#298 | Is Childbirth Painful?

January 8, 2025

Send us a text

Is childbirth truly one of the most painful experiences—even, as one person claims, comparable to being burned alive? In this episode, we bust this widespread myth after first diving into Elon Musk’s provocative claim that C-sections might lead to larger brains over generations.

The debate about pain-free birth has been raging on social media, with strong opinions on both sides. We discuss the unintended effects of setting women’s expectations about whether their births will—or won’t—be painful. 

Also, Cynthia shares insights from her work with HypnoBirthing clients, given that HypnoBirthing is commonly misunderstood as being a method that promises to eliminate childbirth pain. If it doesn’t make that promise, what is HypnoBirthing’s actual stance on pain? Moreover, how does Cynthia suggest educators guide women in their preparation?

We also feature listener comments, delve into the power of language to shape our perceptions of birth, and pose the ultimate question: Is childbirth inherently painful? Let us know your thoughts.

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.com
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

View Episode Transcript

If you enjoyed this podcast episode of the Down To Birth Show, please share with your pregnant and postpartum friends.

Share this episode: 
[DISPLAY_ULTIMATE_PLUS]

Between episodes, connect with us on Instagram @DownToBirthShow to see behind-the-scenes production clips and join the conversation by responding to our questions and polls related to pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood.

You can reach us at Contact@DownToBirthShow.com or call (802) 438-3696 (802-GET-DOWN). 

To join our monthly newsletter, text “downtobirth” to 22828.

About Cynthia Overgard

Cynthia is a published writer, advocate, childbirth educator and postpartum support specialist in prenatal/postpartum healthcare and has served thousands of clients since 2007. 

About Trisha Ludwig

Trisha is a Yale-educated Certified Nurse Midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Counselor. She has worked in women's health for more than 15 years.

Want to be on the show?

We'd love to hear your story. 
Please fill out the form if you are interested in being on the show.

screen linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram