The hardest work occurs in this final phase of the first stage of labor, when your cervix fully dilates to 10 cm. It’s important for supporters to be fully focused on mom at this time – and not get offended if they don’t receive a positive response. Your support person can help you with soothing encouragement, rubbing your lower back or abdomen, helping with breathing techniques, and providing pleasant distractions with conversation or music. You may even want to walk around or get up to use the bathroom. Try to switch your positions frequently to get more comfortable. This is an excellent time to practice your breathing techniques and use relaxation techniques (such as fixating on an object or visualizing a peaceful scene to distract your mind from the pain of the contraction). Your contractions will last about 45 seconds to a minute and allow you only three to five minutes in between. True labor produces signs you don’t want to ignore.

This phase typically lasts from three to five hours and continues from the time your cervix is 3 cm until it is dilated to 7 cm. Active Laborīased on the timing of your contractions and other signs, your doctor or midwife will tell you to head to the hospital for active labor. This will help your doctor or midwife determine when you should go to the hospital.ĭuring this time, your support person can help you by being calm, timing your contractions, and offering you comfort and support. Time how long your contractions last and the amount of time between them. Ask your doctor if you can eat and drink something, which may give you energy later in the birthing process. Try to relax, take it easy, take a walk or do any mild activity that makes you feel better. You’ll generally work through early labor at home. This phase continues until your cervix is dilated to 3 cm. Contractions help your cervix thin (efface) and dilate (widen) to make it easier for your baby to move through your birth canal (vagina). You’ll experience contractions that last about 30 to 45 seconds, with five to 30 minutes between them. This early phase can last about eight to 12 hours. If you are truly in labor, the contractions won’t stop, and they’ll get harder and faster. These are irregular and often stop when you rest or lie down. They have mini contractions called Braxton Hicks contractions that are getting the body ready for the real thing. Many women, especially first-timers, experience false labor.

Bloody show, a brownish-red mucus discharge that generally blocks your cervix but falls out as your cervix dilates.

Gush or slow trickle of amniotic fluid as your “water breaks.” (The technical term is ruptured membranes.).

Lower back pain and cramping that doesn’t go away.

Contractions of your uterus that become stronger and more regular.

If you have any of the following - even if you’re not due for a few weeks - call your doctor to determine if you may be in labor: These are signs that you’re getting close. You may feel your baby dropping lower in your pelvis, and some women get a surge of energy to cook, clean or get things ready for the baby’s arrival. Am I in Labor?Īs your due date approaches, you’ll likely be watching closely for signs of labor. It has three phases of its own: early labor, active labor and transition phase.

The first stage of labor is the longest, typically taking 12 to 19 hours. Health care providers describe three stages of labor.

Knowing what to expect can help you stay relaxed and focused as you bring your baby into the world.Īlthough every delivery is unique, there’s a common process women share as they go through labor. Giving birth is an amazing process that raises all kinds of emotions: excitement, fear, nervousness, joy.

Nausea close to due date