Note: Not all pregnant women experience these things at the same time or in the same way. But these are the most common ones during the stages of labor.
Whether you’re jumping for joy or in a state of shock, finding out you’re pregnant marks the beginning of a very exciting journey.
Family members and friends are usually very supportive—especially women who have already given birth. They’ll likely advise you to take good care of yourself and not stress about becoming a mother, because “everything will come naturally.” They’ll also tell you how wonderful pregnancy is and that you shouldn’t worry too much about labor. That’s probably because they’ve forgotten the pain and misery once their baby arrived and filled their life with joy.
When I asked my mom and aunts about labor, they said I would feel some contractions that weren’t too painful and that once I got the epidural, everything would be smooth and painless.
Well, my experience with labor was quite different. I don’t blame them for sugar-coating it—otherwise, I might’ve been too scared to ever get pregnant. But I do believe it’s important to be emotionally prepared for what may come. Still, there’s nothing to fear: it’s all natural, and it’s all worth it.
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and many mothers say they cherished every moment of it. But let’s be real—before you start daydreaming about holding your baby and showering them with kisses, it’s important to be informed and prepared for labor and delivery. Ideally, start educating yourself before your third trimester. Ask your doctor questions—they’re trained to give you the right answers without scaring or overwhelming you. Because let’s face it: your friends and family might leave out the “less pretty” details.
Personally, no one told me about many of the things that happen during labor—and I wish they had. Everything felt new and unexpected, which made me anxious and uncomfortable. And because I don’t want you to feel the same, I’m writing this article for you, future mommies, to let you know about 15 things that can happen during labor that people don’t usually mention. They might surprise you—but trust me, the experience is still far more beautiful than you imagine.
1. Personality Change (a.k.a. Mood Swings)
Let’s call them “mood swings” to avoid calling you crazy! While not all women experience this, most do. Contractions can feel like the worst menstrual cramps or gas pain you’ve ever had—and they can drive you a bit wild.
During my first pregnancy, I didn’t feel much pain thanks to the magical epidural. But with my twins, it was a whole different story. I felt every bit of it. I usually have a high pain tolerance, but this was the hardest thing I’ve ever endured. The pain varied in intensity—from manageable to almost unbearable. The more I fought it, the worse it felt. But when I accepted it and surrendered, it became more bearable.
Naturally, this doesn’t put you in the best mood. You might not even know what you want, and your poor partner will likely be helpless, watching you go through it all.
2. Needles
During labor, you’ll be poked quite a few times—and while it’s uncomfortable, it’s necessary. You’ll most likely get an IV (intravenous line) as a precaution. It helps prevent dehydration, especially since you’re usually not allowed to drink anything during active labor.
If you’re getting an epidural, IV fluids are essential beforehand to prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure, which is a common side effect.
3. Blood Pressure Monitoring
There will be a machine next to your bed tracking your heart rate and your baby’s, ensuring you’re both handling labor well. Expect to stay hooked up to it for a while—and even after giving birth, nurses will frequently check your blood pressure.
4. A Lot of Different Doctors
Your OB-GYN won’t be the only person you see. Throughout your labor, you’ll interact with multiple doctors, nurses, and anesthesiologists. It can feel overwhelming to see so many unfamiliar faces, but it’s all part of the process. Each one plays a specific role to ensure you and your baby are safe.
5. Doctors Might Break Your Water
To speed things up, your doctor might break your water manually instead of waiting for it to happen naturally. By then, you’ll likely have had the epidural, and even if you haven’t, it’s usually just an odd feeling—not painful. The amniotic sac doesn’t have pain receptors, so don’t worry.
6. Only One Person Allowed in the Delivery Room
You might want your whole family with you—but when it’s time to push (or even during a C-section), only one support person is usually allowed. This helps maintain a calm, controlled environment and keeps you and your baby safe.
Knowing your loved ones are just outside, waiting and supporting you, can be more comforting than having a crowd in the room.
7. Numbness After Epidural
The epidural is a powerful pain reliever—and it works fast. But it also causes complete numbness from the waist down. You won’t even be able to move your toes. Still, it’s a small price to pay for avoiding the intense labor pain.
8. Urinary Catheter
If you get an epidural, you’ll need a urinary catheter since you won’t feel the urge to pee. Even without an epidural, a full bladder during labor can interfere with the baby’s descent—so having a catheter helps.
9. Perineal Tear
If you’re giving birth vaginally, there’s a chance you’ll experience a tear between the vagina and anus. Most are minor and heal easily. I had one during my first delivery, and I got stitches that dissolved on their own after a few days. It was uncomfortable, but manageable. Just take care of yourself and avoid heavy lifting.
10. Pooping Happens
Yes—it’s true, and it’s totally normal. It just means you’re pushing correctly, using the same muscles involved in a bowel movement. Almost all women go through it, and trust me, nobody in that room will bat an eye. You probably won’t even notice it’s happening!
11. No Food Allowed
Once labor begins, you’re usually not allowed to eat—just ice chips or popsicles. It’s to avoid complications in case you need surgery. So don’t be mad at your partner for refusing to sneak in snacks—he’s just following the rules!
12. Vomiting
Besides pooping, vomiting can also happen during labor—especially if you’re hungry, anxious, or overwhelmed. Don’t feel ashamed—it’s normal and part of the process for many women.
13. You May Not See Your Doctor Until the End
Unless you’re having a scheduled C-section, your OB might not show up until you’re ready to deliver. They’re likely helping other patients. But don’t worry—the nurses and other medical staff are there for you and know exactly what to do.
14. You’ll Deliver More Than Just a Baby
Once your baby is born, you’re not done pushing. You still need to deliver the placenta. I didn’t know this at the time, so I was shocked when the doctor told me to keep pushing. Now you’re warned!
15. No Immediate Baby Bonding
Movies make it seem like you get to cuddle your baby right away—but in reality, they’ll whisk your newborn away to clean, weigh, and check him or her. Even your first breastfeeding session might be cut short for further tests. You might not get uninterrupted bonding time until three or four hours later.
Your body will go through many changes during pregnancy and especially during labor. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions and physical sensations. And yet—it’s a miraculous journey you’ll never forget.
Not every woman experiences labor the same way. Some spend days in labor, others only a few hours. But being prepared helps make the experience less overwhelming.
If you’re giving birth in a hospital, most of the things I mentioned here will likely happen. I hope this helped you feel more ready and confident. Wishing you a beautiful, healthy birth and the happiest motherhood ahead!
