Labour pains demystified

At our latest appointment, the doctor likens labour to trying to lift up a chair while still sitting on it, writes Peter Max

We all know that there is no greater feeling than that of two people bringing forth a life into this world. That feeling, of course, is the easier part.

Having to undergo hours of intense pain in the name of childbirth must rank as the toughest experience any woman would have to go through. Myra and I were yet to go through that route although she seemed least bothered by the prospects. I guess she was just trying to put on a brave face.

Thankfully, our doc used the latest appointment to prepare me for what was to be a defining moment in my life.

“Max, do you know what women go through during childbirth? Have you any idea of what labour entails?” he asked.

The questions, I thought, must have been rhetorical. True, it’s worth everything to bear a child, but for the life of me, I could not for all intents and purposes know how it felt to go through labour. And I made sure the good doc understood that.

“Better be prepared to lose some of your fingers, bear the indignity of being called names, hear the loudest screams ever as she pulls off her hair...” said the doctor followed by a wild laugh. I must admit that he did a good job in scaring the daylights out of me.

“Hey Max, relax. It’s not all that bad. Most of those stories you have been told regarding the happenings in the delivery room are an exaggeration. Like any other medical procedure, some pain is involved, but bearable.

“Let’s say what she will go through is more like trying to lift up a chair while still sitting on it. Takes effort. In fact, most women will talk of having another child as soon as the one they are carrying is safely delivered. Ask Myra,” the doc said.

I hear some women would rather have a baby than step on a nail.

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