As I stood on the precipice of becoming a mother, scaling the looming cliffs of anticipation and dread, my first instinct was a fervent desire to avoid epidural anesthesia. At 37 years old and newlywed, my anxiety about needles was eclipsed only by the societal pressures surrounding childbirth. I imagined my story heralded as a
giving birth
The recent decision by Covis Pharma to withdraw Makena, a progesterone injection touted for its potential to prevent preterm births, marks a significant moment in maternal healthcare. This decision follows an advisory panel’s conclusion that the drug, originally given accelerated approval by the FDA in 2011, lacks proven effectiveness. This article aims to delve into
Giving birth is often glamorized as a powerful experience, overflowing with joy and fulfillment. However, beneath that often rosy depiction, lies a myriad of personal stories that reflect both the triumphs and challenges of motherhood. One of the most profound aspects of this journey is the physical and emotional aftermath of childbirth, particularly when that
Pregnancy is often heralded as one of the most transformative experiences in a woman’s life, filled with anticipation and excitement. However, the anticipation can turn into a challenging emotional roller coaster, especially as the due date approaches. The experience of seemingly interminable waiting can be overwhelming, and during this anxious time, interactions with well-meaning friends
Recent findings from a 2023 report by the CDC reveal an alarming truth: approximately 20% of women report experiencing mistreatment during labor. This disheartening statistic, compounded by the emotional and physical stresses of childbirth, highlights the urgent need for dialogue and action surrounding respectful maternity care. Mistreatment may manifest as a loss of autonomy, verbal
As the days tick agonizingly closer to the due date, pregnant women often find themselves in a limbo of anticipation and curiosity. The excitement of welcoming a newborn often gives way to the frustration of waiting—perhaps the nursery is ready, the hospital bag is packed, and yet the baby remains snug inside. In this stressful
No matter how meticulously life is planned, there are moments when unpredictability takes the reins, sometimes in the most astonishing ways. This was the case for CNN anchor Kasie Hunt, whose recent experience of giving birth on her bathroom floor has become the talk of social media and news platforms alike. Although she had carefully
The birth of my son Rye in 2016 feels like a distant memory, a moment frozen in time against a backdrop of political change and social hope. The optimism that permeated the air during Obama’s presidency, combined with the expectation of Hillary Clinton leading the nation, provided a sense of visibility and potential progress for
The journey into motherhood is fraught with emotions, and for many, the dread of labor pain is a significant concern. With numerous pain management options available, understanding which methods provide the best balance of relief, control, and safety can be overwhelming. Among the choices, nitrous oxide—commonly known as laughing gas—is experiencing a notable revival in
Childbirth is not merely a medical event; it is a deeply personal and transformative journey. Much like the children who are brought into the world, every birth experience is singular and inimitable. While many women may find their later pregnancies following a similar pattern to earlier ones, countless mothers share accounts of diverse and distinct