PAIN in Labour

What’s the Deal with Pain in Labour?
By Jess, Registered Midwife and Birth Educator

Let’s talk about one of the biggest questions expectant parents have when it comes to birth:
What’s the deal with pain in labour?

You may have heard all kinds of things:
🗣️ “You can have a pain-free labour.”
🗣️ “Just get the epidural.”
🗣️ “It’s the worst pain you’ll ever feel.”

So, are any of these statements true?

Well… maybe.
Each one might reflect someone’s personal experience. For that particular woman, in that moment, it could have been completely accurate.

But does it apply to everyone?
No.
Is it guaranteed for you?
Also no.

So, let’s take a deeper look at pain in labour—and what it really means.

When Do We Usually Feel Pain?

Pain is often your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right.”
We feel it when we’re hurt, sore, tired, injured, or unwell.
It’s uncomfortable. It stops us in our tracks. It makes us cautious.

So it’s understandable to think, “Pain in labour must be a bad sign.”

But here’s the twist: pain isn’t always bad.

Think About This…

Have you ever been to the gym?
Run a marathon?
Played competitive sport?
(And if not—just imagine it!)

It hurts, doesn’t it?

But is that pain bad?
No.
Did you stop the moment it got tough?
Probably not—because you had a goal.
You pushed through. You breathed, moved, focused, and kept going. You probably even felt proud of yourself afterwards.

What About Labour?

Labour is no different.
In a healthy, physiological labour, the sensations you’re feeling are the muscles of your uterus working hard. They’re opening your cervix, moving your baby down, and helping you bring life into the world.

This pain isn’t because something is wrong.
It’s because something incredible is happening.

This is your body working for you—not against you.
And the goal?
The best one ever: meeting your baby.

Can Labour Be Pain-Free?

It can be, for some. With the right preparation, tools, and mindset, some women describe birth as intense, powerful, or even euphoric—not painful.

But is it guaranteed?
No.
Is it likely?
Probably not.
And that’s okay.

Because pain-free isn’t the goal.

My Goal for You Is This:

🌸 That you’re prepared.
🌸 That you have a strong mindset.
🌸 That you learn practical tools and techniques.
🌸 That your birth partner is confident and supportive.
🌸 That you know what’s important to you.
🌸 That you can make informed decisions.
🌸 That you feel in control.
🌸 That you feel confident.
🌸 That you feel excited.

Labour isn’t something to fear—it’s something to understand, prepare for, and embrace.

That’s exactly what I teach in my hypnobirthing classes. We go beyond pain—we dive into the physiology of birth, how to work with your body, how to create a supportive environment, and how to approach birth feeling calm, supported and empowered.

Because birth doesn’t have to be something that happens to you.
You can be an active, informed part of it.

Ready to feel strong, confident, and ready for birth? Join me for The Positive Birth Program—designed for you and your birth partner to learn everything you need for a positive, powerful experience. 💛

Keep an eye out for Part 2 coming soon…