In earlier times, pregnancy was often seen as a tragic ordeal, as childbirth usually involved cutting into the mother’s stomach — a practice that frequently claimed her life. According to legend, the spider demigod Mengidabrutkoel fell in love with a young woman from Ngiwal, and she became pregnant. To protect both her and their child, he sought the wisdom of his mother, who taught him the art of natural birth. When the time came, Mengidabrutkoel locked himself and his wife away to keep others from forcing a cesarean. When the baby’s cry finally rang out, the woman’s family, fearful she had died, rushed to the door. But Mengidabrutkoel opened it to reveal both mother and child safe and well — a moment that changed the birthing traditions of Palau forever.