Introduction to the 3 Stages of Labour

Labour is the last stage of pregnancy and precedes delivery. The fears associated with labour are mainly due to the misconceptions, so be informed and have a healthy labour.It has been a long wait for 9 months when you wanted to see your little bundle of joy. As you are nearing the moment to give birth, labour seems to be the most productive and greatest work in your whole phase of pregnancy.It is the time you start fearing the unknown. Thus, it is always a better option to start understanding the 3 stages of labour to become better informed and more confident.Here is an introduction to the 3 stages of labour for your better understanding: In this article1st Stage of LabourTransitional Stage of Labour3rd Stage of Labour1st Stage of LabourThis begins with the opening of the cervix. This at times is signalled by falling of the mucus plug near the cervix to prepare for labour. This appears pinkish in colour and has a jelly like texture. This may be followed by water breaking, even though this might have already happened earlier.This is the time when contractions begin and appropriate timing is highly essential now. Most women tend to get panicky at this juncture, fearing they will not be able to deal with the pain. Relaxation techniques can be highly effective in such cases. If necessary, the doctor may also prescribe medications to reduce pain. Contractions tend to get stronger when women reach the next stage of labour.Transitional Stage of LabourThis is the second stage of labour when women start pushing the baby out. Doctors may suggest different pain relief measures to ease pain resulting from contractions at this time.As the baby is being pushed down the birth canal, the pushes must be timed to get maximum effect. Sometimes it requires several pushes to let the head out of the baby. Sometimes episiotomy is suggested to prevent tearing of the vagina.For those delivering for the first time, the whole process may take around an hour. Those who are experienced and have given birth before may complete the process in less than 10 minutes.Once the baby is born, she shall be examined by the team of medical professionals. After wiping and wrapping her with towel, she shall be shown to the mother waiting in anticipation. This marks the beginning of the 3rd stage of labour.3rd Stage of LabourIn this stage the placenta shall come out of the uterus wall. While some may find it easier to push out the placenta, others may want an injection to get the placenta moved. Once it has been delivered, it shall be checked by the attending doctors or the midwife to make sure it has been delivered well. Now the doctor shall check the tummy to ensure the contractions have stopped and there is no further bleeding from the placenta.So, if you had those frightful scenes of a labour room from movies going round in your head, these are the 3 simple stages that you need to overcome.If you still have any doubts and fears in your mind, you must always get them cleared from your doctor. You may also discuss the possible fears in your mind with your partner. Both of you can work together as you shall feel a lot better with support and encouragements from him. Pregnancy is indeed one of the most beautiful phases in your life that must be enjoyed thoroughly. Do not let in the fears spoil the best moments of your life.Visit the regular check up sessions in course of pregnancy to see the status of your babys development and progress in pregnancy. This shall ensure you are completely safe and enjoying a healthy pregnancy.What happens during labour? How to ease pains associated with labour? What happens in the last stage of labour? Discuss here.