5 Myths About Childbirth That Might Be Holding You Back

When it comes to childbirth, there’s no shortage of myths and misconceptions. Many of these beliefs are rooted in outdated medical practices, cultural fears, or dramatic portrayals in movies and TV shows. Unfortunately, these myths can create unnecessary anxiety and even limit your confidence in your body’s ability to birth your baby. Let’s take a look at five of the most common myths and bust them with evidence-based facts.

Myth #1: “You have to give birth lying on your back.”

One of the most persistent myths about childbirth is that the only position for labor and birth is lying flat on your back. This belief largely comes from historical hospital practices, where lying down made it more convenient for doctors. However, this position isn’t necessarily the best for laboring women.

Research shows that upright positions—such as standing, squatting, kneeling, or being on all fours—can help labor progress more efficiently. Gravity assists in bringing the baby down, and these positions allow for better movement of the pelvis. Many women find they experience less pain and fewer interventions when they have the freedom to move during labor.

Myth #2: “Big babies mean guaranteed complications.”

A common fear among pregnant women is that if their baby is measuring “big,” they will automatically have a difficult birth or need a C-section. While larger babies (also called macrosomic babies) can sometimes lead to longer labors, your body is usually well-equipped to handle the birth.

Your baby’s position, your pelvic mobility, and your ability to relax all play a significant role in how birth unfolds. Movement, upright positions, and deep relaxation techniques can make a significant difference in how smoothly labor progresses. Plus, ultrasounds estimating a baby’s size can be off by as much as 1-2 pounds, meaning many “big baby” diagnoses are not accurate.

Myth #3: “Pain relief options are limited.”

Many women believe that pain relief in labor is limited to epidurals and medications. While medical pain relief options can be helpful for some, there are many additional ways to manage labor sensations naturally.

Breathing techniques, movement, water immersion (such as in a birthing pool or bath), massage, acupressure, and hypnobirthing techniques are all powerful tools to help you work with your body. Each woman experiences labor differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Exploring different comfort measures ahead of time can help you feel more prepared and confident in your choices.

Myth #4: “Your body will fail you if labor doesn’t go to plan.”

Birth is unpredictable. No two labors are exactly the same, and despite careful preparation, things may not go according to plan. This does not mean that your body has failed you.

Your body is incredibly intelligent and designed for birth. Sometimes, labor takes unexpected turns that require medical interventions. These interventions exist to support you and your baby, not to undermine your ability to birth. No matter how your birth unfolds, whether it’s vaginal, assisted, or via C-section, it is still a valid and powerful experience.

Myth #5: “You just have to ‘get through it.’”

Many women are told that birth is just something to endure—that it’s painful, terrifying, and simply about surviving. But what if birth could be more than that? What if it could be an empowering, even transformative experience?

With the right preparation, mindset, and support, birth can be a positive experience. Techniques like hypnobirthing, visualization, and mindfulness can shift your perspective on labor. Surrounding yourself with a supportive birth team, whether that includes a partner, midwife, doula, or doctor, also plays a crucial role in shaping your experience.

Final Thoughts

Childbirth doesn’t have to be something to fear. By questioning these common myths and equipping yourself with knowledge and support, you can approach birth with confidence. Every birth is unique, and no matter how your journey unfolds, you deserve to feel informed, supported, and empowered every step of the way.

If you want to learn more about preparing for a confident birth, check out the BodyMind Birthing course options.