In the throes of something/of doing something
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Intensity
Use when describing situations filled with strong emotions or dramatic changes. 
She was in the throes of grief after her mother's passing.
Pro Tip 2/3Struggle Implication
Implies a struggle or challenge within the intense experience being described. 
The team was in the throes of creating a new strategy.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal Pain
May imply difficulty or distress but not always physical pain. 
In the throes of the economic collapse, many lost their jobs.