Is there not something kind of monstrous about it all?

I think its a matter of opinion. To some people, childbirth is a beautiful thing, in your case its monstrous. It also depends if you actually wanted to have a baby or if it was a "oops" baby. Im a mix of both though. I think it is embarassing to have you r legs spread in front of everyone, but i think when it comes time for me to have my baby that will be the last thing on my mind, im sure my mind will be occupied elsewhere.