The labouring process is different for every woman, and it can differ significantly even between pregnancies. A woman may occasionally only experience brief labour. Other times, labour may test a woman's mental and physical fortitude.
You can assist yourself during the various stages of labour by using a variety of comfort measures to deal with whatever happens. They won't guarantee a pain-free delivery, but they can make you feel less uncomfortable, speed up the labour process, and have more control over the process. Here is a guide of the phases of labour and advice on how to cope with them.
Labour and delivery can be divided into three stages
The first stage:
This is the longest stage of labour and is characterized by the onset of contractions and the thinning and opening of the cervix. It can last for several hours or even days for some women. To cope with this stage, you should:
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
• Try to rest between contractions
• Use relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises or visualization
• Take a warm bath or shower to help ease discomfort
• Move around and change positions to help manage pain and encourage labour progression
• Consider using a birthing ball, massage or acupressure to ease the pain
The second stage:
This is the stage when the baby is born. The cervix is fully dilated, and the mother feels the urge to push. This stage can last from a few minutes to a few hours. To cope with this stage, you should:
• Listen to your healthcare provider's instructions on how to push
• Focus on breathing and pushing with each contraction
• Try different positions to find what is most comfortable
• Use a birthing ball or other tools to help with pushing
• Have a supportive partner or a doula present
The third stage:
This is the stage when the placenta is delivered. This stage usually lasts between 5 to 30 minutes. To cope with this stage, you should:
• Relax and let your body do its work
• Focus on your breathing and your baby
• Avoid pushing until your healthcare provider instructs you to
• Bond with your baby during skin-to-skin contact
It's important to remember that every labour and delivery is different, and each woman copes with the process differently. It's essential to discuss your preferences and needs with your healthcare provider and support team beforehand to develop a personalized birth plan that takes your individual needs into account.
References:
1. Artal-Mittelmark, R. (2021) Management of normal labor - gynecology and obstetrics, MSD Manual Professional Edition. MSD Manuals. Available at: https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/normal-labor-and-delivery/management-of-normal-labor (Accessed: March 20, 2023).
2. Leeder, J. (2018) Giving birth: The four stages of labour, Today's Parent. Available at: https://www.todaysparent.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/the-stages-of-labour/ (Accessed: March 20, 2023).
3. Naytal, K. (2022) Tips for coping with labour pain from a midwife, Naytal. Available at: https://naytal.uk/blog/coping-with-labour-pain-tips (Accessed: March 20, 2023).
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