What is the comparison to a woman who will give birth soon?
Rashi: We see new afflictions, and see them as signs of redemption, for we were promised to be redeemed amidst distress, like a Yoledes.
Radak citing his father: This refers to verse 16. The more that You afflict Yisrael, they always return to You and love You, like a Yoledes. When she is about to give birth, her pains are stronger. Even though she knows that her husband caused this, she does not hate him; she loves him! So when You strike us, we love You more and return to You with all the heart.
Malbim: You brought on us great pains, as if the time if birth and salvation came. Even though salvation did not come, we did not lose our hope.
What is "Mipanecha"?
Rashi: Due to Your decrees.
