The Second Stage of Labor: Signs you have Progressed

Second Stage of Labor

The second stage of labor begins when the cervix has reached 10cm and ends in the delivery of your baby.

Contractions usually occur every three to five minutes and last around 60-90 minutes.

With a vaginal delivery contractions of the uterus last longer and are more intense because they assist with bringing the baby through the vagina. You can assist this process with pushing.

It isn't unlikely that you will feel the urge to push. As the baby moves through the vagina it puts pressure on the rectal sphincter, your baby's head will stimulate nerves that gives you the instinct to want to bear down. This feeling is different for everyone some may feel its uncontrollable while others may not feel the need to bear down until later in this stage.

If you experience a strong urge to push (fetal ejection reflex)Your baby is literally ejecting themselves and the urge to push is your baby's way of telling you they are ready to come out.

In this stage you will experience the ring of fire as your baby is traveling through the vagina and vagina opening this creates a burning sensation when surpassed through the vaginal opening due to stretching. This sometimes leads to small lacerations on the vagina walls.

The second stage varies in length based on if you have any complications or other factors.

This stage can last  minutes or a few hours and can potentially be longer if you have an epidural.

If this stage surpasses the “ ideal” time - interventions may be necessary.

The following are likely signs the second stage is about to occur:

• Increase in bloody show

• Rectal pressure (bowel movement feeling)

• Uncontrollable urge to push?bear down

• Rupture of the membranes

• Grunting sounds

• You saying “the baby is coming”

If you want to know how to prep your body for labor send me a message on Instagram @vinesofmotherhood

or email me: Kayla_Sue@vinesofmotherhood.com

Xo, Kayla Sue AKA

Childbirth Educator & Pre & Postnatal Coach