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Through the Phases and Stages of Labor

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If your only experience with labor is watching a dramatized version of it on a TV show or movie, you might think that labor strikes out of nowhere and involves a lot of instantaneous crying, screaming and pushing. Thankfully, according to the American Pregnancy Association, expectant mothers can actually expect to go through three very distinct stages of labor.

What to Expect in Stage One Labor

The first stage of labor is the longest and characterized by three phases: the early labor phase (onset of labor-3 cm dilation), the active labor phase (the time when the cervix is dilated 3 cm-7 cm), and the transition labor phase (the time when the cervix is dilated 7 cm-10 cm). Each phase brings about unique challenges and different waves of emotions. Here’s how you can prepare for each one with confidence.

The early labor phase, also known as latent labor, typically lasts somewhere between 8 and 12 hours. This time is marked by mild and irregular contractions that build in both intensity, frequency and consistency. Many women describe the first sensations of early labor as pains similar to menstrual cramps. Others note that they experience lower back aches or feel pelvic pressure. Still more experience indigestion or diarrhea. Contractions will last roughly 30-45 seconds every 5-30 minutes until the cervix effaces and dilates to 3 cm. If you find yourself going through early labor, be sure to start a record of your contractions and note whether they’re growing more regular, intense and longer.

Some women find their water breaks during early labor, a result of the amniotic sac rupturing. It’s important to note what time it broke, and what color or odor is present with the fluid (if any). If your water doesn’t break during early labor, it will at some point later on in the first stage of labor.

Throughout the first phase of labor, the most important thing a mother can do is relax. Sometimes that’s easier said than done. If you find yourself feeling anxious, giddy, euphoric, panic-stricken or all of the above, rest assured that’s all very normal. The goal throughout riding those waves of emotion is to conserve energy for the work that is yet to come. If you find yourself laboring throughout the day, drink plenty of water and keep small snacks on hand. Maintaining simple home routines, such as washing dishes or putting away laundry (not to mention packing your bag for the hospital if it’s not already prepared), is a great way to keep your mind occupied and your body at ease. If you find yourself in early labor at night, consider taking a warm shower and trying to get a bit of shut-eye. There’s no need to head to the hospital just yet, but it wouldn’t be a bad idea to call your doctor to inform him or her of your progress. For now, enjoy the familiarity and comfort that home brings.

The active labor phase is when it’s officially time to hit the road and head to the hospital. This period of time is distinguishably different from the early phase of labor. Contractions are increasingly stronger, last longer (45-60 seconds, to be precise) and are closer together, striking roughly every 3-5 minutes. Your support system (family, best friend, doula, etc.) will be an invaluable help to you, providing words of encouragement, offering back rubs, keeping track of contractions (and learning to read the monitor when at the hospital or birthing center), and generally giving you undivided attention. Throughout this phase, remember to switch positions frequently. This is a good time to roll around on a birthing ball, sway back and forth making figure 8s with your belly, walk the halls or take a warm bath if you haven’t already. Continue to stay hydrated. And if you find you need medication for pain relief, now is the time to ask for an epidural.

The transition phase is considered the most challenging phase but, thankfully, it’s also the shortest. Contractions may roll one on top of the other, lasting over a minute with as little as a 2-minute rest between. They also bring with them new sensations, such as nausea, hot flashes, chills and vomiting. They key is to focus solely on getting through one contraction at a time, not the 30 minutes to 2 hours that this phase may last. If your support system came in handy during active labor, they’re going to be worth their weight in gold during this crucial time, reminding you to relax, guiding you through breathing techniques and encouraging you with lots of praise (or remaining quiet if that’s what you prefer). Unless you are numb from an epidural, it is normal to experience intense pressure in your back, rectum and perineum; crampy legs that shake uncontrollably; drowsiness between each contraction; and fatigue and exhaustion. Birthing a baby is hard work, but it can also be exhilarating. If you feel like you’re about to throw in the towel, hang in there, Mama—your baby is almost here! As your cervix completes dilating, here are some things you can do.

Breathe easy. Nothing about labor is easy, but breathing can be a key factor in a healthy delivery. If you feel the urge to push before you are fully dilated, ask your doula or doctor for some advice. Pushing too soon can result in cervical swelling, with may delay Baby’s arrival. However, simple breathing techniques such as blowing or panting can help stave off the urge until it’s time.

Speak up. Perhaps you appreciated having someone hold your hand through active labor but you don’t want to be touched now. Say something!

Stay focused. Keep your eye on the prize—your little one will be here before you know it!

Congratulations! At 10 cm dilated, you’ve made it through the three phases of stage one labor and onto stage two: Baby’s delivery!

Lauren Greenlee is a freelance writer and a mom of three hailing from Olathe. Her children all came fast and furious as she experienced precipitous labor with each of their deliveries (that’s all stages and phases of labor in under 3-5 hours). She considers it a miracle that none of them were born while en route to the hospital!

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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