What to Expect During Your First Childbirth?

First Stage

This stage consists of early labour, active labour and transition.

During Early Labour

• Early labour is the longest part of labour and can last 12 to 24 hours or longer if this is your first baby.

• You will begin to experience contractions that can last up to 60 seconds and can be 3 to 5 minutes apart.

• As the labour progresses, the contractions increase in frequency and in strength.

• At this time, your cervix will start to dilate (open) and will reach 6 centimeters by the end of this phase.

During Active labour

Active labour lasts for 4 to 8 hours for many people giving birth for the first time. During this phase, contractions are stronger, longer, and closer together, and they can last up to 60 to 90 seconds with approximately 2 to 5 minutes apart. Cervix dilates more rapidly as compared to in early labour and it is almost 6 to 8 centimeters.

During Transition

This is usually the shortest part of the first stage of labour. Your contractions are the strongest, longest and closest together, and can last 60 to 120 seconds and are usually 2 to 3 minutes apart. Your cervix will dilate from 8 to 10 centimeters and once you reach 10 centimeters, the second stage will begin.

Advanced Stages of Labour

Next, you will experience the advanced stage of labour. Here, the contractions will get quite intense and long. The dilation will also proceed and reach up to 8 cm. This stage will last for about 6 hours if this is your first childbirth. The time may vary from woman to woman.

Transition stage

Here, your intense contractions will become longer and last for up to 120 seconds. This phase will last till your dilation reaches 10 cm. The transition stage is the shortest stage of childbirth.

Second Stage

This stage includes pushing and birth. By now, your cervix has fully dilated to 10 centimeters and you may feel pressure and the urge to push. Your doctor or midwife will let you know when to start pushing. On an average, this stage can last 1 ½ to 2 hours with your first baby. You only push when you are having a contraction and you can rest in between.

Third and Fourth Stages

This is the stage after delivery. You may experience chills or shakiness during this time as your placenta is delivered. This stage can take up to 30 minutes and once the placenta is delivered, you enter the fourth stage of labour during which your uterus returns to its original size. Many people feel light cramping during this period.

Tips to Have A Smooth Delivery

● Walking, changing positions, slow or rhythmic breathing during contractions

● Pain medication is available

● Do not object to a C-Section, if required

Conclusion

The experience of your first childbirth, though a bit painful, will always remain one of the most beautiful and cherished memories. If you are enjoying your first pregnancy and are about to deliver, remember all the points mentioned above and get prepare yourself for childbirth.

Sources: Mayo Clinic, Cedars Sinai

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on October 18, 2022