You & Your Family

Home / Pregnancy Articles / Pregnancy & Birth / The Story of Birth

The Story of Birth

By Adair R. Heyl, Ph.D., and Pete S. Heyl, M.D.
2009-12-08 17:51:26

Ask ten mothers to describe their labors, and you’ll hear ten different stories. Labor is unique, varying in length and intensity for each mom and from one pregnancy to the next. But all women in labor go through the same three stages. Labor involves contractions, the progressive tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscle in a rhythmic pattern that opens the cervix and pushes the baby through the birth canal. The process can last about 15 to 20 hours with a first baby and about 8 hours with a second.

From early pregnancy, you might notice a tightening and relaxing of your uterus, followed by what is often described as pressure and, rarely, as pain. These Braxton-Hicks contractions are normal and become more frequent as your pregnancy advances.

It’s not always easy to tell if labor pains are the “real thing.” True labor often resembles closely false labor, except that false labor does not result in progressive dilatation of the cervix. False labor resolves with hydration, sedation and rest.

From a few hours up to a week or two before labor, “lightening,” which usually occurs with a first pregnancy, may happen as the fetal head engages in the pelvis. An expectant mom’s breathing is sometimes easier as a result. Since the fetus presses more on the bladder, you may feel an increased urge to urinate.

The loss of the mucous plug often signifies the onset of labor is near. This may occur hours or up to two weeks before true labor begins. The mucous plug forms during pregnancy to seal the cervix, but as the cervix begins to open, mucous seeps into the vagina as a thick or blood-tinged discharge. A loss of clear liquid may mean a rupture of the membranes, and you should call your doctor.

STAGE 1: Early Labor, Active Labor and Transition
The first stage of labor lasts the longest and has three stages of its own — early labor, active labor and transition. The cervix opens from zero to ten centimeters during this stage. Early labor begins when the cervix thins (effaces) and opens (dilates) to three to four centimeters, preparing for the fetal journey from the uterus through the birth canal. Contractions last from 30 to 60 seconds and occur every 5 to 20 minutes; they may be mild, moderate or intense. This period may last only a few hours, or, for first-time moms, a day or more. A labor that lasts more than 24 hours is not normal. Some women are not aware that their cervix is opening. Their first sign of labor may be an upset stomach, diarrhea, a lower backache or a blood-tinged discharge from the vagina, known as a bloody show.

You can continue with daily activities, or relax, listen to music, watch TV, shower or practice slow breathing. Drink water and urinate often to avoid dehydration. Don’t eat a large meal in case anesthesia is required. Ask your doctor when to call and what to do if your membranes rupture.

You will be asked to come to the hospital or birthing center during the active phase of labor. Active labor brings stronger contractions every two to four minutes lasting from 45 to 60 seconds, or even longer. The cervix opens from seven to ten centimeters and is thus completely dilated. This phase averages from three to eight hours.

You should not be afraid to ask for medication to stay in control and/or to assist in the delivery. In the meantime, walking may help, stopping to take slow breaths during contractions. Your birth coach can apply ice or warm compresses to your lower back. If you are having lower back pain, try rolling on a birthing ball or changing positions.

Transition is marked by strong frequent contractions that reach peak intensity and last about 90 seconds each. By the time one contraction ends, it seems another begins. This phase may last from 15 minutes to three hours. The cervix stretches from seven to ten centimeters and is thus “complete.” There will be intense pressure on the lower back and rectum. Your healthcare team will tell you not to push because extra pressure could cause the cervix to swell and tear. Focus on one contraction at a time, knowing that with each, you are closer to holding your baby.

STAGE 2: Birth
Delivery can take a few minutes or two hours. The second stage is the “pushing” phase. The cervix is fully dilated. Your doctor will tell you when to push. Over two hours with no progress is called prolonged second stage and is not normal, though there is no time limit for delivery.

Most women opt to vary positions: Some prefer a birthing bed; others choose to squat or labor on all fours. The breathing techniques learned in birthing classes can keep you focused on pushing during — and relaxing between — contractions. A back massage can help you relax.

Labor is well named — it is work — but the effort is well worth it, as you rejoice in seeing your baby. Right after birth, your baby will be placed on your abdomen for you to examine, caress and nurse, if you desire. You are now a new parent!

STAGE 3: Placenta Is Delivered
When your doctor sees signs of separation of the placenta (afterbirth) from the uterine wall about 5 to 30 minutes after delivery, your lower abdomen might be massaged to aid the uterus in expelling the placenta. Usually one or two pushes delivers it easily. Your physician will check that all portions of the placenta are expelled, which minimizes the chances of bleeding or infection. If you need suturing, you will be injected with a lo- cal anesthetic, if you are not already numb. You may receive medication to encourage uterine contractions to decrease bleeding.

Talk with your delivery team regard- ing the protocol they follow for labor and delivery, and rely on them to guide you through the process. Read books and articles, and ask questions. The more informed you are, the smoother the progression of labor and delivery.

If you have a birth story to share, email it to us.editor@cwcomms.com. Labor is work, but the effort is well worth it!

 

Related Articles

	The Story on Shots CDC tells us why vaccines are so important today as ever
	Your Birth Plan One of the big decisions to be made during pregnancy is how you want to deliver your baby. Here are the options.
	Helping Prepare for a Potential Preterm Birth FDA-approved test helps women and doctors manage high-risk pregnancies.
	Taking Charge You can use the birth skills you come by naturally
	Having a Plan Being well informed and making decisions ahead of time can help make labor and delivery progress more smoothly
	It's Time! What to expect during the stages leading up to your baby's debut
	Making a Statement Announcing your baby's arrival is an important part of your big day. Here's how to get it right.

 

<< back to Pregnancy & Birth Articles