We need to always remember that mothers who are afraid tend to secrete the hormones that delay or inhibit birth.

Those who are not terrified are more likely to secrete in abundance the hormones that make labor and birth easier and less painful—sometimes even pleasurable.

Another interesting aspect of the pain question is that women’s perceptions of labor pain vary a great deal depending upon their country or culture of origin.

In other countries of similar wealth (the Netherlands and Japan are prime examples), most women do not expect to be given anesthesia for a normal physiological process. 

Even if it has not been your habit throughout your life so far, learn to think positively about your body.

The pain of labor and birth has an entirely different message. It says: “Relax your pelvic muscles. Let go. Surrender. Go with the flow. Don’t fight this. It’s bigger ...