Whether you transfer from home or birth centre to the hospital delivery suite, or from your planned hospital to another hospital (or even the delivery suite to the operating theatre), the unexpected move can provoke a waterfall of emotional reactions. Adjustments are needed regarding your perceptions of the birth as well as relating to a different environment and new caregivers. For some parents changing from working with 1-2 caregivers, to possibly 5 and up to 7 caregivers, can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if complications are unfolding.
Depending on how you feel about the transfer, there may be relief that things have changed (or disappointment that the labour is not going as you planned). If complications are unfolding, you may feel panic, or fear, because you are unwell, or concerned that something could be wrong with your baby. Feelings of being out of control are common when the circumstances change very quickly.
It is very different if the request for transfer is made by the woman for pain relief (or intervention). The decision is hers and she is normally more than ready to move and change her surroundings, to receive the help she feels she needs. However, it is different and can be very difficult when the transfer is due to complications that can affect the health and outcomes for the woman, or her baby.
Listed below are some emotional reactions that can be experienced if there are complications for the woman and / or her baby.