Mothers Are Most Vulnerable Yet Powerful

During childbirth, mothers experience a unique duality of vulnerability and power.

Vulnerable

Childbirth brings immense physical and emotional intensity. Mothers face significant pain, exhaustion, and emotional stress, making them physically and emotionally vulnerable. This vulnerability comes from the inherent risks and unpredictability of the birth process, as well as the need for support and assistance from others during this critical time.

Powerful

Despite this vulnerability, childbirth reveals a mother’s extraordinary strength and power. Bringing a new life into the world requires immense courage, endurance, and resilience. The power isn’t just in the physical act of giving birth but also in the emotional and mental fortitude needed to navigate the challenges of labour and delivery. This strength is evident in the ability to endure pain, make critical decisions, and welcome a new life into the world, embodying a profound sense of empowerment and accomplishment.

This duality highlights the profound nature of childbirth. A mother’s greatest vulnerability is intertwined with her greatest strength, showcasing the incredible power of the human spirit and body.

In my first pregnancy with Russell, I wanted to give birth as naturally as possible. The team from NHS Lanarkshire delivered gas and air a few weeks before the due date, and we collected diamorphine and other injections from the pharmacy. I remember discussing with Ron how unnecessary these resources seemed because I was determined not to use them. But when I was fully dilated, the pain was overwhelming. I lost control and started screaming for morphine. Thankfully, Ron and our experienced midwife, Elsie, kept me motivated. I managed to calm down and finished the labour with just gas and air. When the time came for Rosalyn almost a year and a half later, I knew I could manage without morphine. I started with gas and air at early stages. However, when we watched the video months later, we realised something surprising: the connection hose for the gas and air tank had come loose during movements and fell to the ground. At the exact moment of delivery, I was only holding the disconnected mouthpiece with my teeth, breathing through it – placebo at best.

These experiences made me feel empowered and inspired my ambition to capture these incredible experiences for others through my photography.

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