Thea Clayhill
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Jul 20, 2023 · Learn what labor pain feels like, how it changes throughout the stages of labor, and how to cope with it. Find out about pain management options, such as medications, natural methods, and support systems.
Jun 3, 2022 · Labour pain is a sign that your body is working towards delivering your baby. It is different to any other pain you’ve had in your lifetime. It’s not like breaking your leg and it’s not like a constant pain. It starts with mild, regular contractions.
- Your baby “drops” If you’re a first-time mom your baby will typically start to drop, or descend into your pelvis, a few weeks before labor begins (usually around two to four weeks before, but it can vary).
- Your cervix dilates. Your cervix, too, is starting to prepare for birth: It starts to dilate (open) and efface (thin out) in the days or weeks before you deliver.
- You feel more cramps and increased back pain. Especially if this is not your first pregnancy, you may feel some crampiness and pain in your lower back and groin as labor nears.
- Your joints feel looser. Throughout your pregnancy, the hormone relaxin has made your ligaments loosen up a little (it’s also responsible for your potential bouts of clumsiness this past trimester).
- Karen Miles
- Lightening. If this is your first pregnancy, you may feel what's known as lightening a few weeks before labor starts. Lightening means your baby has "dropped" and now rests lower in your pelvis.
- Loss of the mucus plug. If your cervix begins to efface or dilate significantly as you get close to labor, you may pass your mucus plug – the small amount of thickened mucus that has collected within your cervical canal during your pregnancy.
- Bloody show. You may have noticed more vaginal discharge during pregnancy, thanks to your body's increased estrogen. Normal, healthy discharge is usually creamy white or clear, but it may also be tinged brown, pink, or red.
- Cervical dilation and effacement. In the days and weeks before delivery, changes in the connective tissue of your cervix make it soften and lead to dilation and effacement.
Learn about the different types of pain relief options for childbirth, such as analgesics, local anesthesia and regional anesthesia. Find out the risks and benefits of each option and how to discuss them with your provider before labor.
Jul 23, 2024 · Learn about the common signs of labor, such as cervical changes, vaginal discharge, nesting, lightening and water breaking. Find out how to tell the difference between false labor and true labor contractions and when to seek medical attention.
Learn about the different types of pain relief methods for labor, such as epidural, spinal block, analgesics, and nitrous oxide. Find out how to prepare for childbirth, cope with labor pain, and ensure your safety and your baby's.
