Its always a good idea for first time mothers-to-be to be educated about probable steps to take while preparing towards delivery day. Precisely what to do and what to expect at every stages of pregnancy. The article below reveals it all. Please read through:
Think of this as your childbirth manual, a step-by-step guide to prepare you for what lies ahead. We’ve divided the process into stages to describe the typical changes that occur as labor progresses. The first stage encompasses the very beginning of labor, when contractions begin, all the way 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 and into the world. Finally, there’s the third stage, when all of your hard work is done and your body begins to recover. You will most likely move from one stage to another fairly seamlessly. Although every labor and childbirth is unique yours will unfold in its own way the process is remarkably constant. Trust that your body will know just what to do.
STAGE ONE Prodomal LaborWhat’s Happening
- The cervix begins to soften, thin and move forward, and it may begin to open. The baby settles into the pelvis.
- At this point of childbirth, contractions may be noticeable as an achy sensation or as pressure in the lower abdomen or back. Contractions in this phase are usually irregular starting and stopping; sometimes strong, sometimes 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, and rest or take a walk.
- Surround yourself with people that help you feel comfortable and safe. Your support team can keep you company and provide reassurance.
Early Labor (Latent Phase)What’s Happening
- The cervix continues to thin out and open, dilating to 3 or 4 centimeters.
- Labor is meant to be gradual, so this phase may take quite a while usually about two-thirds of the total labor time. Over a period of several hours, contractions will become longer, stronger and more regular (about 5 minutes apart, each one lasting 25 to 45 seconds).
- A pinkish vaginal discharge (called show ) usually increases as labor progresses.
What Helps
It can be hard to believe that this is it. Take time to settle down and work with the labor.
Once again, the best thing to do is to take care of yourself. Alternate rest and activity (for instance, take a nice walk followed by a relaxing shower), eat easily digested foods and drink plenty of fluids.
Many women find that the best place to be during this phase of childbirth is at home, where you can move about and do things for yourself.
When contractions become so strong that you can no longer talk yourself through them, try using relaxation and breathing strategies. Your support people should be nearby, helping you to stay calm and confident.
Keep the environment pleasant perhaps listen to music, ask your partner for a shoulder massage or prepare the baby’s room.
To read more and learn more about preparing for the delivery day and what to prepare , check it out from the article source below :
Source : Judith Lothian
Photo Source : Kala Bernier
