Are pangs of childbirth greater than happiness?

The pain was sudden and so severe that I let out a loud “ah!” As the nurse raised the charge and the pain grew, I felt like a powerful hand was twisting everything in my stomach. I was beyond wincing. Before my mind went blank, I remember crying out “stop”.

I was perspiring profusely when I got hold of my senses and it took me 5 minutes to get back upon my feet.

Some other men who underwent the simulated labor described it as “hell”.

The program is designed to give men an idea of the pain women go through during childbirth. It was organized by the hospital where my wife is to give birth. And it is aimed at making husbands and wives better understand each other.

I had heard labor pain is the most severe pain a human goes through. Now I know why.

The program also includes other experiences such as making the men wear a stuffed vest and sleep on their left side throughout the night — something that almost every pregnant woman has to do.

Such programs that allow men to get a “taste” of the pain and discomfort women go through during childbirth have become popular over the past couple of years.

On March 8, 2014 (International Women’s Day), Chongqing Daily conducted a survey on men’s knowledge about childbirth, and asked 13,424 men whether they would like to experience some of the pain of childbearing. About 19 percent of the respondents said they would.

The program is designed to give men an idea of the pain women go through during childbirth ... Let’s hope more men are willing to get to know the pain women experience giving birth.