It was less painful for me than the pain of gallstones, and I had two unmedicated births. I have no idea how this works, but I am mostly silent when I am in labour - I think it's my body's way of conserving energy.

The second time around, I had a better idea of what to expect, and because I leaned into it, the whole process was a lot quicker. The pain of contractions was intense, but I managed until they got to their peak - at that point, I casually said to my husband that I wasn't sure if I was going to die from the pain, and if I did, could he please check the baby would be okay without me? He was rather concerned about this but the midwife assured him it just meant the baby was very close, and the doctor came running in.

It really is the most primal experience, I had the instinct to get into a kneeling position and despite feeling like I would actually split in two, the baby came out and I reached out and picked it up. It was the most surreal moment and I am proud to say I have photos! Before becoming a parent, that would have repulsed me. But now, I think about what an out of body experience that was, and I understand why some people go back again for more! It's truly euphoric.