Rainbowzz, have you considered taking childbirth classes? They are a great place to learn with others who are curious and yes fearful about the process.

You'll learn about how to know when you're in labor, exercises to relieve the discomfort of conrtractions, and lots more about what to expect.

For me, I knew at noon that I was going to begin labor soon, when i lost the mucous plug (there may be a more proper name for that). I continued on my day, having learned from childbirth classes that typically there is plenty of time after that. A few hours later small contractions began and by 4pm they were regular enough that I was sure I was progressing. Later in the evening my water broke.

My labor didn't progress so when I went to the hospital I was given Pitocin to accelerate the contractions. It worked quick.

The pain I experienced with contractions was in my back, not pelvic. How to rate the pain? It was bearable though I asked for a small amount of medication to help. Pain medication will also relax you and the nurses and staff will be comforting you; tell them if you're scared and if you're anxious so they can help you with that.

I had no burning whatsoever when my son was coming out. I had an episiotomy (where they make an incision instead of letting the woman tear) so I wonder if the burning might come from tearing? The stitches didn't hurt a bit, not when they were putting them in and not after.

I didn't have an epidural anesthesia so I don't know about that.

Was I afraid? Oh sure, it is such an important event ! And anything that important that we do for the first time can make us scared.

I remember when I had a contraction that the way the nurses responded meant I must have passed urine or stool, but I'm not sure. They didn't conern me with that; I just remember someone saying that they did have me go to the bathroom earlier.

They are prepared for anything so you don't have to worry about anything but experiencing the wonder and anticipation of seeng your baby soon!

I hope you'll consider childbirth classes. Your doctor or hospital could tell you where some are being held. They'll teach you some breathing techniques to use during contractions that help a lot. And feeling in control will help with the anxiety.

It's such an exciting time, isn't it!