Lamaze Magazine 2009

Celebration Birth Labor Day Your step-by-step guide to the process of childbirth. his is your step-by-step guide to labor. We’ve divided the process into stages, each describing the typical changes that occur as labor progresses. The first stage encompasses the beginning of labor, when contractions start, through active labor, when your cervix is almost fully dilated. The second stage covers transition, when your body shifts from dilating to pushing, and the movement of your baby through the birth canal. Finally, the third stage is when your body begins to recover. You will most likely move from one stage to another fairly seamlessly. although every labor and birth is unique, the process is remarkably constant. Trust that your body will know exactly what to do. T Early Labor (Latent Phase) WHaT’S HaPPeNING | The cervix continues to thin out and open, dilating to 3 or 4 centimeters. | labor is gradual, so this phase may take quite a while – usually about two-thirds of the total labor time. over several hours, contractions will become longer, stronger and more regular (about 5 minutes apart, each lasting 25 to 45 seconds). | a pinkish vaginal discharge (called “show”) increases as labor progresses. WHaT HelPS | It can be hard to believe that this is “it.” Settle down and work with the labor. | alternate rest and activity (a walk followed by a shower), eat easily digested foods and drink plenty of fluids. | Many women find that the best place to be is at home, where you can move about and do things for yourself. | When contractions become so strong that you can’t talk yourself through them, try using relaxation and breathing strategies. Your support team should be nearby to help you stay calm and confident. | Keep the environment pleasant – perhaps listen to music, prepare the baby’s room or ask your partner for a massage. Active Labor WHaT’S HaPPeNING | Contractions become longer and stronger, until they’re about 3 minutes apart and last for about a minute. | During this phase, which generally takes from 2 to 6 hours, the cervix effaces and dilates to about 8 centimeters. | Women in active labor usually get very focused as the hard work begins. WHaT HelPS | Now labor has real momentum. listen to your body and develop a rhythm with it. | Do something active during contractions, First Stage Prodomal Labor WHaT’S HaPPeNING | The cervix begins to soften, thin and move forward, and it may begin to open. The baby settles into the pelvis. | Contractions may be noticeable as an achy sensation or pressure in the lower abdomen or back. Contractions in this phase are usually irregular – starting and stopping, strong or mild. This is your body’s natural way of gearing up. | This phase can last from a few hours to a few days. WHaT HelPS | Don’t worry whether or not this is really labor. For the vast majority, labor eventually makes itself very clear. | Try to be patient and have confidence that your body is doing exactly what it needs to do. | Take good care of yourself. eat, drink plenty of fluids, rest, or take a walk. | Surround yourself with people who help you feel comfortable and safe. Your support team can keep you company and provide reassurance. FirST STAgE: The cervix is effacing but not dilated, as the baby settles into the pelvis (top); then he rotates and makes his way down through the birth canal (bottom). lamaze maGazINe 2009 12 lamaze.orG illustration: karen kuchar http://www.lamaze.org

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Lamaze Magazine 2009

Lamaze Magazine 2009 Contents Essential Lamaze for Pregnancy Making Connections Body Beautiful Birth Day, Your Way Mother Knows Best Essential Lamaze for Birth Supporting Cast Labor Day Position Statement Comfort Zone Intervention Intelligence The Waiting Game Essential Lamaze for Parenting Nursing School Reality Check Sleep Tight Unforgettable

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