Stages of labour - Fact Sheets

• Early stage

• First stage Middle phase

Early stage - 0-4cm dilation

• contractions which feel like period cramps (they may be irregular and more than five minutes apart)

• ruptured membranes- there may be a gush of amniotic fluid or you may lose a little fluid every now and then

• a show (mucous discharge, which may be bloodstained)

• loose bowel motions

• back pain

• if its night time try to rest or sleep

• during the day go for a walk or carry on with gentle activities

• eat light meals

• drink plenty of fluid

• talk to a supportive friend or family member

• notify support people

• check arrangements for childcare.

• it's important to save your energy for the more active stages of labour

• it may be comforting to have some company

• discuss your wishes regarding such things as pain relief with your support people

• you can ring the hospital at any hour if you are uncertain of what to do or if you feel anxious

• try to stay calm- this is just the beginning.

• be available to give support by phone or in person

• help with the last minute arrangements

• understand and accept the wishes of the woman you're supporting

• stay calm.

First stage Middle phase - 4- 8cm dilation

• contractions are more regular (3-5 minutes apart) and last longer

• contractions become more painful

• it may become increasingly difficult to keep comfortable

• you may need to concentrate during contractions

• back pain may continue to be a problem

• you may want to discuss having some pain relief

• you may have a show of blood and mucus or the membranes may rupture now or later in the first stage, if they haven't done so already.

• continue to drink plenty of fluid (water or juice)

• suck on sweets to keep up your energy

• vary your position to keep as comfortable as possible (standing, kneeling, lying, down, straddling a chair, all fours)

• have a bath or hot shower

• ask for a back rub or massage

• do whatever feels right- rock, sing, meditate, groan, swear.

• take one contraction at a time. Rest between contractions

• if you don't want to be touched, say so

• express your feelings as you wish. There's no right way to do this

• your needs may change as labour progresses

• try out all your relaxation techniques.

• help settle in to the labour room

• take your cues from the woman in labour. Her needs will changes as time goes by

• go with the flow. A woman in labour is in a different space

• keep calm

• remember you may need to eat and have a break occasionally.