India witnesses the birth of 25 million children each year. It accounts for nearly one-fifth of the world’s annual deliveries, according to an article by UNICEF. Yet most women are unaware of what happens to the body even if it’s not their first pregnancy. Labour in itself is mysterious in many ways. Multiple hormones like oxytocin and prostaglandins are released. You start facing contractions with bloody mucus discharge. The water breaks too.
In short, countless physical changes take place. It is overwhelming for new or young mothers. Labour is mostly a matter of a few hours. Having a clear knowledge of what to expect at each stage can prepare you better. Have a look.
First Stage
This consists of early labour, active labour and transition. The contractions are mild and are usually 20 minutes apart. The cervix begins to thin and dilate up to 4 centimetres. You must continue to rest, change positions, relax and eat light meals. Mothers-to-be are most likely to be comfortable at the early phase.
Slowly the cramps begin to grow stronger and the frequency increases. This is when you are entering active labour. The mother will want to be in the top hospital in Delhi NCR now. The cervix starts to dilate from 6-10 centimetres. Increasing pressure at the back, nausea and legs trembling are common. Slow breathing and sitting upright can help.
The last phase is transitional where the cervix dilates up from 7-10 centimetres. The contractions come every 2-3 minutes and last for up to 90 seconds. Find a relaxing position in the delivery room and sip water. This stage does not last more than an hour. The birth canal is formed at the end which is a single passage of the womb, cervix and vagina.
Second Stage
This is when you have to start pushing. This stage can last for hours depending on the mother’s position, baby’s position and the medications being used. The contractions can help the child pass down into the pelvis via the birth canal. The head starts to emerge from the vaginal opening. This is called crowning. You might feel a burning sensation. But doctors at the top hospital in Delhi NCR administer an episiotomy to help you relax. The stage ends once the baby is out of the womb.
Third Stage
This is called the ‘afterbirth’. You can experience a few more contractions to expel the placenta. It can happen an hour or so after birth. This is the easiest and the least painful of all the stages. Any remaining birthing materials are also pushed out. Medications are given to reduce bleeding. The umbilical cord is also clamped and cut at this point.
Fourth Stage
Now begins your postpartum period. Oxytocin is released and your body enters recovery mode. Rest and relax to get over the birthing stress. You can take a hot shower and sleep off for some time while the baby gets cleaned and examined. Mothers are encouraged to breastfeed the baby and keep them skin-to-skin. Be sure to ask for any help, if required.
Labour and delivery are the most intense work your body will ever do. But the reward it yields is simply unmatched. Consult your doctor for other preparation tips for optimal results.
