Questions About Going Into Labour

In this article, we try to answer some of the nagging questions in your mind about labour. Remember, your experience as a new mother-to-be might differ considerably, but the answers are worth knowing.

By Subodini Menon

Wednesday, May 31, 2017, 12:18 [IST]

Pregnancy is one of the most magical and cherished times in a woman's life. Of course, it is no bed of roses. Most pregnant women have their share of problems in their pregnancy. Morning sickness, bloating and mood swings to just name a few.

Pregnant ladies look forward to the moment when they can finally hold their baby and be done with the hassles of pregnancy. But for that to happen, they need to go through the harrowing experience of giving birth.

Any woman who has gone through delivery, be it a normal delivery or a C-section, can vouch for the fact that birthing was one of the most painful and stressful events that she has been through in her life. More so for a first-time mother-to-be who doesn't know what to expect.

Common Causes Of Preterm Labour During Pregnancy Common Causes Of Preterm Labour During Pregnancy

Each woman experiences pregnancy and delivery as a unique event. Therefore, it is difficult to predict what labour feels like to someone who has never experienced it. Nevertheless, a new mother-to-be will still have a lot of questions on her mind regarding the delivery.

In this article, we try to answer some of the most nagging questions in your mind about labour. Remember, your experience as a new mother-to-be might differ considerably, but these answers are worth knowing. So, read on to know more.

#1

The first and most important question would be about labour. How do you know when the labour starts? The answer is not simple and is further complicated by the occurrence of false contraction, which might mimic labour.

#2

The first thing to know is that the whole process of labour can be divided into two stages, namely, pre-labour and active labour. It is hard to pin point when each part of the labour starts, as it is very different from one woman to other.

Do You Know The 3 Stages Of Labour? Do You Know The 3 Stages Of Labour?

#3

Some women have it all happening very fast and some others have a long pre-labour, signs of which can even last for weeks. The following are some of the symptoms of pre-labour that you can look out for:

Back pain that is concentrated to the lower back. The pain may feel similar to what you feel when you are about to have your periods.

Contractions that come at regular intervals. Each contraction gets longer and stronger.

Your membranes may rupture before you feel any kind of a pain.

Brownish mucus discharge.

Loose bowels

Moodiness or feeling emotional

Disturbed sleep

When Should You Contact The Doctor?

Anytime you feel there is something wrong is a good time to call your doctor. The points above are a good indication of your imminent birthing. Other than these, if you feel that the baby is moving less or if you have problems with your eyesight, fever and headache, call your doctor immediately.

The Five First Signs Of Labour Approaching The Five First Signs Of Labour Approaching

What Are The Symptoms Which Indicate That The Labour Will Soon Begin?

Lightning is a sure indicator that the labour will soon start. Lightning is when the baby shifts its position and its head drops into the pelvis. You will feel as if your lower abdomen has suddenly become heavy.

You will find it easier to breathe and eat, but will have problems holding back your impulse to urinate. False contractions also happen to prepare your body for the real contractions.

You will have more vaginal discharge. You will suffer from mood swings and will also have an intense feeling to clean and arrange your home.

What To Do When In Early Labour?

Try to relax and calm down. Some mid-wives prescribe paracetamol to soothe early labour pain. You can take warm showers or warm baths. Go for a walk, as it can speed up the labour process.

Ways To Naturally Induce Labour After 40 Weeks Ways To Naturally Induce Labour After 40 Weeks

Do not tire yourself and take ample rests in between. Nibble on high-calorie foods like dry fruits. Try to conserve your energy. You will need it when you go into the active labour phase.

How Does Active Labour Feel Like?

Active labour is when your cervix is 4 to 5 cm dilated. You will have regular and painful contractions that are hardly two minutes apart. You will feel very hot and will likely be very anxious. You will start not caring about the surroundings.

Remember that this will pass and soon, you will have your baby in your arms. Listen to your body. Try not to waste your energy in shouting and concentrate on pushing when your doctor asks you to. Remember to breath through the pain.