Hello, She Knows Best.
I’m reaching out for advice as I navigate a challenging pregnancy, and I’m feeling overwhelmed by the choices ahead. Please be kind and supportive in your replies, this is my first pregnancy, and I do not have extended family or friends to ask.
I’m currently 28 weeks along and have been classified as “high-risk” due to gestational hypertension. My doctor has recommended more frequent monitoring and potential early delivery, which has left me feeling very, very anxious. On top of that, I’ve been experiencing severe anxiety about the actual delivery. I’ve heard stories of difficult births, and the thought of complications is weighing heavily on my mind.
My husband is incredibly supportive, but he’s also worried and doesn’t know how to help me feel more at ease. I’ve also read mixed things about the benefits of a home birth versus a hospital birth for high-risk pregnancies, which adds to my confusion.
I guess I’m struggling and want to ask all of the mum’s out there for some advice. How do you cope with anxiety surrounding labour and delivery, especially when facing potential complications?
For those who have had high-risk pregnancies, what resources or support did you find most helpful? How did you decide on the right birth plan, and what factors influenced your decision between home birth and hospital?
I would appreciate all of your insights or personal experiences that everyone is willing to share. Thank you so much for your support!
@newmumknowsbest
Hey newmumknowsbest darling, I can only imagine how overwhelming it must feel to be classified as “high-risk” during your pregnancy. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone—many women, including myself have navigated this challenge with the right care and support so you are not on your own in your worry and fears. I think you should really lean on your healthcare team because they are there to guide you through this and to ensure both your health and your baby’s health are closely monitored. I would advise you to be gentle with yourself, and prioritise yourself by following medical advice and resting when needed. Join community prenatal baby groups and don’t hesitate to express your concerns or fears—they are totally valid. You are strong, take it one step at a time and congratulations to you during this very special and life changing period in your life xxxxx
@newmumknowbest – It’s natural to feel worried, but remember that being high-risk doesn’t mean something will 100% go wrong—it just means your medical professionals will be even more extra careful in monitoring you and your baby. I think you should follow your doctor’s advice, take care of yourself because extra stress and worry is not good for you or your baby. I wish I could hug you and help ease some of your worries. I was so so terrified throughout my whole pregnancy. I had to constantly be reassured that everything was okay and that baby is okay. Its such a scary but wonderful time, I send you love x teeteeknowsbest xx
hello girlfriend, I had a high-risk pregnancy and believe me it’s so important to follow the doctor’s advice. I don’t have all the answers but I want to share what helped me so that it helps you my dear. Honestly, I made sure I attend all appointments, every single one and rested when I needed. It was hard because I was so sad and worried about the baby but if you surround yourself with trusted support and positive people and oh please please focus on managing stress levels. Stress is the worst for you and for the baby. Tell people no if it makes you feel better dear, who cares if they are not happy to hear this but you are number one priority right now. You will be the amazing mama, and trust your body and yourself. We women are amazing!! c
@newmumknowsbest, hey there. Congratulations girl! It’s completely normal to feel anxious about labor, especially if it’s your first time. I was really anxious too, everyone kept telling me this and that and I got so overwhelmed. I would say that its important to consider attending antenatal classes, reading up on the process, or having a chat with your midwife to better understand what to expect. Honestly, it’s totally okay to feel nervous. Labor is a big deal!!!! But a woman body is amazing and we have the strength to handle it! Before you know it, you’ll be holding your baby and it’s the best feeling! In San Diego, I can recommend contacting Scripps Health, they helped me find amazing classes and this helped me so much!