I only had one internal, and she didn't look. Didn't hurt either, just a bit uncomfortable. Afterwards, midwife said that my colon was quite full, and offered an enema, but at the time I was having strong contractions every 3 mins, and really didn't fancy it - just wanted to get on with the job!

I ended up pooing while pushing the baby out. We were in the shower, me on all fours, hubby holding showerhead on my lower back, OB and midwife "behind" me at the business end (sorry if TMI! Just thought you could use the mental picture!). I only know I'd pooed because the OB asked for the shower head off my husband so that she could rinse the bits down the drain!!!!! LOL (then and now!).

I am not a very body-shy person, and never miss a pap smear, but I wasn't at all inhibited giving birth. However, I did find the checks afterwards (I'd had a few stitches and was very bruised) a bit unpleasant - this is when they did look! - but only touched very gently. I just wanted to be left alone to heal (but I know it was necessary).

G