When you’re pregnant, a million and 1 questions go through your head per minute – some of them more appropriate to ask than others. Some questions are, well, embarrassing! Plus, you might not want to hear the answers. We’ve all heard labor horror stories, but where do you turn to hear the truth? Just what should you expect in the throes of labor? We answer the most embarrassing birth questions here, but be warned: the answers are totally honest, so you might not like what you hear…
Should I Neaten Up My Bikini Area?
Years ago, the midwife would shave every woman when they came in to have their baby, as it was easier for the doctor to repair a cut in the event of an episiotomy. Now, it’s all totally down to your personal preference. Nobody will bat an eyelid no matter what you have down there.
Will There Be Many Internal Examinations?
If you’ve been keeping up with your prenatal care visits, you’re probably already sick of being poked and prodded. Fortunately, there won’t be as many as you’re expecting in the actual delivery room. Vaginal examinations will be limited during labor, but you’ll usually have an examination when you arrive at the hospital. After that, you may have an examination for 2-4 hours to monitor your progress. This can be uncomfortable, so discuss them with your midwife in order to understand them.
What Should I Wear When Giving Birth?
Many birthing rooms are private, so you can wear what you like or even nothing at all. Sarongs work really well. Swimming tops can also be great if you’re shy about showing your breasts. Clothing can become annoying towards the end of labor, so don’t be surprised if you want the whole lot off. Babies also love skin-to-skin contact after birth.
Will My Husband/Partner Go Off Sex if He Sees Me Give Birth from ‘Down There’?
All men are different. While some men might find it fascinating or even beautiful, some men will find it confronting to watch. You should definitely discuss this together beforehand so he knows what to expect.
Will I Poo During Labour? How Will it Be Handled?
It’s common for women to poo during labor. When your baby comes through the birth canal, there’s no room for anything else so everything else is expelled. Your midwife will have seen it many times before, so she won’t even be fazed – you might not even know you’ve done it.
Will Gas and Air Make Me Say Embarrassing Things?
Gas and air can help you to focus and take the edge off your pains. You might be a bit giggly, and you might say things that don’t make sense, but everyone around you will be glad you’re smiling. If you’re really worried about saying embarrassing things, you could always hire a Tens machine from http://www.tens.co.uk.
Will Sex Feel The Same?
You’ll need to give yourself time to heal, but yes, your sex life will return to normal. Pelvic floor exercises can be a lifesaver!
See? Childbirth isn’t that bad – women do it time and time again, so that’s got to count for something. Good luck!
