experience as a doctor. The opening of the book sets a tone centered around the concept of painless childbirth, challenging the prevailing belief that pain is a natural and unavoidable part of labor. Stockham introduces various testimonies and anecdotes from different cultures and historical contexts that suggest childbirth does not have to be painful. She argues that many American women endure excessive suffering during childbirth due to societal beliefs and lifestyle choices and posits that understanding and adhering to physiological laws can lead to a much easier experience. Thus, the beginning lays the groundwork for a deeper exploration of pregnancy and childbirth, encouraging women to reconsider preconceived notions about their physical capabilities and the ease of maternity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)