Between myth and reality: The cultural and digital narratives of childbirth

This paper explores the intersection of cultural, medical, and digital narratives surrounding "natural" childbirth, revealing how these narratives idealize while concealing the complexities of the birthing process. Drawing on Julia Kristeva's concept of abjection, the study investigates how childbirth is perceived as both natural and unsettling, shaped by societal expectations. It links fairy tale symbolism, such as Little Red Riding Hood, to contemporary social media practices, illustrating how women are pressured to meet ideals of natural birth shaped by digital platforms, influencing maternal identity.

The paper contrasts historical and cultural unease about childbirth with sanitized portrayals in media and fairy tales. It also analyses an experimental artistic practice using bodily fluids and organic materials, emphasizing the tension between the natural and the unnatural. Ultimately, the paper calls for a nuanced understanding of childbirth that recognizes its complexities and challenges cultural myths.