Hey mama,
Let’s be real—there are a lot of outdated, fear-based messages floating around about pregnancy and birth. Between TV shows, family stories, and late-night Google searches, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure about what’s actually true when it comes to giving birth.
As a birth and postpartum doula, I’ve heard so much. And I’m here to tell you: you don’t have to buy into the fear. You deserve accurate information, compassionate care, and the space to make choices that truly feel right for you.
So let’s clear the air and shine a light on some of the most common myths I hear from the families I serve.
Myth #1: You’re “not allowed” to question your doctor
This one makes me want to roll my eyes. You are the leader of your birth team. Your provider works with you, not over you.
You have every right to:
- Ask questions
- Get a second opinion
- Decline procedures
- Request time to make decisions
Informed consent isn’t optional. You deserve care that honors your voice.
Myth #2: Birth is always painful and traumatic
Let’s be honest—birth can be intense. But painful and traumatic? That’s not the full story.
With the right support, education, and environment, birth can also be:
- Empowering
- Transformative
- Peaceful
- Even joyful
Your experience matters. Pain may be part of it, but fear doesn’t have to be.
Myth #3: You can’t have a doula if you’re planning a medicated birth or C-section
Doulas support you, not a specific birth style.
Whether you’re planning:
- An unmedicated home birth
- An epidural in a hospital
- A scheduled C-section
…you still deserve emotional, physical, and informational support.
Doulas walk with you through your choices, without judgment.
Myth #4: First births are always long and difficult
Sure, statistically first labors can be longer. But “always” is a word we throw out way too easily.
I’ve supported moms who labored gently and quickly. And others who needed more time and space.
Birth is unique every single time. Your journey doesn’t have to match someone else’s timeline.
Myth #5: Your water will break dramatically like in the movies
Hollywood loves drama. But in reality?
- Only about 10-15% of people experience their water breaking before labor begins
- It’s often a slow trickle, not a big gush
- It can happen at any point during labor—or be broken by a provider
No mop necessary (usually).
Myth #6: You have to give birth lying on your back
Nope. Flat-on-your-back is one of the least effective positions for birthing.
You can labor and birth:
- On hands and knees
- Squatting
- Side-lying
- Standing
- In water
Movement is your friend. Gravity helps. You have options. You just have to be open to communicate with your birth support team.
Myth #7: If you’re anxious, birth will go badly
It’s okay to be nervous. You’re doing something big.
Anxiety doesn’t mean you’ll have a complicated birth. What matters is how we support you through it.
This is where tools like:
- Breathwork
- Affirmations
- Touch and massage
- Emotional support
…make a huge difference.
You don’t have to be fearless. You just need to feel safe, seen, and supported.
Myth #8: You should just trust the experts and go with the flow
You are the expert of your body, your baby, and your experience.
Going with the flow can work if it comes from a place of trust and confidence—not fear or pressure.
You can:
- Prepare and still be flexible
- Have a plan and still adjust
- Learn your rights and still surrender to the moment
You don’t have to pick one or the other.
Here’s the Truth:
Birth doesn’t come with guarantees. But what you do deserve is truth, support, and options.
That’s what I’m here to offer.
Whether you’re planning your first birth or your fifth, whether you’re feeling confident or completely overwhelmed, I see you.
Let’s rewrite the story together—one myth at a time.
Curious about working with a doula?
I offer:
- ✧ Prenatal support and birth planning
- ✧ Continuous labor support
- ✧ Postpartum care
- ✧ Virtual options and in-person services in Sanford, NC and surrounding areas
Book a Free Consultation or Explore My Doula Packages
You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
With love & gratitude,
Jamie
Labor of Love for Birth & Beyond
