One of the most difficult, unforgettable and beautiful experiences of a mother's life is the birth of her child. It is important to discuss with your health care practitioner before going into labor what the plan is, when you should call your practitioner and you should start heading to the hospital. There are several stages of labor that lead to the delivery of a child. Each woman experiences labor differently, while the timing of each stage can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy.
Early Labor
The most common symptoms include strong, regular contractions lasting thirty to forty five seconds every five to 20 minutes. You may feel a backache, indigestion, or diarrhea. There may be a "bloody show." The cervix dilates during early labor, which can last for a few hours to days. During this stage, the mother should be relaxing, keeping track of contractions and communicating with the doctor about planning to go to the hospital. Using relaxation techniques and making yourself as comfortable as possible is important during this stage.
Active Labor
This stage lasts two to 3 1/2 hours, and contractions become stronger and longer, lasting about 40 to 60 seconds. There is more pain in the back, and the contractions are much more painful. During this period, the cervix dilates to 7cm. The contractions come closer together, and there is an increase in backache, leg pain, fatigue and more bloody show. Rupture of the membranes can occur it did not occur during early labor. Your practitioner will probably have you at the hospital early in this phase. Breathing exercises can be started during this phase if necessary. Relaxing and resting between contractions is important to reserve energy for the birth. Walking and urinating is also important to assist with the birthing process.
Advanced Active or Transitional Labor
The intensity of the contractions becomes strong. They come two to three minutes apart and last from one to 1 1/2 minutes. The cervix dilates to a full 10cm. The mother experiences strong lower-back pressure, rectal pressure and an urge to push. Some may feel nausea or exhaustion. Relaxing between contractions and panting and blowing help during this phase.
Pushing and Delivery
Pushing and delivery can last 20 minutes to two hours. Contractions become more regular and are about one minute to 1 1/2 minutes long. The urge to push becomes more overwhelming, and the woman pushes to give birth to the child. When the baby begins to crown, there might be pain and burning in the vaginal area. It is important to do what comes naturally during this stage and do the best you can to be relaxed and push as directed by your practitioner. After the birth of the baby, the umbilical cord is cut.
Delivery of the Placenta
Contractions begin five to 10 minutes after birth and the placenta is delivered. The mother sometimes experiences chills or shakiness. It can take up to a half hour for the placenta to deliver.
References
- March of Dimes: Stages of Labor
- Women's Health: Labor and Birth
- "What to Expect When You're Expecting"; Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi Murkoff and Sandee Hathaway; 1996
