As I prepared to bring my first child into the world, the initial notion of labor felt both exhilarating and overwhelming. The conversation with my midwife quickly turned to my preferences for delivery, where I instinctively declared, “I don’t want an epidural.” This response stemmed from a cascade of societal expectations and a deep-rooted fear
giving birth
In a significant shift in maternal healthcare, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel has concluded that Makena, a progesterone injection touted as the sole approved preventive treatment for preterm birth, is ineffective. This announcement has led Covis Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Makena, to voluntarily withdraw the drug from the market after more than
The path to motherhood is often lined with excitement and dreams of a perfect delivery. For many, this ideal doesn’t always match reality, as illustrated in the experience of those who undergo C-sections. I find myself grappling with a complex relationship to my C-section scar, one that embodies both the joy of motherhood and the
The experience of pregnancy is often idealized and romanticized, depicting glowing mothers-to-be enjoying every moment of their journey to motherhood. Yet, the reality can be far more complex, especially when faced with the unexpected challenges of extended gestation. One mother’s story highlights the rollercoaster of emotions and physical tribulations that can accompany an unusually long
Childbirth is an extraordinary and intense experience that can be marred by instances of mistreatment. A recent 2023 CDC report accentuates a critical issue: one in five women report facing some form of mistreatment during labor. This underlines the urgent need to address the experiences of women who encounter disrespect or lack of autonomy in
Pregnancy can feel like a marathon, particularly as the due date meanders closer and closer without bringing forth the anticipated arrival of a newborn. For expectant mothers who find themselves in the throes of late pregnancy, the desire to encourage labor intensifies, prompting a quest for natural induction methods. Among various strategies that range from
Life has a way of disrupting our meticulously crafted plans, especially in the context of childbirth. CNN news anchor Kasie Hunt’s recent experience epitomizes that unpredictability when she gave birth to her daughter, Grey, in an unexpected and breathtaking scenario. Initially scheduled for a C-section, Hunt found herself navigating an astonishing series of events that
The act of bringing a new life into the world is often heralded as a moment of profound joy and personal triumph. Yet, for many, this experience can be overshadowed by systemic failures within the healthcare system. My birth experience with my son, Rye, in 2016 starkly showcased these pitfalls, reinforcing the urgent need for
For many expectant mothers, the impending reality of labor is often shrouded in fear and uncertainty. Going through pregnancy can present numerous emotional challenges as they contemplate the delivery process. This anxiety can be heightened by concerns about pain management, the physical experience of childbirth, and the level of control they can maintain during their
The act of giving birth is profoundly personal, enveloped in emotions as varied as the individuals bringing new life into the world. Each childbirth experience stands on its own, with a myriad of factors influencing the journey from conception to delivery. While some women may experience childbirth that follows familiar patterns previously encountered, many mothers