Original Sin

Original Sin and Childbirth
Question from on 07-21-2007:
Hi Father Torraco,

God willing, I will be giving birth to my first child in about a month (and am VERY excited!!!).

I have a question about original sin and childbirth. The pains of childbirth were one of the consequences of Eve's sin in the garden of Eden, right? If this is true, is it theologically, morally wrong to try a lessen these pains (ie medication)?

Just something I have pondered about the last couple months...
Answer by Fr.Stephen F. Torraco on 07-23-2007:
No it is not wrong. But at the same time, you might consider Pope John Paul II's words on this matter in his apostolic exhortation entitled "The Dignity and Vocation of Women." He says that the pains of childbirth are a uniquely womanly participation in the Passion of Christ.