Welcoming a baby into your life is nothing short of magical.
It’s the start of an incredible new chapter, but let’s be real—it’s also a mix of excitement, nerves, and a million questions.
As your due date gets closer, you might feel a little overwhelmed, and that’s okay!
Knowing what to expect during labor and delivery can help you feel more confident and prepared.
After giving birth to three kids, I can tell you about each stage of labor, what happens during delivery, and all the little details in between.
So, whether you’re a first-time parent or need a quick refresher, you will surely learn a new thing here!
The Stages of Labour
Labor is like a marathon. It has different stages, each with its own milestones.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.
1. First Stage of Labour: Early and Active Labour
The first stage is the longest, and it’s divided into two parts: early labor and active labor.
Early Labour
During early labor, contractions are mild and irregular.
This is your body’s way of getting your cervix ready. It starts to thin out (effacement) and open up (dilate).
For first-time moms, this phase can last hours—or even days.
Signs of Early Labour:
- Mild, irregular contractions.
- Back pain or mild cramps.
- Loss of the mucus plug (you might hear it called the “bloody show”).
- Feeling increased pelvic pressure.
What You Can Do:
- Rest as much as possible—you’ll need the energy later.
- Stay hydrated.
- Eat light, healthy snacks (think fruit, crackers, or soup).
- Use relaxation tricks like a warm bath or slow, deep breaths.
If the contractions start getting stronger and closer together, it’s time to call your doctor or midwife.
Active Labour
Things start to pick up in active labor. Contractions are stronger, longer, and more regular—lasting about 60 seconds every 3 to 5 minutes.
Your cervix will dilate from 6 cm to the full 10 cm.
Signs You’re in Active Labour:
- Intense contractions that don’t go away.
- Difficulty talking or moving during contractions.
- Increasing pressure or the urge to push.
What You Can Do:
- Head to the hospital or birthing center (if you’re not already there).
- Use your breathing techniques to stay calm.
- Lean on your support person, whether that’s your partner, a doula, or a family member.
- If you’re considering pain relief, now’s the time to discuss it with your provider.
2. Second Stage of Labour: Pushing and Delivery
This is where you meet your baby!
The second stage begins when your cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm and lasts until your baby is born.
For some, it’s a quick 20 minutes. For others, it might take a few hours, especially if it’s your first baby.
What It Feels Like:
- A strong urge to push with each contraction.
- Pressure in your pelvis and rectum (some say it feels like you need to poop—totally normal!).
- A burning or stretching sensation as your baby’s head crowns.
What You Can Do:
- Listen to your body—and your healthcare provider. They’ll guide you on when and how to push.
- Try different positions to find what’s comfortable (squatting, side-lying, or even hands and knees).
- Stay focused on your breathing and take breaks between contractions.
When your baby finally arrives, prepare for a rush of emotions. It’s pure magic.
3. Third Stage of Labour: Delivery of the Placenta
After your baby is born, there’s still one more thing to do—deliver the placenta.
This stage is much shorter, usually 5 to 30 minutes.
What to Expect:
- Mild contractions to help your body expel the placenta.
- Your doctor or midwife may gently press on your belly to assist.
- You’ll likely feel a sense of relief now that the hard work is done.
Afterward, you can finally relax and enjoy some skin-to-skin time with your little one.
Pain Management During Labour
Labor is intense, and every person’s experience is different.
The good news? There are lots of ways to manage pain—both natural and medical.
Non-Medical Pain Relief
If you prefer a drug-free approach, here are some options:
Breathing Techniques:
- Try slow, deep breaths to stay calm and focused.
- Patterned breathing (like inhaling for 4 counts and exhaling for 4) can help during contractions.
Movement:
- Walk around, sway, or use a birthing ball.
- Changing positions can reduce discomfort and help labor progress.
Water Therapy:
- A warm shower or birthing pool can work wonders.
Medical Pain Relief
Sometimes, medical interventions are the right choice—and that’s okay!
Epidural:
- Provides excellent pain relief, numbing your lower body.
- Requires a needle in your lower back (sounds scary, but it’s quick and effective).
Nitrous Oxide:
- Also called “laughing gas,” it helps take the edge off without heavy sedation.
IV Medications:
- Quick pain relief through an IV. However, it may cause drowsiness.
Remember, there’s no “right” way to manage labor pain. Choose what feels best for you.
What to Expect After Delivery
Once your baby is here, the focus shifts to recovery and bonding.
For Mom:
- Afterpains: You might feel mild cramps as your uterus shrinks back down.
- Vaginal Discharge: It’s called lochia and can last for a few weeks.
- Perineal Care: Use ice packs and a peri bottle for relief if you have a tear or episiotomy.
For Baby:
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: This helps regulate your baby’s body temperature and strengthens your bond.
- Apgar Test: The doctor will check your baby’s health right after birth.
- Breastfeeding: If you’re nursing, your baby may latch within the first hour.
FAQs
How long does labor last?
For first-time moms, labor can last 12 to 24 hours. Subsequent labors are often shorter.
What are the signs of labor starting?
Look for regular contractions, back pain, or your water breaking.
Can I eat during labor?
In early labor, light snacks are okay. Once active labor starts, stick to clear fluids unless advised otherwise.
What if I need a C-section?
Your medical team will guide you through the process and ensure you and your baby are safe.
Final Thoughts
Labor and delivery are life-changing experiences.
It’s intense, but it’s also the moment you’ve been waiting for—the start of your baby’s life.
No matter how your journey unfolds, trust yourself, lean on your support team, and know that every contraction brings you closer to meeting your little one.
If you have questions or want to share your own labor story, drop a comment below. We’re all in this together!
