The First Stage of Labor: The Process and Signs to Look for
The First Stage of Labor
The questions that arise when it comes to labor are endless. The natural instinct is to go to the hospital immediately when contractions of any kind start. Imagine if instead of rushing to the hospital you are intuned with your body and everything it’s going through. Let’s discuss the first stage of labor and what signs to look out for.
A good indication that the first stage of labor has begun- contractions that become more regular, frequent and intense.
Let me just break it down for you what actually happens during the first stage of labor-
Contractions = tightening of the uterus, which causes the cervix to dilate and assist with moving the baby through the birth canal.
Your cervix will begin to efface and dilate without contractions, but the first stage is completed when the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters. Keep in mind that the first stage is usually the longest potentially lasting days or hours.
The texture of your cervix will feel like the tip of your nose to start out, and when you are fully dilated it will be thin like the texture of your lips.
Other early signs of labor include:
Release of the mucous plug (bloody show)
Rupture of the amniotic sac (water breaking)
Lower back pain
Menstrual cramp like pain
Bowel urgency or loose bowels
If your water does break take note of this TACO acronym:
T: ime of your water breaking
A:mount of fluid
C:olor of fluid
O:dor of fluid
Characteristics of early labor:
You most likely will be able to talk through these contractions.
Another good tell is that if you are in early labor, you will mostly be able to get through a contraction without utilizing comfort techniques.
You may still be able to complete tasks, such as calling people or taking care of your house.
Rest and be patient! If you go to the hospital too soon, it can lead to exhaustion and potential interventions that may not be necessary. This is your chance to eat a meal that is going to nourish you and prioritize your hydration levels so you can have the extra energy you need to get through labor and delivery. You have no idea how long you will be in labor so it is a good idea to ensure you are prioritizing your own energy intake.
Some foods that are easy to digest in labor:
Eggs
Rice
Toast
Fruit
Smoothie
Yogurt
A honey stick will also give you that extra pick me up
How your support system/team can help you in the first stage
Be positive and use words of encouragement like “ you are doing amazing relaxing during your contractions “.
Visual checks for signs of tensions in the face, shoulder, jaw.
Offer her food or drink unless your healthcare provider ordered otherwise
Encourage you to rest or sleep if you can.
If you can’t sleep, put on a favorite show that encourages you to relax and not stress about being in labor.
If you are already at the hospital you can ask the nurse to turn down the volume on the electric fetal monitor if it’s being used.
Suggests some deep breathing of relaxation exercises if she is struggling with anxiety or fear or tension.
Let's get you feeling confident during pregnancy and prepped for labor! Message me on instagram @vinesofmotherhood or email me at Kayla_Sue@vinesofmotherhood.com .
