The Different Phases Of Pregnancy Labor

Pregnancy labor is sub divided into three phases - stage one, stage two and stage three. If you and your partner have not enrolled into any kind of parental classes, then you must do so immediately. These classes are very helpful in preparing you for labor and delivery. The classes are extremely popular and are filled up very fast. Hardly any couple would want to face the delivery experience without any kind of preparation. You must do your homework thoroughly and read exhaustively to be prepared of the situation before hand.

Stages Of Pregnancy Labor

The stage one of pregnancy labor is divided into three steps - early labor, active labor and the transition period. The total process of labor process is long, the average duration being 12-20 hours. The average duration for the first pregnancy labor is more but the duration shortens with succeeding pregnancies. Nevertheless, this is no consolation at all. The early labor stage is the longest part of pregnancy labor, and can last anywhere between a few hours to a few days. The stage starts with real contractions that intensify as the cervix dilates. You might also experience minor spotting of blood. The active labor stage is shorter and lasts for about three to four hours. The contractions intensify as the cervix dilates and the "water" breaks. You must immediately call the doctor and head for the hospital. The transition phase lasts for a few hours and you may experience excruciating pain as your cervix dilates fully. The pregnancy labor delivery nurse might administer pain medication at this stage. Make sure you do not push as this will only delay the whole process and increase your pain. In stage two of pregnancy labor, the pain becomes more intense. This is a short phase and you will be asked to push. In stage three, the contractions continue for half an hour more and then the moment of happiness arrives as your bundle of joy 'land' on Planet Earth.

There are various kinds of births. The most common kinds are vaginal birth with medication; vaginal birth without medication; and cesarean birth. In vaginal birth without medication, the childbirth happens naturally. Instead of pain medication, natural methods like breathing techniques and relaxation are used. In vaginal birth with medication, medicines are given in order to help pregnant woman deal with the intense pain and preserve her energy for the residual stages of labor. Most women find that they have used up too much of their energy in dealing with the excruciating pain and as a result, they lose their energy for the later more difficult stages of the labor process. Two most common medications that are used to ease pain are nitrous oxide gas and epidural anesthesia.

Caesarean Birth is a surgical method that is used for childbirth when there are difficulties with the vaginal birthing method. For a caesarean birth, the doctor requires to inset a cut in the lower skin and uterus in order to deliver the baby. Since it is a surgery, the recovery time is longer as compared to vaginal birth either with or without medication. Both you and your partner need to discuss at length and decide what kind of birth you would want. In all cases, pregnancy labor is inevitable.