Anne Wallen is a respected figure in women’s health with over 30 years of experience and is a leading voice on global change in maternity care, particularly for those at greatest risk.
Childbirth is one of the most intense, transformative, and awe-inspiring experiences a person can go through. It’s a moment when vulnerability, strength, and surrender come together to create life. But here’s the thing: the lessons learned in the delivery room don’t just stay there. They have the power to ripple into our daily lives, teaching us how to navigate challenges, embrace growth, and lean on others for support.
Whether you’ve given birth, been present for a loved one’s labor, or simply heard the stories, there’s a lot to take away from the childbirth experience. And yes, doulas, those calm, supportive guides, play a key role in teaching these life lessons. Let’s unpack a few of these lessons that go beyond the birthing space.
1. Surrender can be a superpower
In childbirth, there’s a point where you have to let go of control. You can’t force your body into labor or rush the process. Progress happens when you surrender to it, trusting your body and your baby to lead the way.
In life, surrender works the same way. Whether it’s a tough situation at work, a challenging relationship, or a personal goal, sometimes the best thing you can do is release your grip on how you think things should go. Letting go doesn’t mean giving up; it means trusting the process, leaning into the flow, and knowing that even discomfort can lead to growth.
2. It’s okay to ask for help in childbirth
Childbirth is not a solo act. Even the strongest, most independent moms benefit from support, whether it’s a partner, a nurse, or a certified doula. Doulas, in particular, remind us that having someone who listens, encourages, and reassures you can make all the difference.
In daily life, we often feel like we have to do everything ourselves, but that’s not true. Asking for help, whether it’s from a friend, therapist, or mentor, is a sign of strength, not weakness. Like doulas in the birthing space, the people who support us can help us move through challenges with more grace and confidence.
3. The environment matters
The birthing environment—dim lights, soft music, calm voices sets the tone for labor. It creates a sense of safety and calm, allowing the body and mind to do what they need to do.
In our everyday lives, our environment plays a huge role too. If your home or workspace feels chaotic or stressful, it’s harder to stay grounded. Take a page from the birthing book: Create spaces that nurture peace, focus, and joy. Maybe it’s adding a cozy corner for reading or taking time to declutter your desk. A little intention goes a long way.
4. Vulnerability is where strength grows
Let’s be real: childbirth is vulnerable. It’s messy and unpredictable and requires showing up fully as you are. But in that vulnerability, there’s an incredible power, a raw strength that comes from embracing the moment rather than fighting it.
Life works the same way. When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, whether it’s sharing your feelings, taking a risk, or admitting you don’t have all the answers, you create space for true growth. Vulnerability is where connection, courage, and resilience are born.
5. Patience is a virtue
If there’s one thing labor teaches, it’s patience. Babies come on their own timeline, and rushing the process usually creates more stress than it’s worth. Learning to be patient, even in the face of discomfort or uncertainty, is a valuable skill for life.
From pursuing long-term goals to waiting for the right opportunity, patience reminds us that good things often take time. Trusting the journey, just like trusting the labor process, can lead to the most rewarding outcomes.
6. Support systems are everything
Doulas are a perfect example of how support can change everything. Their presence can turn an overwhelming experience into an empowering one by offering emotional reassurance, physical comfort, and unbiased education.
In life, your support system is your rock. Surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, cheer you on, and hold space for you is key to navigating life’s challenges. Whether it’s friends, family, or a professional like a therapist or coach, finding your “doula team” can make all the difference.
7. Celebrate your strength
Childbirth, regardless of how it happens, is a testament to human strength. Whether it’s a natural delivery, a cesarean birth, or something in between, every birthing person deserves to celebrate what their body and mind achieved.
In life, we’re often so focused on what’s next that we forget to celebrate our wins. Take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come, whether it’s surviving a tough season, hitting a milestone, or simply making it through a hard day. You are stronger than you think, and that strength deserves recognition.
Final thoughts
Childbirth isn’t just about bringing a baby into the world; it’s a masterclass in resilience, connection, and transformation. The lessons learned in those vulnerable and powerful moments can shape the way we approach challenges, relationships, and growth in our daily lives.
And just like doulas help guide mothers through labor, there are people and practices that can guide us through life. So, take a deep breath, trust the process, and remember: The strength you need is already within you.
If you’re interested in becoming a professional doula, take a look at MaternityWise International for certifications in all things maternal care: Labor Doula, Postpartum Doula, Lactation Support, Childbirth Educator, and Infant Sleep Specialist. Their business and mentoring are unmatched, and they offer affordable pricing with payment plans for those who need them.
Anne Wallen, Director and Founder of MaternityWise Intl
Anne Wallen is a respected figure in women’s health with over 30 years of experience and is a leading voice on global change in maternity care, particularly for those at greatest risk. She continues to educate and empower birth professionals in more than 20 countries, contribute to a variety of curriculums, and shape the future of maternal health through her impactful role as a speaker and mentor. Anne is the Director and co-founder of MaternityWise International, and her legacy lies in inspiring generational changes around and elevating women's healthcare worldwide.
