The journey to motherhood is a life-changing experience, and labour is a significant part of that journey. For many expectant mothers, the thought of labour can bring a mix of excitement, curiosity, and anxiety. If you are one of them, let us tell you that being well-informed can help you feel more prepared and confident.
In an exclusive interaction with us, our expert, Dr Chandana Narayana, Senior Consultant - Infertility and IVF, Kinder Hospitals - Bangalore, shared a list of essential things you need to know about labour before your delivery.
1. Understand the Stages of Labour
According to Dr Narayana, the labour is classified into three primary stages
First Stage: This is the longest stage, divided into early, active, and transition phases. Early labour involves mild contractions as your cervix begins to dilate. During active labour, contractions intensify, and the cervix dilates further. The transition phase is the most intense but shortest part, where the cervix dilates completely.
Second Stage: This stage involves pushing and delivering your baby. It can last from a few minutes to a few hours.
Third Stage: This is the delivery of the placenta, which usually happens within 30 minutes after your baby is born.
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2. Labour Can Be Unpredictable
Every labour is different. Some people deliver quickly, while others labour for what seems like an eternity. That too is because of factors like your health, where the baby is positioned, and if it is your first delivery, all of which affect how long and painful labour would be.
3. Identify Signs of Labour
Common signs to identify labour are:
- Regular, increasingly severe contractions
- Lower back pain
- A bloody or mucus-like flow (known as a bloody show)
- Your membranes rupture (you may feel and see a 'gush')
If you experience any of these signs, call your healthcare provider to have a discussion about your symptoms and what to do from here.
4. Pain Control Options
Labour can hurt, but pain can be well controlled. From Dr Narayana, your options are:
Non-pharmacologic Methods: The use of deep breathing, massage, warm baths and meditation.
Medical Options: Epidural anaesthesia, nitrous oxide, or intravenous pain medications.
Discuss your pain management preferences with your doctor or midwife beforehand to create a birth plan that suits you.
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5. Pack Your Hospital Bag Early
Start packing your hospital bag several weeks before your due date. Some essentials include:
- Comfortable clothing and toiletries
- Baby clothes and blankets
- Important documents, such as your ID and insurance information
- Snacks and drinks for energy
- Phone charger and entertainment options
6. Seek Support from Loved Ones
Having a trusted partner, family member, or friend by your side can make a big difference. Labour is a difficult time and this is when your family can offer emotional support, help you with comfort measures, and communicate your preferences to the medical team.
7. Be Flexible with Your Birth Plan
While a birth plan can be useful, it is equally important to be flexible. The labour and delivery may not go exactly as planned. Medical interventions may be necessary to ensure that you and the baby are safe.
8. Postpartum Recovery Begins Immediately
The recovery process starts right after delivery. You may experience vaginal soreness, uterine contractions, and hormonal shifts. Therefore, make arrangements for support at home during the initial weeks to help you rest and recover.
Bottomline
Labour is a natural process, but it pays to be educated and prepared. Take prenatal classes, ask your healthcare provider questions, and believe in your body. Remember that every labour is unique and no two pregnancies are the same, however, it is always good to be prepared for what is ahead of you!