When you think about childbirth, what comes to mind? Chaotic hospital scenes? Screams of agony? Hollywood has shaped much of the collective imagery surrounding birth—but what if there’s a better, more empowering story to tell?
In this episode, we’re diving into the three biggest myths about childbirth:
Birth is always painful and traumatic.
Medical intervention is always necessary.
You have no control over your birth experience.
We’re busting these myths wide open with evidence-based insights, actionable tips, and empowering truths about what your body is truly capable of. You’ll learn how to navigate childbirth with confidence, advocate for your preferences, and shift your mindset for a more positive experience.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why pain in childbirth isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience—and how mindset and hormones like oxytocin and endorphins can shape your perception of it.
The impact of medical interventions on labor and how informed choice can lead to smoother births.
Practical ways to reclaim your power during birth, from creating a supportive environment to mastering advocacy with your birth team.
Listen to the episode now:
When you think about childbirth, what pops into your head? Is it a scene from a movie—chaotic hospital rushes, blood-curdling screams, or a dramatic "push" moment? Maybe it’s the word contraction, accompanied by a gut-level clench of fear? For many, these images have been shaped more by Hollywood than by reality, creating a narrative drenched in fear and misunderstanding.
As a childbirth educator, I’m here to tell you: childbirth doesn’t have to be scary, traumatic, or out of your control. Let’s talk about what no one tells you about birth. Let’s break through the myths.
Myth #1: Birth Is Always Painful and Traumatic
It’s no surprise that so many people equate childbirth with pain. Look at media portrayals: sweat-drenched, screaming women, dire emergencies, or tragic complications. Positive, empowering births rarely make it to the screen.
But here’s the truth: pain in childbirth isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Your body’s natural hormones—like oxytocin and endorphins—play a huge role. Oxytocin, the "love hormone," helps progress labor, while endorphins—your body’s natural painkillers—help manage discomfort. Many people report sensations of intensity, pressure, or stretching rather than outright pain.
Even when there is discomfort, it doesn’t have to feel traumatic. Mindset matters. When we fear pain, our bodies respond with tension, often intensifying it. Instead, preparing your mind with tools like mindfulness and reframing language (think waves or surges instead of contractions) can transform your experience. Check out our podcast episode on curbing labor pain naturally if you want to dive deeper.
Myth #2: Medical Intervention Is Always Necessary
In the U.S., childbirth often takes place in an over-medicalized system. About half of all labors involve induction, and nearly one-third result in cesarean births, even though research suggests the ideal rate should be closer to 23.6%.
This isn’t to say medical interventions are bad—they can be lifesaving when necessary. But unnecessary interventions can disrupt the natural flow of labor, introducing risks without clear benefits. For most low-risk pregnancies, fewer interventions often lead to smoother births.
What’s most important is informed choice. Whether you have a low-intervention birth or require medical assistance, understanding your options and making decisions based on your preferences and needs will empower you. You’re the leader of your birth team—your voice matters.
Myth #3: You Have No Control Over Your Birth Experience
Many people feel powerless in the face of hospital policies or provider recommendations. But you have more control than you might think. From choosing your care provider and birth location to creating a birth plan and advocating for your preferences, you can take ownership of your experience.
Advocacy starts with understanding your rights. You don’t have to accept every intervention or decision passively. A great childbirth education course will prepare you to navigate these moments with confidence and clarity.
The Three Truths About Birth
Now that we’ve busted some myths, let’s focus on the empowering truths about childbirth:
Your Body Is Built for This Your body is an incredible, shape-shifting marvel. It’s designed to birth your baby. Even in rare cases where medical assistance is needed, your body will communicate its needs. Trust that communication.
Education and Preparation Matter Understanding the birth process, potential interventions, and comfort measures makes a world of difference. Don’t just rely on basic classes—find comprehensive childbirth education that equips you with tools for mindfulness, pain management, and advocacy.
Support Is Key Surround yourself with people who uplift you, from a knowledgeable doula to a supportive partner and a trusted medical team. When your support network is strong, you’ll feel safer, calmer, and more empowered.
Practical Steps to Reframe Birth
Here are some actionable ways to shift your mindset about birth:
Change Your Language: Words matter. Replace pain with intensity, labor with birthing time, and delivery with giving birth.
Explore Affirmations: Try mantras like “I trust my body to birth my baby” or “I am strong and capable.” Write them on sticky notes and place them where you’ll see them daily.
Create Your Ideal Birth Environment: Whether it’s at home, a birthing center, or a hospital, think about what makes you feel safe. Consider music, aromatherapy, or lighting to ground your nervous system.
Practice Advocacy: Learn how to communicate effectively with medical professionals. You’re the leader of your birth team—own that role with empathy and confidence.
Where to Start
Reflect on your own beliefs about birth. What fears or assumptions do you hold? A great way to start unpacking these is by using my free Fear Clearing Guide (available at clearlyatbirth.com/fear).
Next, consider enrolling in a comprehensive childbirth education class, hiring a doula, or exploring evidence-based books. And don’t forget to check out our podcast for deep dives into topics like creating a comfortable birth environment and advocating for your preferences.
Let’s rewrite the narrative around childbirth together. You deserve a birth experience that feels informed, empowered, and uniquely yours.
Thank You for Listening
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