Breathing techniques, visualization and a supportive partner can all help you deal with labour.

It is normal during pregnancy to worry about complications during the birth or your own ability to cope with the pain of labour. This section will help you learn what to expect during the labour and birth.

What are the signs of labour? Many women experience painless Braxton-Hicks contractions for many weeks before pregnancy. Near the end of your pregnancy, these contractions become more intense, and may be mistaken for the beginning of labour. Information about how to identify the signs of premature labour, and about how to distinguish between early and established labour when you have reached your due date is provided in the sections listed below.

You can also use these links to learn more about what happens once labour begins. Pain control options are discussed, as well as strategies that will help you relax and make the birth easier.

Some brief information is provided about what happens if you need help during the birth. Why and when is an episiotomy done? What happens if the doctor uses forceps or does a cesarean section? Use the links below to explore all of these questions.

You can also learn about what happens immediately after the baby is born. How will your newborn's health be monitored and what happens to you and your body immediately after the birth?

If you choose to give birth in a hospital, the policies and procedures of that hospital will influence many of these experiences. You can use the questions suggested in our Choosing a Hospital section to investigate these policies before the birth.

• Premature labour

• Labour

• Coping with pain

• When you need help

• Immediately after the birth