Nature has designed labor and birth simply and elegantly. Although every labor and birth is unique, the process is remarkably and beautifully constant. Labor is divided into "stages" and "phases". This is simply a way to describe the typical changes that occur as labor progresses.
The First Stage
During this stage of labor, the cervix softens, thins, and begins to open. The baby settles into the pelvis. The process often starts out slowly with short, infrequent contractions of the uterus. Over a period of hours or sometimes days, the contractions become stronger and closer together. This is referred to as the Early Phases. As the contractions become stronger and increase in intensity, the cervix dilates (opens) and effaces (thins) and the baby moves lower in the pelvis. This is known as the Active Phase. Usually, the contractions become more intense as the cervix dilates the last few centimeters. This is referred to as the Transition Phase. At the end of the first stage of labor, the cervix is fully opened and the baby is ready to move through the birth canal.
As labor progresses and contractions become stronger, you will become more focused and serious. Changing positions frequently, walking, rocking or moving will help labor progress. Focused breathing, rhythmic vocalization, showers and baths, massage and the application of hot and cold are only a few of the ways that can help you progress through the first stage of labor more comfortably. Your need for continuous, focused labor support will increase as the work of labor becomes harder. Touch can provide comfort during labor, and practicing massage during your childbirth classes can be helpful preparation for labor.
The Second Stage
Now the baby maneuvers through the pelvis, rotating and slowly descending through the birth canal. This is a time when many women feel more clearheaded and have a renewed sense of optimism.
For some women, the initial contractions of this stage are strong and powerful. The urge to push comes quickly, sometimes even before the cervix is fully dilated.
But for most women, second-stage contractions increase gradually, much like those of the first stage of labor. Be prepared to follow your body. Changing positions, moving, rocking, and squatting will help the process. You may find yourself grunting or groaning during parts of the contractions as the pressure of the baby's descent increases. You may find that you hold your breath as you bear down. Your body will tell you how to push your baby out.
When your baby reaches the perineum, (vaginal opening) the contractions are very intense, often accompanied by a feeling of burning or stretching. When the head emerges, there is usually a tremendous sense of relief and some pressure with the delivery of the shoulders. Then the rest of the baby moves out easily.
The time it takes for all this to happen will vary, depending in part on the size and position of the baby as well as the environment and your freedom to move about and change positions. But keep in mind that as with the rest of your labor your body and your inner wisdom are your best guides.
The Third Stage
This stage refers to the delivery of the placenta, which usually happens within 10 to 30 minutes following the birth of the baby. This is when you finally get to experience the joy of holding your new baby and the delight of your accomplishment!
Your baby greets the world by taking his first breath and is placed on your abdomen. You will reach for him and touch, stroke, and embrace your baby. Being together provides exactly what you and your baby need after birth. Holding your baby close provides warmth. Touching and stroking stimulates your baby to maintain his breathing and other body rhythms. Skin to skin, your baby will snuggle into you, which sets the stage for relaxed, unhurried breastfeeding. The pressure of your baby on your abdomen, and eventually the latching on and sucking of your breasts will help the uterus stay firm and will decrease bleeding. Your baby is making the transition to life outside the womb.
It is known that women with continuous, nurturing care and support during labor give birth more easily. Think carefully about whom you'll invite to share in your labor. The people who surround you must be supportive of your beliefs and plans for the labor and must be able to convey to you a calm, competent, reassuring presence. Together you will embark on this most wonderful journey, called "Birth". This will most likely be the hardest work.
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