Let's Talk About Fear

Whether it's your first time or your tenth time - pregnancy and birth can all too often carry the shadow of fear into our minds. And we should be talking about it.

Has anyone been telling you their birthing horror stories? Have you been listening to scary labor and delivery podcasts, or reading the terrifying experiences of other mamas in your Facebook groups?

If these things have been filling your heart with fear, I’m here to give you permission to STOP LISTENING.

There is a myriad of online tools, social media education, and research on pregnancy and childbirth that are all readily available right on our phones any time, at the click of a button. In fact, this constant stream of data and opinions can cause information overload! While it is so important to be educated and have realistic expectations, having fifty different influencers pouring their personal thoughts and advice into your brain can bring you anything but peace and confidence. It’s very difficult to compartmentalize all that information, and instead it's very easy to become anxious.

We know that:
Fear = tension = pain
Peace = relaxation = comfort

If you are pregnant, now is the time to guard your mind and heart from the things that cause fear. Be careful about the influence you allow in your life. Choose your mentors and guidance wisely. There is a time and place for hot topics, inflammatory articles and activism in seeking truth! But now is not that time. As you move forward, learn from the stories that are positive, hopeful and healing. Listen to the friends who encourage and support you instead of adding to your worries. Find one or two sources of education that build your confidence. Set clear boundaries around the rest. Keep your circle close and trustworthy.

Say no to the voices that bring fear.
Welcome the ones that bring peace.