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Labor and Delivery 101

Labor and Delivery

Just like every pregnancy is different, each labor and delivery will also be unique. While you may have a birth plan or certain expectations for your labor experience, it is important for your health and your baby’s to adapt to any unforeseen circumstances that arise in labor. This post is a general overview of how a “normal” labor and delivery would flow.

During the early phases of labor, your body will begin changing to prepare for the birth. Some of these physical changes include:

  • Lightening, when your baby settles into your pelvic area
  • Mild, irregular contractions
  • Thinning (effacement) and opening (dilation) of your cervix

Contact your provider if your contractions are coming at regular intervals for 30-60 seconds each time, your water has broken, or you have blood or mucous in your discharge. Your provider will ask some questions and let you know if/when you should head to the hospital.

Once you are in active labor (when your cervix is dilated 4 cm or beyond), your contractions will be more intense and more frequent. You can help reduce the pain by incorporating some breathing techniques and/or pain medication. The contractions are your body’s way of helping push the baby through the birth canal. During this time, your doctor and nurse(s) will make you as comfortable as possible and provide guidance about when to push. After the baby has been delivered, you still have another job – to deliver the placenta.

Again, this post is an overview of labor and delivery. Be sure to discuss what to expect, your pain management plan, and who will be your support person (or people) during the delivery with your provider. Visit our Labor & Delivery page for more specifics, potential complications, and delivery options. Contact your Capital Women’s Care provider should you have any questions or concerns.