When it comes to labor and childbirth, many stories focus on the big-picture moments: the first contraction, the intense pushing, and the incredible moment of meeting your baby. But between those milestones are a host of smaller, very real experiences that often go unmentioned.
Here’s a friendly look at some of the things women might not talk about during labor—because while they may not make the highlight reel, they’re all part of the incredible journey of bringing a baby into the world.
The Unexpected Noises
During labor, your body takes over, and sometimes that means making noises you didn’t expect! From grunts and groans to yells and even laughter, your sounds reflect the effort, relief, and emotion of the moment.
What’s important to know: There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to vocalize during labor. Whether you’re silent, loud, or somewhere in between, it’s all perfectly normal.
Pooping During Pushing
Let’s address the elephant in the delivery room: some women poop while pushing. It’s completely natural since the same muscles used to deliver your baby also control bowel movements.
The good news? Your medical team sees it all the time and handles it discreetly. It’s a sign that you’re pushing effectively, so don’t sweat it!
Shivering and Shaking
Many women experience intense shivering or shaking during labor, especially after receiving an epidural or as the body transitions between labor stages. It’s usually caused by a rush of hormones or a drop in body temperature.
It might feel strange, but it’s completely normal and temporary. A warm blanket and reassurance from your birth team can help you feel more comfortable.
Intense Emotional Swings
Labor is a rollercoaster, and it’s not just physical! You might feel calm and focused one moment and overwhelmed the next. Tears, laughter, frustration, and pure joy can all make appearances during labor—and sometimes all in one hour.
The emotional shifts are part of the process, and leaning on your partner, doula, or medical team for support can make all the difference.
The Pressure is Intense
Many women describe the sensation of childbirth not as sharp pain but as an overwhelming pressure—like needing to have the biggest bowel movement of your life. This feeling often surprises first-time moms who were expecting pain in the form of sharp contractions.
Knowing this ahead of time can help you feel less alarmed and more prepared to work with your body.
Time Gets Weird
Labor can warp your sense of time. Hours might feel like minutes, or vice versa, depending on how your labor progresses. You might think you’ve been pushing for ages, only to find out it’s been 10 minutes.
Letting go of the clock and focusing on the process can help you stay grounded in the moment.
Decisions Feel Bigger Than Expected
Choosing a position for labor, deciding whether to get pain relief, or agreeing to medical interventions can all feel weightier than you imagined. The combination of exhaustion, hormones, and excitement can make these decisions feel overwhelming.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Your birth team is there to explain options and support you every step of the way.
The Unexpected Humor
Labor can be intense, but there’s often room for unexpected humor. Maybe it’s a comment from your partner that makes you laugh mid-contraction or a lighthearted exchange with your nurse. These moments can break the tension and remind you of the joy in the process.
Your Body Takes Over
One of the most surprising parts of labor is how instinctual it can feel. Your body knows what to do, whether it’s changing positions, bearing down to push, or relaxing during contractions.
Trusting your body and going with the flow (even if it feels a little out of your control) can make the experience less intimidating.
The Feeling of Pure Relief
Finally, there’s a moment that doesn’t get enough attention: the pure relief you feel once your baby is born. The pressure eases, and the joy of holding your little one replaces the hard work you just did.
It’s a wave of accomplishment, love, and release that’s hard to describe—but absolutely unforgettable.
The Takeaway
Labor is a raw, unpredictable, and profoundly human experience. While it’s often glamorized or simplified in stories, every moment—no matter how messy, awkward, or surprising—is part of the incredible journey of meeting your baby.
By knowing about the lesser-discussed parts of labor, you can feel more prepared and less alone when these moments happen. Remember, you’re doing something extraordinary, and every step of the way, you’re stronger than you know.