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Birthing 101: Understanding the 3 Stages of Labor

www.miamiobgyns.com/blog/3-stages-of-labor/<br><br>This may shock you… but labor is not the portrayal you see in the movies *gasp*! Labor progresses in stages and each stage can take time, or go fast. In terms of timing each case differs, but for all cases there are 3 stages of labor.<br><br>

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Birthing 101: Understanding the 3 Stages of Labor

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  1. Birthing 101: Understandingthe 3 Stages of Labor Get in touch: (305) 615-6147info@miamiobgyns.com www.miamiobgyns.com

  2. Introduction This may shock you… but labor is not the portrayal you see in the movies *gasp*! Labor progresses in stages and each stage can take time, or go fast. In terms of timing each case differs, but for all cases there are 3 stages of labor.

  3. 3 Stages of Labor It’s true, generally a woman due to give birth doesn’t go from zero to crowning in a few minutes… in fact it’s a rare case when a woman goes from zero to having her water break in a few minutes, and in some cases, the doctor has to break the water for a woman in labor in order to help her dilate!

  4. 3 Stages of Labor We want you to be prepared for the experience, but not overwhelmed. So we broke down the stages for you with the basic information you need to understand what happens in each stage. We also advise you talk to your doctor and perhaps take a prenatal class so that you can be fully informed of the amazing experience you are heading towards!

  5. Stage 1: Early Labor This is when the contractions begin. It can feel like finger-like projections of discomfort or pain that start at your back and radiate outwards towards the center of your belly.

  6. False Labor Pains vs. Early Labor Many women experience false labor pains called Braxton-Hicks contractions, but the contractions of stage 1, known as early labor, have a couple of characteristics that distinguish them from Braxton-Hicks, or false labor.

  7. Early Labor Signs: • Regular intervals • Cervical dilation • Effacement (cervix begins to thin)

  8. Early Labor You will probably call your doctor just to let him or her know when you are in the early stages of labor. There is usually no reason to go to the hospital immediately.

  9. Early Labor If you are experiencing these contractions earlier than about 37 weeks, then you will proceed according to your doctor’s advice. You and your doctor will make a plan according to what is medically necessary.

  10. Stage 2: Active Labor While you will be mostly at home when early labor hits, active labor is another story. During early labor, your cervix has begun to dilate but not much (only about 4 centimeters).

  11. Active Labor When the cervix reaches five centimeters, you are entering stage 2 of labor, or active labor. Call your doctor first before hopping in your car and heading for the hospital. If your water hasn’t broken, your doctor may not advise you come to the hospital just yet.

  12. Active Labor This is also where you start using those breathing techniques you learned in childbirth class. They won’t stop the pain of the contractions, but will help keep you calmer, quieter, and more relaxed.

  13. Heading to the Hospital Once your water breaks, you will want to head to the hospital. Once you are admitted, your doctor or your doctor’s staff should meet you there. The doctor and staff will begin to check you and see how your labor is progressing.

  14. Heading to the Hospital Even though you may long to relax in your hospital room and lay in bed, your doctor may suggest you walk the halls if your dilation is going slow. This moving about may actually feel good to some mothers about to deliver. Stage 2, or active labor, can take a couple of hours to several hours.

  15. Stage 3: Transition You are almost fully dilated at stage 3. The baby has descended into the birth canal and is ready to be pushed out. The doctor is watching closely to confirm that you are fully dilated and the baby is in the correct position to be safely delivered.

  16. Transition The doctor’s orders are crucial in this stage and you must listen carefully. Many mothers are ready to push that little one out into the world, but the doctor will guide you and let you know when it’s the right time to push.

  17. Transition This can be hard especially with the contractions coming on fast and furious, and the desire to push seems overwhelming. Once given the order to ‘push’ the delivery moves very quickly and, right there amidst all the pain, the delivery suddenly comes to a quiet halt, and your little one is wailing to beat the band!

  18. Conclusion Labor is a natural process. The body knows what to do to ready itself for delivery of this new life. Knowing what your body is doing to prepare for this event is important. Knowledge of the 3 stages of labor will help you rest easier and be ready when your body is!

  19. Get in touch: (305) 615-6147 info@miamiobgyns.com www.miamiobgyns.com

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