How painful is childbirth?

Childbirth pain is unique—there’s really nothing quite like it! How painful it feels can vary massively from person to person, depending on factors like your pain tolerance, the position of your baby, how long your labour lasts, and whether any interventions are needed.

Most people describe it as intense, rather than sharp or stabbing, with contractions feeling like powerful waves of pressure that build and release. It’s often compared to very strong period cramps or intense muscle cramping, but it’s happening on a whole-body scale. The pressure and stretching during delivery itself (especially as the baby moves through the birth canal) can also be uncomfortable, though many people report feeling a mix of sensations: pain, pressure, and the urge to push.

Here’s the thing, though: it’s not just pain. Your body is flooded with hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which can help you cope. Many people say that while it’s intense, it’s purposeful, and knowing you’re bringing your baby into the world gives the experience a special kind of focus.

There are also lots of ways to manage the pain! Breathing techniques, hypnobirthing, water births, massages, and movement can all help. For those who want or need additional support, there’s gas and air (Entonox), epidurals, and other medical pain relief options. Every birth is different, and how much it hurts—and how you feel about it afterward—depends on your own unique experience.

What’s amazing is how many people, even those who find it challenging, come away feeling empowered and proud of what they’ve achieved. It’s a pain with a purpose, and it ends with the most incredible reward: your baby.