Is it normal to be terrified of delivering a second child?
Okay, I'll admit that this may come out as more of a rant or vent, but I have some real questions!
I'm almost 39 weeks pregnant, and I have a c-section scheduled for this monday (the 20th). Apparently a VBAC is too risky in my situation, since I had a c-section last time and my doctor anticipates I would have issues with a VBAC. I've accepted this. However, as the day gets closer and closer, I get more and more scared.
I know in my head that I've been through this before, and that I can handle it. I know what to expect, and I trust my doctor. But I think knowing what to expect might be what's scaring me. I am absolutely terrified of the pain of recovery. Last time, when they told me I had to have a c-section, I was just relieved that the hours of labor were over and that I was going to get to hold my daughter. I wasn't thinking about the pain, the incision, the limitations I'd have for weeks. This time, that's ALL I can think about.
Don't get me wrong, I'm so excited that in a few short days I'll get to meet my new baby. But when I think about how hard the recovery was for me (being a plus-size woman, it was exceptionally difficult, and now I weigh even more because I never lost the baby weight between pregnancies) I get so scared. It seems like everything hurts more this pregnancy, and I don't know if I can handle it if my c-section recovery is more painful as well.
My hubby is trying to be sympathetic, as is my mother, but in their minds I've already been through this once so it should be easier this time. And maybe it should. But I get so worked up thinking about it.
Anyway, to the "real questions."
If you had a second c-section, did you find the recovery to be easier or harder?
Did you worry more about delivering the second time around?
Do you think my extra anxiety might come from my worrying about how my daughter's going to react to a new baby? I feel like they're two different worries, but who knows. I know I'm very worried about how I'll care for her while I'm recovering, but I'll have help.
Just thought it might make some people chuckle to hear that Y!Answers thinks this belongs in Health > Dental =D