Does Giving Birth Hurt? Out of Your Comfort ZoneGiving birth is the realization of a dream for many and a culmination of many months of discomfort for others. It is the time to reap the rewards for all of those days aching, being sick and unable to sleep. Giving birth is giving life, it is the ultimate gift we can give or receive, one for which we will cherish and love for ever. Well, that's what we're supposed to think. Actually, giving birth can be a terrifying experience for many mothers - the most common question asked amongst all moms to be is does giving birth hurt? - especially if it is their first child. Despite the increased knowledge and information available about giving birth, it is still something that is so far removed from our comfort zone, it is not surprising even the bravest among us start to sweat a little. Probably the best way to learn what giving birth is really like is to speak to your mid wife. Almost without fail, a mid wife will have their own family. So they will be able to describe giving birth from their own experience and also from the experience of helping with the delivery other women's babies. It's also possible to watch some of the lifestyle channels on television, some of these programs feature the delivery ward in a hospital, so you will get to see other women giving birth. When it comes to giving your birth, there are a number of choices you can make about where you can have your baby. The most popular is obviously a hospital, this is due to the perceived safety and closeness of medical equipment should anything unfortunate happen. I remember giving birth to my second child in the hospital and being very relieved that the emergency staff were so close by. My pregnancy term was without any form of complication throughout, however during labor and delivery something happened which meant I had to have an emergency caesarean. So it goes to show, although the majority of births are reasonably straight forward, unplanned events can and do occur, so it does pay to have a back up plan or be close to a medical team. This is especially true if you're planning on giving birth at home. Usually a home birth is a natural event without medication or medical assistance. In most situations, only a mid wife or birthing professional will be with you. Although we might feel morbid planning for something to go wrong, it does mean that you are well prepared if something does. One final thing to remember about giving birth is to try and enjoy it. Sure it will smart like crazy and you won't want to ride a bike for a few weeks, however it is truly a magical experience. The opportunity to bond with your child and form a heightened level of support with your partner is simply amazing. Also, don't forget your camera, if necessary pack two cameras, two films and lots of spare batteries, it's better to be oversubscribed in the camera department than not have any pictures to remember this most wonderful occasion by. Read more of our articles on giving birth Giving Birth and How Aging Effects Your Chances |