12 Things You Should Expect When Giving Birth

If this is your first pregnancy, you may be wondering what to expect when you deliver your baby. You are probably filled with both excitement and anxiety. And since it’s your first time, you probably have a lot of questions about what is to come.

If you are a veteran mom, then I’m sure some of the points below will bring back memories. Perhaps, you might even chuckle at times, when funny memories come flooding in of the day you gave birth.

Here are some things you should expect when giving birth.

1. So many people will check your kitty

From doctors, to nurses, to the interns. If you are giving birth vaginally, everyone is going to need to check you and see how things are progressing. If this is your first pregnancy, it might be a little weird at first.  You’ll soon realize that it is not a big deal, that they are taking care of you and your baby to make sure you have a safe delivery.

2. Medical staff will ask you the same questions multiple times

I know it can be frustrating, having to repeat yourself so many times, but do not get annoyed.

The doctor, nurses, anesthesiologist, and everyone else that will be involved in your care, will ask you the same questions multiple times. They will go over your allergies, medical treatment specifications, name, date of birth, and other questions separate.

This is to ensure that they have the right person, also to avoid any mistakes that could put you in danger. So, just be patient, it is for your own safety.

3. The nurses might shave you

If needed, they might shave you. Sometimes they might do it if you are getting prepped for a C-Section or as you are getting ready to have a vaginal birth. They need to make sure that there’s no hair in the way, this prevents infection in case they need to use sutures.

But do not stress about it because they do not care if you are “all-natural” and haven’t shaved in months. The nurses and doctor’s only focus is delivering your baby safely.

4. You might pass a bowel movement

If you are giving birth vaginally it’s very common to poop while you are pushing. Do not be embarrassed about this and don’t stress about it. They will clean it up very quickly and discreetly.

This is a normal and natural thing; the nurses and doctors see this every day and it’s nothing to them. So don’t worry, it’s all good.

After birth

5. Hospital staff will take care of your hygiene

They will clean you up and put a pad on for you. They will also help you get into your underwear and anything that you need assistance with. Rely on them for whatever you need. They are trained to help you without causing injury and keep you comfortable. While you are in the hospital, they will be your best friends and are going to make sure you are ok.

6. You will be asked if you passed gas, had a bowel movement, and if you have urinated

You cannot be discharged from the hospital until you do. The nurses will monitor all your bodily functions. They might ask you these questions even if you have guests in your room. It can be a little uncomfortable your first time around because it will feel invasive to be so vulnerable, but it is for your own good. They are just making sure that you are recuperating well and that everything is working as it should.

7. Using the bathroom may make you nervous

The first time that you go to the bathroom with the intent to make a bowel movement, you may feel a little nervous. If you had a natural birth, you might feel very sore. Even peeing might feel uncomfortable because it may cause a burning sensation.

If you had a c-section, you will be recuperating from major surgery and might be sore. It can be uncomfortable, and it might even hurt to go to the bathroom and push.

But do not worry, you will be given a stool softener to help you with your bowel movements. That way you don’t have to work so hard, and you will feel more comfortable.

8. You will bleed after, but is not your period yet

This is totally normal and lasts for a few days, so don’t freak out. Your period will come anytime between 2- 12 weeks after you have given birth. The bleeding that you will experience is called Lochia. This is the lining of your uterus that is being discarded after the baby is born, because your uterus does not need it anymore.

However, even though bleeding is normal, there are some things you should be on the lookout for. The National Childbirth Trust says “If you pass a lot of large blood clots or more than a pint of blood in the first 24 hours, talk to a health professional immediately”.

So, if you have any concerns, or simply have a question, do not hesitate to bring it up with your doctor and your nurses during your hospital stay.

9. You won’t get to sleep peacefully

Not only because of the baby, but because of the nurses! They will come in to check up on you and take your vitals multiple times throughout the night.  They do try their best to not startle you, but they need to make sure everything is going well with you.

Cooperate with your nurses and their aides. They are there to help.

Special thanks: A big Thank you to all Nurses and Aides that take care of us during such a vulnerable time. You guys are the best!

10. You won’t be embarrassed

You will not even spend a second on thoughts of embarrassment. Your focus will be more on giving birth and recuperating. Instead, you will be so thankful for being taken care of and for all the people that will be making sure you are ok and healthy.

11. You will still look pregnant

Yeap, your belly just doesn’t go back to pre-pregnancy right away. It might take a few weeks before your body settles into place.

Also, please know that the whole idea that your body “bounces back” is not the rule. That highly depends on your genetics. Some women look like they were never even pregnant a few months shortly after giving birth. They do not have stretch marks or loose skin. While other women, may never “bounce back”.

Just focus on what’s more important. Your body was a vessel used for bringing your baby into this world. That’s all that matters. No matter how your body may change, you are still beautiful and your body reflects the incredible journey you have been on.

12. You might experience the “Baby Blues”

You might’ve been dreaming of this day for many years, the day when you get to hold your child in your arms and finally become a mom. But you might be surprised that instead of feeling overwhelming joy, you feel… kinda sad. This is completely normal. After giving birth, your hormones are all over the place and this might make you feel a little weepy and not completely yourself.

March of Dimes says that “Up to 4 in 5 new parents (80 percent) have the baby blues”. It’s very common for mothers to experience them after giving birth. So, rest assured that there is nothing wrong with you, this is normal, and you are not the only one experiencing it.

However, if you begin to feel intense feelings of sadness, fear, or overwhelmed, talk to your partner or a medical professional. As these could be signs of Postpartum Depression.

Click here to read this post by March of Dimes that gives more detail information on the Baby Blues, what you can do, and when it’s time to reach out to a medical professional.

Giving birth is such an exciting and joyous occasion, but it also puts a lot of stress on your body and mind. Remember to be kind to yourself and accept the help of those around you that want to lend you a hand. After giving birth, you will feel vulnerable and not completely yourself. That is completely normal too.

Focus on healing and regaining your strength. While at the same time, enjoying your baby, delighting on their little coos, and embarking on this new journey called Motherhood.

Psss… You might be interested in reading To The First-Time Mom.