When Is Labour Actually Coming On?
Ready to know when your body starts to shout “I’m on the way” in its own quiet way? Let’s break it down in plain, everyday terms.
Common Early Telltales
- Tiny Contractions – It’s like a gentle tug‑as‑you‑feel‑the‑beat. They may start faint, but they get stronger and stickier over time.
- Vaginal Discharge Changes – Look for a brownish or pinkish mucus that feels a bit like skin peeling away. That’s the body’s way of saying “the seal’s off.”
- Water Break – If you notice a steady trickle of watery feel behind your legs, that’s a clue your amniotic sac might have popped. Don’t worry if it was just a restroom mishap—best to confirm in the ward.
Get a Head Start on Packing
No one likes being caught mid‑rush, so pack hard—make sure you and your partner are ready to roll to the hospital without a hitch. Put those essentials in a bag now, not later.
When Doctors Decide Labor Should Kick Off Early
Sometimes the baby’s not getting the snack (weight) it needs before the due date. That’s where the OB‑doctors step in—handing over a little prostaglandin pill to start those contractions on demand.
In short, keep your ears open for the subtle signals of the body, gear up early, and trust that your team will manage any surprises with smooth hands. You’re on your way—baby, we’re counting down!
How to prepare for childbirth
Labour Journey: 3 Acts of the Mothering Play
Act 1 – The “First Time” Prelude
- Contractions kick off like drumbeats that grow louder and more regular as your cervix stretches.
- Every 2–3 minutes you’ll feel a new pulse – durable, but totally worth it.
- Your midwife will pop in for quick vaginal checks to keep a running chart of exactly how wide you’re opening (up to 10 cm).
- If you’re not on an epidural, ask for a friendly little “pain‑relief” boost. (See section 2 for the full armory.)
Act 2 – The Grand Push
- When the cervix is fully dilated, the push begins – think of it as a final act where you’re the star.
- Midwife will cue you to bear down with each contraction; use the breath, not the force.
- Blood‑out, gas‑in, take a breath and keep the energy down – tiny meals are your fuel, not a snack attack.
- Don’t gasp shallowly. Use deep diaphragmatic breaths (the “belly‑deep” inhaler) to keep the oxygen flow steady.
- Practice! Antenatal classes teach these breathing moves; they’re like secret choreography for a smoother performance.
Act 3 – The Oops, No Pain Finale
- After the baby raises the curtain, the placenta pops out—painless, almost like a popcorn pop.
- This extra bit takes only a few minutes, so you can breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate.
Typical Timing – The Variations
- For a first‑time performer: usually 6–12 hours of hard work.
- Repeat acts can be as quick as 2 or as long as 8 hours.
- Remember: every birth is a private show—size and position of the little star, your pelvis size, contraction strength, and a few other plot twists can change how long the stage lasts.
Bottom line? Each woman’s labour story has its own rhythm and flair. Enjoy the journey, partner… and maybe bring a snack that’s easy to chew!
Pain relief during labour
Facing Labor Pain? Grab This Toolkit!
Non‑Medical Ways to Keep the Pain at Bay
- Learn how to relax—tension spikes pain.
- Practice breathing: deep inhale, slow exhale.
- Let your partner massage sore spots or slap a warm pack on them.
- Move around, change positions—walk, sit, lean on something solid.
- Aromatherapy: inhale lavender or geranium to chill, orange to lift your mood.
- Stay hydrated: sip water regularly, snack a little if you’re hungry.
Medical Pain‑Relief Options (Ask for the One that Fits You)
- Pethidine injection into the thigh—works nicely for fast labs, lasts 2–4 hours.
- Entonox (laughing gas)—inhaled via a mouthpiece, easy to control but fades fast; can leave you drowsy or nauseous.
- Epidural anesthesia—local anesthetic in the lower back, numbs the area. Knowing your pelvic floor (Pilates help!) lets you still feel the push.
During Delivery – Keep the Air Flowing
- Request an oxygen mask to deepen breathing and ensure your baby gets plenty of oxygen—helps avoid distress if labor stalls.
Bottom Line
Choosing pain relief is your personal decision. Pick what’s right for you and discuss it with your team.
Methods of delivering a baby
Choosing Your Birth Method: A Personal Journey
Spontaneous Natural Delivery
When you’re ready to push, most moments start naturally. That’s when your body takes the reins and the baby comes out with every breath and effort.
Assisted Deliveries
- Forceps: Think of it as a pair of gentle clamps that help the baby slide out when a quick release is needed.
- Vacuum Extraction: A cup‑like device gently pulls the baby if the push stalls. It’s both quick and usually least invasive.
These tools are handy when the baby is stuck but the mother can’t push it all the way. The obstetrician steps in to finish the job smoothly.
C‑Section: When It’s the Best Choice
- Emergency C‑Section: If the baby shows distress during labour, a rapid “break‑through” surgery is performed – the quickest way to rescue the little one.
- Elective C‑Section: Some parents prefer it to avoid labour entirely, or if medical history dictates a safer surgical route.
It’s a good option when the path to the delivery room isn’t clear or when you just want a little more control.
Being Mentally Ready
The plan you sketch out isn’t set in stone. Be prepared for changes – both expected and unexpected ones – during labour. Remember: the ultimate goal is a safe delivery for you and your baby.
References
1. Giving Birth – The Signs and Stages of Labour (Retrieved December 18, 2017)
2. Johnson Memorial Health – 5 Different Types of Childbirth and Delivery Methods (Retrieved December 18, 2017)
3. Melissa Tan – Pain Relief for Labour: What Are Your Options? (Retrieved December 18, 2017)
4. The Importance of Oxygen for Mom and Baby during Birth (Retrieved December 18, 2017)
Article reviewed by Dr. Cindy Pang, obstetrician & gynaecologist at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital.
