Childbirth is a unique, transformative experience that not only creates new life but also redefines relationships, especially that of partners. While the focus traditionally leans toward mothers due to their physical hardships during labor, it’s equally important to recognize the silent strength that fathers exhibit during this profound journey. Their role may appear secondary, yet
giving birth
When I found myself pregnant and preparing for the impending arrival of my first child, I faced a flood of emotions and decisions. As a 37-year-old newlywed, there was a blend of excitement and anxiety. One of the earliest questions posed by my midwife regarding my preference for delivery sparked an immediate response from me:
The recent decision by Covis Pharma to voluntarily withdraw Makena, the only FDA-approved drug for the prevention of preterm birth, has sparked a robust discourse within the healthcare community. Initially endorsed in 2011 under the FDA’s accelerated approval process, Makena was considered a beacon of hope for at-risk pregnant individuals. The drug, a synthetic form
Bringing a child into the world is often depicted as a beautiful, euphoric experience. However, the path to motherhood can be far more complex, challenging, and painful than the idealized narratives typically presented. My own experience with childbirth ended in a C-section, a scenario that unraveled my anticipated joy and replaced it with a conflicting
Pregnancy, a unique journey, brings a mix of excitement and overwhelming waiting. This final phase, notably from the last few weeks to the due date, can often feel like an eternity for both expectant mothers and their loved ones. It’s a time filled with anticipation, as well as the discomfort of physically carrying the child,
Childbirth is often perceived as a natural and joyous event, but a startling statistic reveals a darker reality: a 2023 CDC report indicates that one in five women experience some form of mistreatment during labor. The authors of this critical report note that mistreatment can manifest through a variety of harmful interactions, including the loss
As your pregnancy reaches its final stretch, anticipation often morphs into impatience. In these last weeks, many expectant mothers find themselves desperate for one thing: the onset of labor. Amidst the nursery preparations and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the impending arrival of a baby, countless rumors circulate regarding natural methods to induce labor.
The saga of childbirth is often fraught with anticipation, plans, and a sprinkle of hope. However, as was recently spotlighted by CNN news anchor Kasie Hunt, the reality can occasionally veer into the realm of the unexpected. Hunt found herself facing an unforeseen twist when she gave birth to her daughter, Grey Hunt Rivera, on
Reflecting on the birth of my son, Rye, in 2016, I realize how much has changed—not just in my life, but in the broader societal context. When I held my child for the first time, the atmosphere was charged with excitement; the nation was energized by Barack Obama’s presidency, and there was a palpable anticipation
The anticipation of labor can be a source of fear and anxiety for many expectant parents. The shared apprehension surrounding the pain of childbirth often leads individuals to seek a variety of pain management options. While traditional interventions like epidurals and spinal blocks have been standard practices aimed at alleviating labor pains, many are starting