I asked ChatGPT (and some humans) "What is childbirth pain equivalent to?"

Childbirth pain is something many expectant parents dread, but it’s also one of the most common questions people have when preparing for the big day: What does childbirth pain feel like, and what can I compare it to?

As I prepared to write this blog post, I turned to a mix of sources, including ChatGPT, and asked a few real parents, “What is childbirth pain equivalent to?” The answers were both insightful and varied, so let’s dive into what I learned.

💬 So, What Is Childbirth Pain Equivalent To? According to ChatGPT…

When I asked ChatGPT this question, here’s what it had to say:

“Childbirth pain can vary greatly from person to person and even from one pregnancy to the next, but many people describe it as a combination of intense cramping, pressure, and stretching. Some compare it to very severe menstrual cramps, while others say it’s like the sensation of having your muscles contract involuntarily.”

ChatGPT also noted that the emotional experience can add a layer of complexity—stress, fear, and the sense of losing control can heighten the pain.

But for the sake of comparison, here are some common descriptions:

🔥 Common Comparisons to Childbirth Pain

• Severe Menstrual Cramps – The most common analogy. But unlike period cramps, labor contractions are far more intense and prolonged.

• Strong Gas Pains or Diarrhea – Some say early labor pains feel like intense digestive cramping combined with the urgency of needing the bathroom.

• A Deep, Uncomfortable Pressure – Imagine a heavy weight pressing against your abdomen—this is how some describe the baby’s descent.

• Muscle Cramps on Overdrive – Think of a charley horse (severe muscle cramp) happening across your entire abdomen.

💡 Did you know? Your body releases endorphins during labor, which can help manage pain naturally. The intensity of contractions also peaks and then subsides, meaning the pain isn’t constant.

🗣️ What Real Parents Say

After reading ChatGPT’s response, I decided to ask a few parents about their experiences. Here are some of the most vivid answers I received:

💥 "Like 50 bones breaking at once!"🚚 "Being hit by a truck... repeatedly."⚡ "Like my insides were being wrung out like a wet towel."

A few responses from our instagram community https://www.instagram.com/thelabourdept

One thing both ChatGPT and human responses agree on? Pain is not just physical—it’s deeply psychological too. Your perception of pain can shift based on your mindset. Fear and tension can amplify labor pain, while relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and strong support can make it more manageable.

🗣️ What the professionals say:

According to Birth and Postpartum Doula Justine Gomes, "It’s not equivalent to anything but I’d say it different type of pain. It’s not pain that activates your fight or flight response (danger pain). It’s functional pain, signaling that things are changing in the body and you’re closer to meeting your baby. Contractions often begin feeling like mild period cramps and then intensify with the progression of labor."

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all comparison for childbirth pain. For some, it feels like severe cramps; for others, it’s intense pressure or stretching; and for some, it’s an experience beyond words.

What’s undeniable? Childbirth is a remarkable and transformative experience. While it can be intensely painful, many parents say it’s worth every second.

🤰 If you’re preparing for birth, remember: You are not alone. Need to some help getting ready? Find your Prepped to Parent group and gain confidence and community.