Ideas Birth gives us life. But do you know its history?
Jan 22, 2026
Lucy Inglis, an English historian with 15 years of research on childbirth, shares her fascinating insights into the history of birth. She highlights the ancient practices, including the roles of women as birth assistants and the cultural rituals surrounding childbirth. Lucy discusses the evolution of pain management and how societal attitudes toward childbirth have changed, revealing that despite medical advances, disparities remain globally. Personal birth stories from diverse backgrounds showcase the intimate realities of motherhood and the enduring journey of women through history.
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Why Human Babies Are Born Early
- Human babies are born relatively undeveloped because the female pelvis limits birth size (the obstetrical dilemma).
- This early birth fosters intense caregiver dependence and strong hormonal and emotional bonding.
Birth Was A Communal Act
- For most of human history other women in the community supported labour with physical bracing and comfort tasks.
- Ancient images and texts show two assistants, one bracing behind and one attending in front of the birthing woman.
Venus Pendant Captures Postpartum Reality
- The Venus of Hohle Fels is a carved Paleolithic pendant that depicts a woman after giving birth and emphasizes postpartum bodily change.
- Lucy Inglis suggests it may express a mother's immediate, visceral view of her body after labour.
