Sharing Your Birth Story

Recently I was introduced to some new websites that have been giving me such courage and inspiration when it comes to the upcoming birth of my second son. Like with so many things in life, I wasn't prepared to handle the unknown, the uncertainties, and the emotional roller coaster of giving birth.  Sure, I read a lot of articles, books, subscribed to daily newsletters, and even took some classes to help prepare me.  I created a birth plan that fit my needs, expectations, and desires of giving birth. But, of course as we know, things do not always go according to our plans. When it came down to it, I was completely unprepared for this life event. Looking back it seems like I did everything wrong, and nothing went as planned. I am grateful to have a positive outcome of healthy mother and healthy baby, but this time around, things will be planned much differently.

So many things that contribute to me believing that my experience was a traumatic one. From my last week of pregnancy being on bed rest, to my labor & delivery which ended in a c-section, to my first week home. All of these events caused so much trauma and pain, when all I wanted to do was take care of my first baby. Not only was my body in shock, but my whole mind and emotional well being was completely thrown off from the events that occurred. Although it was never diagnosed, there is no doubt in my mind that I didn't experience mild post partum/postnatal depression.  I wasn't prepared, educated, or in control of many things that caused such pain and heartache in the weeks, months, and even years to come. 
  
With the help of supportive Mommy Friends, internet support groups/blogs, and just continuously talking about my first birthing experience, I hope to come out of this next labor/delivery with a completely different perspective and outlook on how I brought my second child into this world.  Talking to others and even just listening to other women's experiences has made such a huge difference already. Surrounding myself with others who are willing to listen, and give support is key. Those who don't want to hear my story, or give support, then I quickly just change the subject because I'd rather hear nothing from them, then anything negative.  I may sound like I'm "snippy" or even unreasonable with my requests for my next birth, but this time around, I want it MY way (MY more aware, more confident, and more educated way!).

Resources/Websites:

http://birthwithoutfearblog.com/

http://ican-online.org/