What to expect during labor

It s normal to feel scared before your labour but arming yourself with all the facts will help you to feel prepared.

Are you prepared for the big day? Don't worry! Here's an overview of the labor process, and some good advice on how to prepare yourself.

Childbirth is a wonderful experience but most women feel nervous, and even scared, before the big day arrives. The best advice is to be prepared. If you know what to expect during labor, it can be a more positive time.

Q How will I know when I'm in labor?
A Most women go into labor between 38 and 42 weeks of the pregnancy.

As labor begins, the cervix dilates. The uterus contracts at regular intervals. When it contracts, the abdomen becomes hard, and then relaxes between the contractions. The contractions usually start in the back and move to the front. Certain changes (see box) can help women know when they've gone into labor.

You could have periods of false labor, a series of irregular contractions, before true labor has started. Called Braxton Hicks contractions, these are normal and not harmful, but can be painful! Usually, false labor contractions are less regular, less strong and, unlike true labor contractions, don't get closer together. During true labor, the contractions often become more regular and harder if you walk around. If in doubt, ask your doctor.

Q What happens when I'm in labor?
A When your labor becomes established you have regular and painful contractions and your cervix dilates from 3-4 cm to 10 cm. This is called the first stage and, during this time, your health care team can monitor: the length, strength and time between your contractions; whether the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm); and the baby's health and wellbeing.

The end of the first stage–on average for a first pregnancy, 10 12 hours after labor has become established–leads to the transitional phase. Some women can suddenly become shivery and sweaty and feel out of control. You're in the second stage when your cervix is 10 cm dilated. Some women feel the urge to bear down (or push), others might have a short rest.

In the second stage, you can use the pain of the contractions to push the baby through the birth canal. Women often feel the contractions as "expulsive urges." As the baby's head comes out of the birth canal, you may feel stinging and burning sensations, due to the skin stretching. Then there's a short wait before the next contraction, so that the baby can rotate its shoulders and fit through the pelvis. With the next contractions, the baby is born!

In the third stage, the placenta (or afterbirth) is delivered. Some women experience period-like pains, but most don't even notice!

Q What happens after the birth?
A The vagina and perineum (the skin between the vagina and anus) is checked. If you need stitches, you'll be given pain relief. In the meantime, your baby will be weighed and measured. You may be moved to the postpartum ward or, if you and your baby are in good health, allowed to go home.