The anticipation of child birth has caused women anxiety since the dawn of time. The unknown can cause your anxiety to be more frequent and intense. Therefore, it is important to empower yourself by becoming as informed as possible about the pregnancy and upcoming birth. Consider asking the following, lesser-known questions prior to going into labor. That way, you can get a better idea of what you can expect when you are delivering your baby.

Question #1: What should you anticipate as far as using the bathroom during labor?

Many women get an embarrassing surprise during labor; the force that is exerted often makes them release feces right there while trying to give birth. Don't worry, though. The doctors and nurses have probably seen that hundreds of times.  It's a lesser-known but normal part of childbirth. The situation can be embarrassing, but speaking about it with your obstetrician and getting the details on what you can expect can help lessen the sting.

Question #2: Is it okay to make love around the time a birth is anticipated?

A lot of couples enjoy a very healthy love life up until the day that the woman goes into labor, but this is different for every couple. You need to speak to your doctor about what is okay in your specific situation. Your doctor will be able to discuss what is right for your pregnancy, and you don't have to worry about embarrassing yourself. An obstetrician has likely dealt with all kinds of personal questions about reproductive matters each day for years. It may surprise you that you should not have intercourse after the water has broken, although there are many scenes in novels and films that speak about how doing so will speed up the labor.

Question #3: How will you know that your water has broken?

Many women skip this question because they just assume that it will be obvious. Although it is oftentimes portrayed in movies as a huge puddle that suddenly appears on the floor between a woman's legs, your water may break in a much less dramatic way. In fact, it may be look like you are peeing yourself. That is the kind of flow that happens. It may also "break" more than once and continue throughout the day. It may help to talk to your obstetrician about how you will know and what you should do immediately after discovering that your water has broken.

Finally, keep in mind that there is no reason for your bundle of joy to leave you feeling like a bundle of nerves. Ask your obstetrician any questions that you have, and start a great discussion with these questions. From there, you may be inspired to further inquire about your own unique situation. The more you know, the more assured you will be during labor. To start asking your questions, contact services like Bee Ridge Obstetrics Gynecology. 

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