Face of Birth: Birth Stories Season 4 Episode 3 Episode 3

The Face of Birth: Birth Stories is a documentary series which delves into the unfiltered, raw experiences of childbirth from the perspective of mothers. Each episode features real-life accounts of women recounting their childbirth journey; from conception, to labour and delivery and postnatal, from varying backgrounds and circumstances. In season 4, episode 3 titled ‘Episode 3’, the show continues to explore the varying ways in which women experience childbirth, with an emphasis on natural birth.

The episode kicks off with a monologue from a mother discussing her decision to have a natural birth and why it was important for her, followed by a montage of mothers in labour going through the different stages of the birthing process. Mums-to-be are shown preparing for their labour and delivery, with several women opting for home births, while others choose to have a midwife or doula present in hospital. One mother speaks about her desire to have a water birth, a method of delivering in which the mother gives birth in a birthing pool,with her partner by her side while she’s surrounded by calming music, dimmed lights and scented candles. The show sheds light on how hospitals and birthing rooms are tailored according to the mother's needs and preferences to make the experience comfortable and safe.

As the mums-to-be go into labour, the episodes transition to the delivery room, where we witness the different stages of the birthing process. The mothers are shown pushing, sweating and crying through their contractions as their partners and support team motivate and encourage them. The show doesn't shy away from displaying the raw intensity of the childbirth process, with women using natural birthing methods like hypnobirthing, meditation and breathing techniques as they push through the pain of labour. The camera gets up close and personal, capturing the raw emotions that accompany childbirth.

One mother wants to give birth with the support of her sister only, which she feels represents her spiritual beliefs. She shares her personal story with the viewers which makes them feel the emotions she went through. Using natural methods like hypnobirthing and maintaining a calm demeanor despite the intense pain and strain, we follow the progress of the birth.

In this episode, the show also touches on the topic of maternal and postnatal care. Following the delivery of the babies, the mothers discuss their experience and how they feel both physically and emotionally. Maternal care is critical especially after the delivery of a child, and the show highlights the importance of nurturing and care that mothers receive once the baby is born. We witness the bond forming between the newborns and their mothers, as they hold, cuddle, and breastfeed their babies for the first time.

Towards the culmination of the episode, several mums are joined by their partners, and we see the new families leaving the hospital or birthing center, with them taking the next step in their journeys - the beginning of a new chapter! A montage of the mums with their newborns, family, loved ones celebrating while the moms share how they feel after the entire arduous process lays in front of the viewers. It beautifully showcases the joy of giving birth, and how each mother's experience is unique and special.

Overall, the third episode of season four of the Face of Birth: Birth Stories is a heartwarming celebration of the joys and struggles of childbirth. Through real-life accounts, it explores the ways in which mothers approach natural childbirth, emphasizing the emotional and physical intensity of childbirth for mothers and their partners. It also sheds light on the importance of maternal and postnatal care for the mother as well as the baby. It is a glimpse into the beautiful birthing journey that women go through and an endearing depiction of maternal love and care.