The Stages of Labour

Early Labour

During this stage of labour, the cervix begins to thin and opens to three centimetres. The vaginal mucus may be blood-tinged and you will begin to experience contractions. The contractions are still more than five minutes apart and not too strong. You may be able to talk or be active even during contractions. To cope with this stage of labour:

• eat whatever you feel like eating – easily digested foods like toast, honey, jam, broth, gelatin and crackers are often preferred
• use relaxation techniques
• rest while labour is not demanding
• take a shower or bath to relax

Active Labour

During this stage of labour the contractions are stronger, longer and less than five minutes apart. Usually you can't talk or walk during contractions. To cope with this stage of labour:

• use coping techniques, such as relaxation, positioning, massage, showers, vocalization, or pain medication
• remember to urinate every hour or two
• drink juice for energy
• move around as much as possible

Your labour support person should stay with you, taking your cues on how to help.

Transition

During this stage of labour, the cervix is dilated from seven to 10 centimetres. You may experience long, strong contractions, with little time between them. You may feel an urge to push at the height of each contraction. You may also experience:

• trembling
• vomiting
• irritability
• backache
• despair
• feeling hot and cold
• legs shaking

During this period your labour support person should be following your lead and providing the physical and emotional support you need. Communication about what you want and need is important. During some labours, having your partner provide a steady pressure on your lower back may help. Take one contraction at a time, and remember that the baby is almost here.

Birth

The cervix has now fully dilated to 10 centimetres. The contractions get further apart and then closer together again. You may be dozy and unfocused between contractions. As the baby begins to move down the birth canal, you may feel a renewed burst of energy. If you are not using an anesthetic, you may feel a stinging sensation as the baby's head reaches the vaginal opening. After the head emerges, the baby rotates and the shoulders and the body are born. During this time:

• Allow yourself time to learn how to push.
• You should push as you feel the urge, your body will help you.
• Establish your own pushing pattern.
• Work with your nurse or midwife to help determine the best possible position.
• Panting or blowing to avoid pushing during the birth of the head can mean less straining and tearing.

After the Birth

The placenta emerges and the cord is clamped and cut. You may feel shaky but you may also have a renewed burst of energy. You will have more contractions as the placenta comes out and afterwards. You may feel very emotional at this time. During this stage, you may wish to

• cut the cord
• hold your new baby, with help if necessary
• talk to the baby – your voice will be familiar
• offer your breast when ready
• relax and recover

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