No one can predict the duration of your labor, or how easy or challenging it will be! However, the following information will help you understand what will happen during the process, so you know what to expect along the way.
The first stage of labor is divided into three phases: early, active, and transition. It officially begins with the onset of active labor and ends when the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters.
| WHAT IT FEELS LIKE | WHAT YOU CAN DO | WHAT YOUR SUPPORT PERSON CAN DO |
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| WHAT IT FEELS LIKE | WHAT YOU CAN DO | WHAT YOUR SUPPORT PERSON CAN DO |
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| WHAT IT FEELS LIKE | WHAT YOU CAN DO | WHAT YOUR SUPPORT PERSON CAN DO |
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The cervix is completely dilated. Now is the time you may begin to push. Pushing is the light at the end of the tunnel, but there is still hard work to be done.
| WHAT IT FEELS LIKE | WHAT YOU CAN DO | WHAT YOUR SUPPORT PERSON CAN DO |
Note: Pushing may help to relieve the intense contraction pain |
Note: Don't let embarrassment break your pushing rhythm - voiding/stooling while pushing means you are pushing correctly! |
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This stage may take from 5 to 30 minutes and goes from the delivery of your baby to the delivery of the placenta. Based on your provider and situation, you may have delayed cord clamping. During this time, your healthcare provider may begin to repair any tears with sutures.
This two-hour timeframe is for skin-to-skin and first bonding with your baby, so visitors should be limited. Your nurse will communicate additional goals/activities for the recovery period (ex. frequent assessment, fundal massage for you, etc.) To help stabilize your baby's temperature and maximize initial breastfeeding, we encourage a minimum of eight hours before your newborn receives his or her first bath.
Screenings, labs, tests, and vaccinations
Warning signs and complications
Labor: What to expect
Find a provider for your baby
FHN Memorial Hospital
1045 West Stephenson Street
Freeport, IL 61032
815-599-6221