Updated: August 2, 2016
Originally Published: May 16, 2010
Sex education often falls flat; students can be too embarrassed to engage, and educators sometimes struggle to effectively communicate essential lessons. So, how do we impress upon teenagers the profound responsibilities of parenting, especially when they’re navigating their own hormonal upheavals and developing decision-making skills?
An effective solution might be found in the captivating five-part series on motherhood by the Try Guys from BuzzFeed. In this engaging series, the men don a hefty 20-pound pregnancy belly, tackle diaper changes, endure sleepless nights with a fussy robot baby, and even simulate labor.
Among these entertaining experiments, the labor pain simulation stands out as the most gripping—and often cringeworthy—segment. Strapped to a machine designed to mimic muscle contractions, the four participants confronted the reality of labor pain head-on, and their reactions were nothing short of eye-opening. The discomfort was palpable, with electrodes placed on various parts of their bodies, including the abdomen, back, and yes, even their sensitive areas. They were also subjected to graphic explanations of labor and C-sections, which proved to be just as distressing as the simulation itself.
Throughout the experience, each participant had a safe word: “epidural,” which they all gladly utilized to escape the ordeal—much like I would have! They were fortunate not to find out that the anesthesiologist was busy with an emergency C-section, as I once experienced.
By the video’s conclusion, one participant, visibly shaken, turned to the camera and proclaimed, “Your mother is the toughest person on the planet. No matter who you are, your mom is stronger than you.” They then expressed gratitude to their mothers. While this might not entirely deter teens from taking birth control lightly, it might just inspire a newfound appreciation for their moms.
For those intrigued by the intersection of parenting and fertility, consider checking out our other blog post on the Cryobaby at Home Insemination Kit. Additionally, for a deeper dive into enhancing fertility, explore this informative webinar on yoga. If you’re looking for more pregnancy insights, this resource from Rmany is an excellent guide for those navigating home insemination.
In summary, the Try Guys’ labor pain simulation serves as a humorous yet impactful way to educate teens about the realities of parenthood, fostering both awareness and gratitude for their mothers.