Childbirth simulator: how does it work and what does it really feel like?

The pain of childbirth has always fascinated, worried, and intrigued people. How can you describe such an intense sensation to someone who has never experienced it?
It is to answer this question that birth simulators were created: devices capable of reproducing the uterine contractions felt by women during labor.
These devices are not meant to frighten, but to raise awareness, educate and make people understand the power of the female body .

At Madame Patch , this mission is particularly important to us.
That is why we designed the contraction simulator, an educational and caring tool that reproduces the sensation of contractions, whether related to menstruation or childbirth, in order to help everyone better understand what women experience.

What is a birthing simulator?

A birth simulator is a device that reproduces the uterine contractions felt during labor.

Using gentle electrical stimulation , it sends mild impulses to the abdominal muscles to mimic the tension, pressure, and pain characteristic of childbirth.

How does a birthing simulator work?

A birth simulator reproduces uterine contractions using a simple but effective technology: transcutaneous electrical stimulation .
This method involves sending mild electrical impulses to the skin of the abdomen, which will contract the muscles in a controlled manner, to mimic the sensation of a real contraction.

A principle of progressive stimulation

Most simulators operate from a small box connected to self-adhesive electrodes.

At low intensity, the pulses cause a gentle pulling sensation , similar to mild menstrual cramps .

By increasing the intensity, the contraction becomes more pronounced, creating that characteristic abdominal pressure that women feel during labor.

The goal is not to cause pain, but to evoke a measured version of what the body experiences.
It is an educational approach that helps to demystify the experience of childbirth and to promote empathy .

A realistic but safe experience

Unlike a real birth, the pain generated by a simulator is entirely controllable .

The user can adjust the intensity, duration, and frequency of the contractions.
This safety allows for risk-free exploration of the mechanics of pain and a better understanding of how the body works.

The contraction simulator uses the same principle of gentle stimulation.
Designed for gentle and accessible use , it offers several intensity levels to reproduce sensations similar to period pain or the first contractions of childbirth , without exceeding the comfort threshold.

Why use a birthing simulator?

Childbirth simulators are not just a gadget: they are real tools for raising awareness and understanding of the female body .

Understanding female pain

These devices allow those who will never experience childbirth – partners, relatives, or health students – to feel a fraction of the pain that women go through.

This experience is often described as an awakening , a way of realizing the strength of the female body and developing a form of physical empathy .

“It’s a concrete way of saying: I understand what you’re going through .”

Educational and preparation support

In midwifery schools, childbirth simulators are used to train future healthcare professionals in the physiology of labor.
In a more public context, they are used in childbirth preparation workshops to help with:

Visualize the rhythm of contractions, learn breathing and relaxation techniques, become familiar with pain management.

A tool for empathy and dialogue

Beyond the physical dimension, these simulators have a strong emotional value.
They open up a space for discussion between partners , promote mutual understanding and sometimes help to demystify the fear of childbirth .

At Madame Patch , we believe that understanding women's pain also means respecting it better.
That is why our contraction simulator is aimed at everyone: women, men, couples and curious people, in an approach of listening, curiosity and kindness.

Primarily an awareness tool

Originally, childbirth simulators were intended for the training of midwives and health students .

But today, their use has become more widespread: they also serve to help men or loved ones discover what the pain of a contraction represents.

It is a surprising and enriching experience that helps develop empathy and understanding of the female experience .

A gentle but realistic technology

The simulator works via electrodes placed on the abdomen.
Depending on the intensity chosen, it can reproduce:

Simple cramps, similar to period pains .

Until deeper and more intense contractions occur, similar to those at the beginning of labor.

The goal is not to cause pain, but to make people feel , for a few seconds, what the female body naturally goes through .

A caring and educational approach

At Madame Patch , we wanted to make this experience accessible to everyone , without the medical aspect or extreme pain.

Our contraction simulator is designed for a gentle, safe and progressive approach , raising awareness of the reality of women's pain while promoting dialogue and understanding .

What are the benefits of a contraction simulator?

A contraction simulator is not just a simple curiosity tool: it is a sensory and educational experience that helps to better understand, feel and respect female pain .

It has several benefits, both physical, emotional and educational.

1. Understanding the power of the female body

The first reaction of many users is surprise: “I didn’t think it would be so intense.”
This awareness is invaluable. It allows us to put words to what women experience during menstruation or childbirth, and to recognize the strength of the female body .

At Madame Patch, our goal is to normalize the conversation around women's pain, and to build bridges between understanding, curiosity and kindness.

2. Better pain management through experience

Experiencing a simulation, even a brief one, allows you to mentally prepare for this type of sensation.
Some women use a simulator to:

Becoming familiar with the sensations of contractions before childbirth ,

Testing breathing techniques ,

Learning to stay focused and relaxed despite the pain .

This form of sensory training helps to regain control over pain and to perceive it differently: no longer as an enemy, but as a signal from the body.

3. Promote empathy and dialogue

The contraction simulator often becomes a tool for connection and sharing .
When a partner, friend, or family member tries it, they become aware, even briefly, of what a contraction feels like.

This shared experience allows for open discussion, strengthens emotional support, and changes the perspective on menstrual or childbirth pain .

4. A tool for education and destigmatization

In a society where women's pain is still often minimized, the simulator acts as a concrete awareness-raising tool .

It helps to deconstruct taboos and to approach the subject with seriousness, pedagogy and respect.
It is a modern, playful and caring way to talk about the female body without embarrassment , especially with younger people or in educational settings.

5. A gentle and gradual approach with Madame Patch

The Madame Patch contraction simulator was designed with a different approach from classic simulators.

It offers a gradual progression of intensity , adapted to each individual profile;

It can reproduce both the sensation of menstruation and that of the first contractions of childbirth ;

And above all, it is part of a caring and educational approach , focused on understanding the body and not on raw pain.

It's a sensory and symbolic experience that gently and respectfully reconnects everyone to the reality of the female body. 💕