Labour Stages Of Giving Birth
For the past nine months, you have been waiting for the moment to give birth. You have read as many books as you can on pregnancy and childbirth, and now you’re almost there. While the word “labour” conjures up images of hard work it refers to the greatest and most productive piece of work that you will ever do – giving birth to your baby.
Labour, birth and delivery
Labour is the process that leads to the birth and delivery of your baby. The first stage is when the cervix, or neck of the womb, starts to soften, or “ripen.” The cervix thins, or “effaces,” dilates, and starts to open, so that later on your baby will be able to leave the womb and come out into the wide world.
Labour Stages Of Giving Birth
Once your cervix is 10 cm dilated and 100 percent effaced, you have reached the second stage of labour, which is when you are ready to push. At this point, you will push your baby out into the world, finally giving birth.
After delivery, you will reach the third stage of labour, which is delivering the placenta. The placenta has to be delivered to prevent the development of post natal infections.
Labour and birthing techniques
No one ever said that labour is easy. However, it does not have to be overwhelming or traumatic. By following various techniques and adopting certain positions, you can make it as painless for yourself as possible and remember it as the most important and wonderful day of your life.
Remember that the pain that you will feel in contractions is there to help you. It indicates where you are and you can feel your body opening up towards the crescendo of birth. You may want to consider whether you want to dull this pain completely with an epidural, or explore other methods
For more information on pain relief during labour click here.
When it comes to giving birth, you may also find various positions extremely helpful. In the past, hospitals used to compel women to give birth on their backs. Today, while most places still expect women to deliver in that position, they are also open to other ideas. It may be a good idea to read more about labouring and birthing positions, as you might find this more comfortable.
Work out your own birth plan
Doing your own research before you give birth will make labour a lot easier for you. Once you have read up on pain relief and the positions that might work for you, you can write them all down on a comprehensive birth plan. That way, everyone who is taking care of you will know exactly how you want things to be done.
If you feel as if you are in control, you will be able to ride the storms of labour and remember it as the most wonderful day of your life – your baby’s birthday. And if it helps, whenever you do start to feel somewhat overwhelmed during the labour process, always think of the next stage, when you will be holding your precious little bundle in your arms and it will become a whole lot easier.
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