Puppies - kudos to you for articulating what many feel.

We live in a technically advanced society with huge emotional and social deficits. Never is this quite as apparent as when we discuss/experience birth.

There is so much fear and drama when birth is discussed (often). People seem to love to tell you how "bad" it was - having seen a LOT of births - rarely is the reality so dramatic.

Your body is incredible - amazing and efficient. Your body was designed to birth your baby - but as with all journey's of the soul it can be painful. Courage, support and faith is required.

Birth goes well MOST of the time. Educate yourself to the what if's of c/section but KNOW that if you are educated, if you are supported thru labour by a woman that is known to you and trusted by you (a doula, midwife) the most likely outcome is a healthy baby and an intact mother.

I believe (this may be out there for some but humour me...) that in the corner of every room where a woman births there is the essence/spirits of wise woman. Birthing is the ultimate spiritual event - a true miracle in progress. We DO NOT do it alone - but we are responsible for planning this birth meticulously. In the west we spend countless dollars on a wedding - countless hours planning every detail down to the ink on the place cards - which is all well and good. We need to do that with our births. We are responsible for setting up good support for the labour and afterwards - for having the birthing environment just how we would like it. This is a huge event in a woman (and man's life) - treat it with the sacredness it deserves! Education is important. Loving, gentle and educated women to guide you thru your journey are not "just nice extras" - they are imperitive.

Believe in your body - it is the same design as all the women who have gone before you. Believe in the journey - for birth is part of your journey as a woman.

Truly know that you really can do this. Smell your baby's hair, feel the pressure in your perineum. Yell YES!

I know it's a favourite of mine - but can I say it again... Your head gives birth before your Hoo Haa. So train your mind and love your body....

ETA: I have birthed 5 babies through my vagina and two surgically.

Nothing in all of this world compares to the bliss that is experienced when you push your child out and meet her for the first time. Nothing - it is truly the most amazing experience. I had 5 really powerful vaginal births - one quite challenging one. But each I had the support of loving, educated women to help my on my journey...