Pregnancy can be a burden for women. Sure there's the "glow" that everyone talks about but there's also the morning sickness, the bloating, the cravings, the back pain, and feeling like there's a bowling ball sitting on top of your bladder for half a year. Men aren't always spared the discomfort, either. Some get what's called "Couvade Syndrome". Whether it's psychosomatic, hormonal, or just plain sympathy, the symptoms are real and some are quite painful. Men can be afflicted with back pain, stomach upset, food cravings, end even breast swelling during their partner's pregnancy.

As if that's not enough for the poor expectant dad to endure, some cultures make sure that men feel the pain of pregnancy by deliberately forcing symptoms to emerge. But the Huichol Indians take it to a whole new level, making sure that men feel the pain of childbirth as well. In an elaborate ritual that takes place during labor, the father sits above his wife with ropes tied to his testicles. (Yes, you read that right!) These ropes are held by his wife. When the expectant mother has a contraction, she pulls on the rope...the rest is, well, self-explanatory.

American moms have less elaborate rituals of their own. Rituals for which American fathers, even if they suffer from Couvade Syndrome, should be grateful. After all, a 4AM run to the all-night market for a pint of chocolate-chocolate ice cream, a jar of pickles, and a back pillow is better than having a rope tied around the "family jewels"!

Your "That's Gotta Hurt!" Gift Guru,
Linda