calm voice comes in through all the static that has been created by your mind. A source of relief washes over you as someone with experience in birth lets you know that all is good and your body is doing exactly as it needs to - aiding in the descent and eventual birth of your baby. This voice can come from many places, one being a doula who is well versed in birth and with a plethora of ideas, training, and knowledge on how to move with your body and baby as they work together in labor. There is so much more than just centimeters dilated to when your body is ready to deliver this precious bundle Earthside and as a birth doula I’m here to prepare you for what is to come, let you know that you are not alone (Not even CLOSE), and to hold the space for you and your growing family. I will do my best to answer as many questions as possible and to get you good information on the things in your life that are about to change drastically, but the one thing I do not want you to feel is alone.


Your steadfast doula :)

Brandi Robertson

Brandi is a proud momma to 2 beautiful children, a birth doula and active duty military. She has traveled and lived all over the world including Japan!. When she is not supporting mommas in birth and bothering pregnant mommas at Starbucks she enjoys knitting and the occasional glass of wine. You can read more about Brandi here.