You guys, what is giving birth like?
I have a recurring nightmare.
Every few months, it jolts me awake, and I find myself lathered in a nervous sweat.
That nightmare is about giving birth.
The prospect of squeezing a human out of my vagina hole, which for many years wouldn’t even take kindly to a tampon, or having a baby surgically removed from my uterus, is enough to make me panic.
Like really panic.
I. Wanted. Answers. I wanted to know HOW much it hurts. I wanted to know if part of you, just a tiny little bit, resents your child for the pain they put you through. I wanted to know if that thing happened with the tearing of the bit between your you-know-what and your you-know-what.
I interviewed three experts in the office, within earshot of a colleague who is about to have her first baby (…sorry).
So, what does it feel like?
Like having your fingers chopped off, one by one.
Somehow, I don’t think I’ve had the last of those nightmares.
What It Means To Give Birth On Country
The Delivery Room
Top Comments
I believe I have a high tolerance to pain. I knew my baby was going to be small so I was prepared to give birth naturally.......well, I had to be induced and the initial contractions were unbearable stomach cramps which soon became unbearable tailbone pain, like I was being stabbed. This occurred every 2 mins for 10 hours. I did mention an epidural early on but the nurse said I was doing fine and it will be over soon, it wasn't. I couldn't talk due to the pain so I couldn't ask for one when I needed it. I had an episiotomy which was pain free at the time of birth but soooo painful afterwards and for 2 months afterwards. But my baby is beautiful and healthy and I can now say it was worth it all......although I am scared to go through it all again.
My first baby was 10lb 3oz, and I'm 5'3/slightly built...
It definitely didnt feel like a "big poo", more like crippling period pain, feeling like you're trying to pass an oversized watermelon and being ripped in half, where I genuinely (towards the end) thought I was going to die. Had an episiotomy because bub was distressed (do not recommend it), and my waterworks area has never been the same since (even now, I still pee myself when I run). That said, totally worth it for my beautiful little girl.
No surprise, I opted to have c-section's with 2 &3!