After months of preparing for the arrival of their baby, expectant parents often face labor and delivery with a mix of anxiety and joyful anticipation. First-time mothers wonder what to expect, while experienced moms are curious about how this birth will compare to previous ones.
Although each labor and delivery experience is unique, all share some common characteristics. By being aware of the natural progression of labor and the physical and emotional changes you will experience, you can prepare for childbirth. This can help ensure a positive experience that you will always remember.
The process of labor consists of a series of involuntary muscle contractions that cause the uterus to tighten and relax. As the uterus contracts, the muscle fibers shorten and force the baby against the cervix, or the opening of the uterus. The contractions cause the cervix to dilate, or open, and efface, or shorten, to provide an adequate passageway through which the baby can descend. During labor, the cervix will dilate to 10 centimeters.
First Stage of Labor
During the first stage of labor, contractions begin. At first, they are mild, irregular, and brief, and may feel like menstrual cramps, gas, backache, pressure in the pelvis, or tightening just above the pubic bone and top of thighs. Pink vaginal discharge, rupture of the membranes, or diarrhea are also common.
You should contact your physician or nurse-midwife once labor begins, in order to receive instructions on when you should report to the hospital or birthing center. Until then, you may continue light, normal activities, including making last-minute arrangements. Rest and relaxation during this time will help you conserve energy for the later stages of labor.
The onset of labor evokes many emotions. You may be excited about your baby’s birth, and relieved that your long pregnancy is coming to an end. The pain is generally well-tolerated at this stage, and you will probably be in good spirits.
At this point, your labor partner should begin to time contractions, and also help you to relax by providing diversions. Your partner should be calm and confident and assist with slow-paced breathing when it becomes necessary. When the time comes to go to the hospital or birthing center, your labor partner should handle insurance registration and verification while you undergo initial examinations.
As first-stage labor progresses, the cervix continues to dilate, and contractions become more intense. Resting time between contractions will decrease. You may experience dry mouth, nausea or vomiting, perspiration, and diarrhea.
To relieve discomfort, you can try lying on your side, applying heat or cold to tension spots, massage, and pelvic rocking.
When contractions become continuous, you will be unable to relax between them. Fatigue becomes evident in this phase, and you may become restless and uncertain of your ability to stay in control during contractions. You will need to intently focus on working through each contraction. You may temporarily feel unable to go on, and may also be less responsive to those around you and more indecisive and irritable.
During this time, your labor partner should provide constant companionship and encouragement. It is important for your labor partner to accept your state of mind and continue to praise your efforts. If your discomfort becomes unbearable, your partner should contact a nurse for pain medication.
Second Stage of Labor
In the second stage of labor, you will deliver the baby through the uterus. Contractions are accompanied by an irresistible urge to push.
Your first attempts at pushing may seem uncoordinated. Emotionally, you may experience an initial panic that is replaced by a sudden burst of energy. You will become indifferent to your surroundings as you turn your attention inward.
At this time, your labor partner should help you assume your pushing position and offer encouragement as you push. Despite the excitement of the impending birth, it is important that your coach stay focused on you.
Third Stage of Labor
When the baby is delivered, your first concern will probably be reassurance that your child is healthy. The doctor or nurse-midwife may place the infant on your chest for you to hold, before beginning brief newborn tests.
After the baby is delivered, contractions will cease temporarily, and then resume to help expel the placenta. You may feel discomfort as the uterus rises in the abdomen and becomes firm. The subsequent recovery period may be accompanied by vaginal bleeding, as well as shaking and chills.
Once the placenta is delivered, it is time to enjoy the fruits of your labor and begin bonding with your new arrival.