The manner in which Hollywood portrays labor and delivery is a travesty. They paint such a vivid, unrealistic, and often comedic version of it when, in reality, it's a truly beautiful event. OK, yes, also it's painful and scary, especially the first time around, and some people have legitimately traumatic labors and births, but for most of us (the very lucky ones), getting a baby from the inside of our bodies to the outside is... mostly just really amazing. When you think about the things that happen when you give birth — the symphonic harmony of your body, your baby, and your medical staff all working together so fluently — it's nothing short of impressive as hell, and a massive reminder of the power your wield at all times as a healthy human woman (and honestly, what could be more awesome than getting a reminder of that and a cute-ass baby to snuggle?).
I think that's where my fascination of labor and delivery stems from: experiencing the stunning, almost superhuman-like power that I felt during my own deliveries. It was almost as if time slowed down just enough for me to mindfully embrace each moment of my life changing as everything aligned around me perfectly to bring my kids into the world. And though I still wasn't sure if I was ready, or if I ever would be, and I was in a mind-numbing (unfortunately, not body-numbing) amount of pain, witnessing my life completely change in a matter of mere hours was extraordinary.
My labors were far from pain-free (pro tip that you can take or leave: If you have decided to get an epidural, go ahead and get it when your pain borders unbearable after the Pitocin kicks in. Don't be a hero.) but I still remember them fondly. So fondly, in fact, that there are aspects of them that I actually miss. Yes, really. No, I'm not drunk.