birth
For some, labour is waves and waves of pain. For others, it’s like passing sausages.
"You witness strength, pain and unimaginable joy on a daily basis," the Duchess of Cambridge wrote.
"I’d already had one hospital birth and one home birth – I knew I wanted a free birth this time."
"I loved my birth experience. Nothing was stolen from me."
"There were no major hiccups during my labour. The problem for me came soon after he was born."
For some dads it happens on first meeting their child – for others it takes a little longer.
"Our taxi driver was delighted to be running an emergency delivery service – as long as I sat on my jacket to keep the seat dry."
I chose to give birth without pain relief – but we shouldn't demonise those who do.
"The midwife looked to see how dilated I was, then pulled the emergency alarm."
"Can I even do this? Can I cope with pregnancy, let alone deal with birth?"