Labor and Delivery

As you approach the end of your pregnancy, you may notice several things happening in preparation for birth. The baby will settle into the lower part of the uterus, most often, head first. You may also notice increased vaginal secretions and experience increased backaches.

Slight contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, may be experienced. These contractions are usually called “false labor” because the cervix doesn’t change as a result of the contraction. They are not an indication that you are in labor. You may experience this type of contraction a few days to a month before term.

One of the signs indicating you may soon be in labor is the passing of the mucous plug that blocks the cervical opening during pregnancy and aids in the prevention of infection in the uterus. You may also notice a blood-tinged mucous discharge from the cervix just prior to the beginning of labor, called the bloody show.

Signs of Labor
Although every woman experiences labor differently, some common signs include:

Blood-tinged mucous
Contractions
Leaking of vaginal fluid (referred to as you water breaking)
Feeling like you have gas, heartburn, indigestion or a backache

Discuss the signs of labor with your doctor, who can give you special instructions about determining when you need to come to the hospital and the admission process.

Stages of Labor
There are three stages of labor. The first stage of labor begins when the uterine contractions exert the pressure necessary to dilates the cervix. The cervix, which is normally closed, must dilate to about four inches wide (10 centimeters), the size of an average newborn’s head. The first stage of labor lasts an average of 12-14 hours for the first child and about seven hours for subsequent children. It is during the later part of this stage of labor you may want to implement breathing techniques learned in pain control classes or request some type of pain or nausea medication. Anesthetics may also be available to you. You should talk about these options with your doctor prior to going into labor. Your doctor will be able to discuss the positive and negative implications of the various types of pain relief most appropriate for you.

The second stage of labor begins when you are fully dilated and the baby no longer meets resistance at the cervix. Contractions are more frequent and intense during this stage, aided by pushing and involuntary abdominal muscle contractions. In most deliveries, the baby will crown and then the head and shoulders are delivered. The second stage of labor may last up to two hours.

If the baby is having difficulty making its way through the birth canal, it may be necessary for your doctor to use forceps or mild suction to assist the baby.

If other, more serious complications arise, it may be necessary to do a cesarean birth, delivering the baby by making a surgical incision into the abdomen and uterus.

The third stage of labor lasts from the birth of the baby to the delivery of the placenta. Your recovery and postpartum period begins following the expulsion of the placenta.

Understanding the various stages of labor and what to expect during each of those stages is an important part of a successful delivery. Saint Francis Hospital’s expectant family series will help you and your family prepare for this difficult, yet wonderful event.

Watching Baby Grow
Complications of Pregnancy
Labor & Delivery
Pain Relief Medications & Anesthetics
Cesarean Birth & VBAC