Labor with a preemie is easier than with a full term child?

S - posted on 04/18/2011

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Joanna - posted on 04/13/2011

I am so sorry that you are being treated that way. I have never had a preemie, but I could not imagine the emotion that would be involved. I would think that the labor would be harder because of it. Every labor is hard work, whether it is a tiny little preemie, or a 10lb full term baby.
My first was 5lb 15oz, and he was my most difficult birth. My contractions were more uncomfortable with him than my 9lb 8oz baby.

Jodi - posted on 04/13/2011

It's not very fair of people to assume your labour was easier for you. I also can't believe they used the term "lucky". Do they have ANY idea what you went through AFTER the birth? I wouldn't say you were "lucky" at all, and it must have been an extremely difficult time for your family.

With regard tot he smaller baby, however, my youngest was only 5lb, and she was out in 2 very easy pushes. I DID have an easier time of that stage. I also found my labour a bit easier. But I can't be sure if that is because she was so small or if it was because she wasn't my first.......

Anyway, good luck with the current pregnancy. If they know what caused you to have your daughter at such an early stage, you may be fine carrying to full term. I wish you the best!!

Kathryn - posted on 04/13/2011

My first was born at 35wks he was barely 5lbs, I know that isn't a real young premie like yours but I can offer a comparison. The first was intense but fairly short like one 30 min long contraction that didn't let up just got worse. I tore terribly and had a painful recovery time. Every one kept telling me next time would just be worse, I should be thankful that things went so fast. But I think they were wrong. My second child was born at 38 wks but almost 8lbs. Labor was longer (about 3 hours) but more under control. I could breathe and relax between contractions, My body was able to stretch and loosen up a bit so I didn't tear as much. I'd say the second time was def easier.

S - posted on 04/13/2011

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Sarah - posted on 04/13/2011

LMAO! My daughter was 3lbs 3oz 16"long and I got all the same nonsense told to me! Funny part is, the hospital kept trying to stop me from having her so I was in labor for 6 days. I don't care how big the baby is, 6 days of labor Sucks! Additionally, and this may be TMI, but when I finally had her, I tore sideways and about ripped my labia off. I'm sick and tired of the patronizing attitude of so many people who think birthing a preemie is like taking a walk in the park.

Currently, I am 20 weeks preggo, so I too am interested in finding out whether or not a bigger baby hurts more (if it does I'm totally screwed!) I do kinda figure that once you get to that all-encompassing pain point it really stops mattering, I mean you can only feel so much pain, right? To be honest, I just hope this one Huge and even if it hurts even worse (hard to imagine) it will be worth it. Although if it hurts less I'm Definately going to tell all those smug bitches that!!