A QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

What is Labor ?

Labor is the work that your body does to allow your baby to be born . Labor is made up of three stages ( first , second and third ), described on the back .

Your Body Changes

Your baby has grown inside of your uterus ( the red outline ), and your cervix is the opening of the uterus . During pregnancy , the cervix is long and closed to keep your baby inside . Toward the end of pregnancy and during labor , hormones and contractions cause the cervix to shorten or thin ( called effacement ) and open ( called dilation ).

Effacement & Dilation

Effacement is measured as a percentage , with 0 indicating a cervix that is still long , and 100 % being completely thinned out . Dilation is measured in centimeters , from 0 ( completely closed ) to 10 centimeters , also called “ complete ” or completely dilated . During a cervical exam , your care provider will evaluate the cervix for these changes , as well as determining the station , or position of the baby ’ s head compared to your pelvis .

0 % effaced 1 cm dilated

cervix

100 % effaced 4 cm dilated

When Will Labor Begin ?

It is impossible to predict exactly when labor will start , but most babies are born between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy . Recent research shows that babies do a lot of developing and growing in the final weeks , and if there are no medical concerns , it is best to let labor begin on its own .

Pre-labor vs . Early Labor

Pre-labor contractions ( also called Braxton Hicks or “ false ” labor ) may occur in the days and weeks leading up to labor . Pre-labor contractions can be noticeable , but usually do not cause significant pain or change the cervix . Pre-labor contractions generally :

• Vary in how often or how long they last , although they can be regular / consistent at times .

• Do not get closer , stronger or longer over time .

• Slow down or stop with a change in activity , such as resting , eating or drinking .

• Are felt as a tightening primarily in the front or on just one part of the belly .

In contrast , early labor contractions ( which lead to cervical change and ultimately to birth ) typically :

• Become regular and predictable .

• Get steadily closer , stronger and longer .

• Do not stop or space out with resting , eating or drinking , but may get stronger with walking or moving .

• Are often felt in the front and back .

It can be difficult at times to tell the difference between pre-labor and early labor , so once you are past 37 weeks , it is wise to try not to focus on your contractions . Instead , simply go about your normal routine for as long as you can . If it is true labor , your body will let you know . Try going for a walk or sitting on an exercise ball to help move labor along . Take a bath or shower , or rest to save your energy for later .

This information should not be construed as medical advice , nor is it intended to replace the individual care of a health care professional .

Timing Contractions

Contractions are the rhythmic tightening of t uterus that can feel like a hardening of the b As labor intensifies , contractions get stronge it becomes easier to feel the build up , peak a relaxation of each one . This is an example of time your contractions :

How long / duration ( start to finish ) = 1 minute

How far apart / frequency ( start to start ) = 3 mi

Discuss preferences with your care provider , who may a to be in contact when contractions get to 5-1-1 : 5 minu lasting 1 minute and they have been consistent for 1

Warning Signs

If you experience any of the following sympt contact your care provider right away .

• Persistent vomiting , fever or flu-like sympt

• Vaginal bleeding ( blood-tinged mucus in la normal ), itching or foul-smelling discharge

• A gush of fluid or continuously leaking flui indicating your membranes have ruptured ( increased discharge is normal ).

• Severe or persistent headaches .

• Persistent blurred vision or dizziness .

• Sudden , severe swelling of face and hands

• Four or more contractions in one hour bef weeks of pregnancy .

• Burning while urinating or difficulty urinati

• Severe , sharp or persistent abdominal pain

• Noticeable decrease in baby ’ s movement .

• Pain , swelling or redness in leg ( s ).

For information about Prepare The Nest , please v preparethenest . com .

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