Your new little bundle of joy has been steadily growing inside of you almost 40 weeks. That means it’s now time to think about the day you deliver. Not only will you be bringing a new baby into the world, but if you are a new mom, you will be experiencing something entirely new to you, labor.
What is Labor?
Labor occurs when your body is preparing and ultimately giving birth to your baby. It often starts with regular contractions causing changes to your cervix (the lower portion of your uterus that is the passageway to your vagina). These contractions are caused by your uterus muscles tightening and then relaxing, which helps push baby out when the time comes. Your cervix will also begin dilating during this time to make room for baby to pass through. Sometimes your bag of water will break first. If that happens, you should start making plans to go to the hospital.
Labor occurs in three stages:
- Stage 1 – Your body prepares for the birth of your baby
- Stage 2 – Delivery of your baby
- Stage 3 – Delivery of the placenta (the organ that develops to give your baby oxygen and nutrients; the placenta connects to the baby through the umbilical cord)
Signs of True Labor
Many women may think they are beginning to experience labor but find out it is a false alarm. This is because the uterus spends days to weeks preparing for labor with Braxton Hicks or practice contractions, which are less intense and less frequent than true contractions.
Here are some signs that you are in true labor:
- Regular contractions – Lasting 30-70 seconds and spaced consistently 5-10 minutes a part
- Strong contractions – Inability to walk or talk through them
- Pain in your belly and low back that does not go away
- Bloody show – Brownish or reddish mucus discharge
- Your water breaks
When in doubt call your doctor and they will advise if it is a false alarm or time to head into delivery. Northwest Family Clinics has OB doctors on call 24 hours a day to address any concerns you may have.
What Does Labor Feel Like?
Many new moms fear labor and delivery of their baby. While there can be a lot of uncertainty during this time, remember this is one of most special experiences of your life, and your doctor and nurse will be there to support you every step of the way. Yes, uterine contractions are painful as you progress through labor, but there are breathing techniques and pain medication that can help and nearly eliminate the pain. A large percentage of women describe the level of pain experienced as being similar to extreme menstrual cramps. However, every person is unique and therefore their experience with labor and delivery will be unique.
We encourage our new moms to focus more on the excitement of their new baby and less on the temporary discomfort that comes during labor. You doctor is happy to talk about all of your pain management options.
Discussing Labor With Your Doctor
Remember, your doctor knows you. They have treated you throughout your pregnancy and are the best resource to help you prepare for delivery. Come prepared to your next checkup with all of your questions, even the ones you may be embarrassed to ask.
We also encourage you to read, “A First Hand Experience of What to Expect During Labor”, to learn more about how mother of three Miriam describes her labor and delivery experiences.