Normal labour begins between weeks 37 and 42 of pregnancy. The first stage of labour is divided into two parts: the latent and the active phase. This is followed by the second stage – the pushing stage. The third stage is the birth of the placenta, and the fourth stage is the early postpartum period (approx. 3 hours after birth).
If your waters don’t clearly break, there’s always some doubt about when to “rush” to the maternity hospital. For those who choose a home birth, it may be a little easier, as they can stay in touch with their chosen midwife.
What happens in the early stage of labour?
– hormonal changes take place that prepare your body for labour and breastfeeding
– you’ll usually pass softer stools (“the body gives itself an enema”)
– the cervix begins to open
– it’s the longest stage of labour, lasting more than half of the total labour time
– contractions build from irregular, mild contractions; they may last 30–45 seconds every 5 minutes, then become longer, stronger, and more frequent
– the latent phase of labour can start several times before the active phase begins – so it can last from a few hours to a few days
– the baby moves lower into the pelvis
DID YOU KNOW?
The average length of labour is 6–12 hours for first-time mothers (for women who have given birth before, labour is usually faster). It can last 24 hours or longer and still be completely normal.
Benefits of staying at home longer when labour begins?
– More flexibility to move around, which reduces the likelihood of medical interventions.
– Helps increase the labour hormone oxytocin, which supports the cervix opening and thinning.
How can your partner (or birth companion) help you?
– looks after your comfort and supports you emotionally
– tracks contractions (how often they come, how long they last…)
– distracts you with simple activities, such as board games
Comfort is important!
– rest and relax
– eat and drink what feels right for you
– go for a short walk
– change positions and find one that suits you
– focus on breathing, keeping it calm and slow
– use warm/cold compresses on your lower back to ease pain
– read a book that helps you relax or watch a film you like
– ask your partner (or someone else who’s with you at this stage) to massage you, if that feels good
The 4-1-1 rule for leaving home.
– contractions should be 4 minutes apart, last 1 minute, and continue like this for 1 hour. This is the active phase of labour.
Despite everything listed above, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. If you don’t feel safe at home, if you can’t feel your baby well, if you’re bleeding, or if you have any other concerns, go to the maternity hospital sooner!
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