It sounds like you are quite scared about the whole birthing process, and understandably so as our mothers, sisters and friends often only tell us the horror stories and none of the nice bits.

For the record my longest labour was 9 hours, none of my births were painful, and I always had a quick discharge. My story is not unique, many many women do not find giving birth to be the worst day of their life. If fact, many many women will simply describe it as the best.

May I suggest you look to do a birth preparation course such as HypnoBirthing or Calmbirthing to help you mentally prepare for birth. Hospital birth classes are excellent for the technical aspects of labour but so often fail to deal with the emotional side of things. Also consider hiring a doula to provide support if you feel you will be embarrassed with your OH there. he can still be there but in a less full on role if that would make you and him more comfortable.

And lastly please don't worry too much about the birth. Enjoy your pregnancy and nurturing your baby.

T
xx