by Carolyn Robertson posted in Pregnancy

One of the most common questions from first-time moms about childbirth is: How much will it hurt"
As much as I would love to sugarcoat this for you, there's no getting around it. The truth is, it hurts a lot.
I'm one of those strange moms who actually enjoyed giving birth. It was such an empowering, incredible experience. That said, even I will admit that it was definitely painful. I went in thinking I would go as far as I could before asking for an epidural and, of course, by the time I did ask the nurse told me it was too late.
Thankfully, it wasn't too long after that that I was able to start pushing, but I did have time to grab my husband's arm in a way that made it very clear that I would hurt him if I had to, and whisper-shout, "SOMEONE HAS TO HELP ME." So, yes, it hurts.
But it's worth it.
Edmonton-based photographer - and self-described "birth junkie" - Vannessa Brown has witnessed countless births over the years, and has seen first-hand the pain, perseverance, and ultimate joy of birth. Her images capture that journey so powerfully that we just had to share a few with you.

These pictures give me goosebumps. They are beautiful and raw, and they bring me right back to the days that I delivered my two daughters. The agony of labor and delivery is present in every clenched fist, in every deep breath, in every muffled cry.
Eventually, though, the contractions subside, the pushing ends, and rest and r...