Childbirth

Signs that you might be going into labor include:

• Regular contractions start to come closer together
• Leaking fluid or bleeding from the vagina
• Low, dull backache
• Abdominal (belly) cramps

The signs of labor, when labor starts, and the time it takes to deliver your baby can vary with each pregnancy. Call your health care provider if you have any signs of labor, even if it is before your due date.

Labor happens in three stages.

• The first stage begins with contractions. This stage could last for hours or days. It continues until your cervix has become thinner and dilated (stretched) to about 4 inches wide to allow your baby to pass through.
• The second stage is when you begin to push downward. Crowning is when your baby’s scalp comes into view. Shortly afterward, your baby is born.
• The third stage is when you deliver the placenta, and your provider cuts the umbilical cord.

Sometimes, mothers need to have labor induced. Medicines or other methods are used to start labor. This is usually only done when the due date has passed or if a problem with the pregnancy risks the health of the mother or the fetus.

Mothers and their babies are closely monitored during labor and delivery. Delivery can occur either vaginally through the birth canal, or if there are complications, the delivery may be done surgically by a Cesarean section. This is when the baby is taken out through your abdomen (belly) and uterus.

The amount of pain during childbirth can vary based on the size and position of the baby, your level of comfort with the process, and the strength of your contractions.

Options for pain relief during labor and delivery may include:

• Medicines may reduce the pain, but they don’t stop it completely.
• Natural methods ease pain without taking medicines. A few examples include using relaxation techniques, a birthing ball, massage, or taking a bath or shower.
• Combination of medicines and natural methods.

Discuss your options, risks, and benefits of pain relief during labor and delivery with your provider before your due date.