Pregnancy and giving birth are two beautiful natural experiences. Unfortunately, there can be an element of shame around some of the bodily processes and occurrences that come with it.

Many women feel embarrassed to admit that certain things are happening or have happened because they do not fit the magical picture-perfect vision of pregnancy and childbirth.

Many of these things involve bodily fluids and processes that they do not wish to be reminded about. There is an element of embarrassment surrounding some of the signs, symptoms and details of the way the labour unfolded.

Here are some of the beautiful elements of labour that often make women feel embarrassed.

1. Diarrhoea is often the first sign of labour for many women. The same muscles that cause your Uterus to contract can lead to a “clear out” before the big event. Your body is doing its thing – you’ve got this.

2. Vomiting. If you vomit during your birthing experience your midwife or care team will not bat an eyelid. It is very common and you’ll probably feel a sense of relief afterwards so if it happens go with it.

3. Stitches. Often referred to as sutures, these can happen depending on the way your birth occurs. Some women experience an episiotomy which is a medical cut to the perineum and other women can naturally tear. Having sutures is very common and it is just part of the story of how your beautiful baby made their entrance into the world. It usually can’t be helped so there is nothing to be embarrassed about.

4. You’ll think you’ve wet yourself but it’s actually your waters trickling. You might find yourself walking down the hospital corridor or sitting in a waiting room as you leak fluids. This is really common and nobody will judge you. Your labour is progressing!

5. Lots and lots of tears. Giving birth is a very intense and emotional experience so be prepared for all of the emotions. Many women cry throughout their birthing experience and it is a great way to release tension and energy.

6. You may need a suppository or pessary. This is when medication of some sort is given to you via your rectum or vagina. No big deal!

7. People seeing you naked. This can be a difficult thing to accept if you are modest about these things but it is natural and your body is doing something incredibly beautiful so be proud, Mama.

8. You may have a bowel movement while you are giving birth. You might not even know that this has happened and that should tell you how normal it is for the staff to witness.

9. A bloody show is often an early sign of labour. You may notice some blood tinged mucus in your underwear or on some tissue when you wipe. It is totally natural and a sign that things might begin soon.

10. You might be a little gassy. Labour and some of the medications you may avail of whilst in labour can make you feel pretty gassy but it will pass.