So this summer I was in a discussion with three moms (one of them my wife) who have between the experience of giving birth 17 times. I mentioned my hope that someday my wife might have the chance to be in a delivery room as a witness, not as the laborer; to experience it from the standpoint of someone other than the Mom giving birth.
She said, and the other two women agreed, that she had no interest – there seemed to be strong agreement among them that they seen enough of that particular hospital room. No thanks.
Let me say this, as someone who has done this thing that none of them has – Women, while the labor witness experience is not pleasurable (how could it be, watching someone in pain?) it is nevertheless an honor to be there. It is an experience that is worth it. You get to see the first moments of a child’s postnatal life. A child made in the image of God. It is incredible.
I’m not saying that you should beg someone to let you do this. Rather, I’m saying that if offered the opportunity from someone you love (say, a sister or a daughter), consider taking it.
Responsible Father 
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September 17, 2009 at 9:44 am
jamsco
I predict that there will be a dad who’ll say, “Don’t listen to him! If given the chance, run away! It’s freaky scary!”
To him I say: Wuss.
September 19, 2009 at 3:08 pm
abigailsleftovers
Good post. I think I remember this conversation?
It’s good to hear this perspective. Thanks for reminding us of the honor and dignity of life being born.
I like the idea of being witness to it happening to another woman (someone very close to me); just don’t put a mirror anywhere around me during my own labor!!! 🙂
September 21, 2009 at 9:18 pm
philthecarl
You basically just called me a wuss!
You can enjoy the first moments of a child’s postnatal life five minutes after birth and it’s still just as good (to me).
September 21, 2009 at 10:46 pm
jamsco
Yes, Abigail, you were there. And good point.
Phil, I suppose you make a good point as well.
September 24, 2009 at 10:25 am
jillegraham
My good friend struggled to get pregnant and carry to term. After becoming pregnant with my third, she and I shared my joys and her sorrows. One year after my daughter was born, my friend prepared to deliver her first, and asked me to be in the delivery room with her and her husband. I had no idea of the honor and blessing in store for me. Witnessing birth on “the other side” was purely a gift of joy and I recommend it for anyone. Though I realize it’s takes a very close friendship!
October 4, 2009 at 10:44 pm
Sara
Just found this.
Well. I remember this discussion. Thinking a bit more about this I realize I would be happy to *help* deliver another baby, my daughters…my friends…my neighbor. I think I have experience and wisdom to offer and it would be a joy in to help usher a new life into the world. For most of history, this is how women birthed. With four daughters, I may yet have this joy.
What I remember most about this conversation though was agreement about the mirrors at one’s own delivery! 🙂
October 5, 2009 at 12:07 am
jamsco
Well, Abigail and Sara, regarding Mirrors at Delivery, I’ll agree with you and just say “To each her own.”