Becoming a Mum (Mom) again at 40

Australia
January 14, 2008 2:05am CST
Okay, I'm 40 and also 5 months pregnant, this will be my 7th child and I am terrified, I couldn't bring myself to have an abortion. What, I would like to know, is there anyone out there that could help me with this fear, the fear I think is the labour, I remember every part of the pain of Labour that I went through. The last child I had was 12 years ago.
2 people like this
6 responses
@Sissygrl (10912)
• Canada
14 Jan 08
Well i think there are better medications to help you through the labour part now a day. I would think after 7 children you would be a PRO! :) hehe i am on number two at 27, and i'm done after this one. Congrats on your preg btw. I am sure everything will work out fine for you! i had a c section last time, and will be having another one this time. I sort of feel like i cheated as a woman lol, i had no labour pains, no pushing no ripping, no stitches, I feel like i am lucky to have the c sections, although i know that a lot of women feel resentment when they need to have one, i do not mind at all! infact i opted for the second one!
• Australia
15 Jan 08
I may also try for a C-section, I have never had that done. I have a set of twin boys, that should have arrived C-section, but they had other plans. Thankyou for the response.
1 person likes this
@eden32 (3973)
• United States
21 Jan 08
"I may also try for a C-section, I have never had that done." I think if pain is the root of your fear, a section is not the answer. A c-section requires such a long recovery period, the chances of secondary infection are higher & you could have life-long issues arise from a section. If it's needed, that's one thing but elective c-sections aren't usually a good idea.
1 person likes this
@Sissygrl (10912)
• Canada
21 Jan 08
Eden, I beg to differ. i know many people who have had c sections, ( in small towns we have a lot more sections in canada at least, i'm not sure why, my doula mentioned something about doctors not wanting their golf games on the weekends disrupted...) and although they do have a longer recovery time, but for me at least, it was well worth it. I did n't have a problem gettin around afterwards i was up walking 24 hours afterwards and only taking T3s. they were ready to send me home after 42 hours. I would SO much rather do the c section then natural ;) I think its a matter of preference.
@Ohara_1983 (4117)
• Kuwait
14 Jan 08
wow, its to long since you become pregnant again dont worry my friend, pain is just in your mind he he he, lot of doctors to help you about it dont worry just say inhale & exchale that doctor said with sweet smile good luck to you.
• Australia
15 Jan 08
Pain is not only in the mind, on Labour Day. I wish it were. Thanks for the response.
@maximax8 (31044)
• United Kingdom
21 Jan 08
I have a 12 year old and an 8 month old baby. I am 35 years old. You could try a water birth or a relaxing home birth. I had a birth with a pool of water and gas and air. That lasted 8 hours. I had a birth with no pain relief. That lasted two and a half hours. Yes, I had a 12 year gap and was worried about the May 2007 birth. It was quick and I only had 20 minutes of strong pain. Good luck.
@squaretile (3778)
• Singapore
22 Jan 08
glad that you decided to keep the child. Don't worry too much, exercise more and keep healthy. Mums who walk regularly to get exercise usually have easier births cos their bodies are stronger. Also don't focus on the pain. Focus on the fact that you are bringing a brand new life into the world! Take care and all the best!
@madasp (563)
• United States
26 Jan 08
I'm the youngest of 7 and my mom was 38 when she had me. There is a 6 year gap between me and my brother. My mom says although I was far from planned she never regretted me and i'm definately glad she chose not to terminate. there are way more options for pain these days so I wouldn't worry about that.good luck!
• Singapore
27 Jan 08
Congratulations wend67, a baby is a gift from God... dont be afraid He wont give it to you if it will be bad for you... I have an aunt, she gave birth at 42 also... at first she's also thinking of giving up the baby... but she decided to go on...Now she's happy with his son... he gives him so much joy... dont worry about giving birth with the new technologies nowadays there are some hospitals that can make your labor easier... ive heard of my friend giving birth while she is asleep... it is a normal delivery... so why not ask your obstetrician about this... goodluck.. and be strong... Godbless...