Welcome to the incredible journey of childbirth! In this blog post, we will explore the active labor phase, providing you with empowering knowledge and practical guidance.
Together, let's dive deep into understanding your body and create a birth experience filled with joy and beautiful memories.
Entering the Active Labor Phase:
As your labor progresses, you will reach the active labor phase, a significant milestone on this extraordinary journey.
During this phase, your body will diligently dilate between 6 cm and 8 cm, and your contractions will become closer together, occurring roughly every 5 minutes or less.
These contractions will last longer, approaching a minute, and their intensity will be stronger.
Shifting Focus and Mood:
In active labor, a noticeable shift in your mood and demeanor may occur.
You may find yourself becoming quieter during contractions, as your focus shifts towards breathing and relaxation. Many moms enter a trance-like state, drawing into themselves during contractions and even between them. It is crucial to create a calm and quiet environment during this time, as interruptions can disrupt the labor process and hinder your progress.
Transitioning to the Birth Location:
At this stage, most families transition from their home to the designated birth location. It's common for labor to slow down slightly during this transition due to natural instincts that require a sense of safety for labor to progress. However, once you arrive at the new location and feel safe again, labor will continue as it had before.
Movement and Positioning:
Continuing to move and shift positions is important during active labor. Ideally, aim to move or change positions every 30 minutes to an hour. After each movement, you may experience a slightly more intense contraction as your body adjusts to the new position. If a position still feels uncomfortable after 5 minutes, feel free to switch again. However, try to give each new position at least 5 to 10 minutes or 1 to 2 contractions before making another change.
Staying Hydrated and Energized:
Remember to prioritize hydration and maintaining your energy levels throughout active labor. Often, laboring mothers forget to eat or drink during this stage, so it falls upon your support team, such as your partner or doula, to offer you drinks and easily digestible snacks. You may not feel hungry or have the desire to eat, but staying hydrated with drinks containing electrolytes can provide a great substitute.
The Power of Mindset:
Active labor calls for a strong mindset. It's crucial to relax and surrender your body to the process, allowing it to do what it needs to do while getting out of its way. Utilizing the comfort measures you have learned will play a significant role in keeping you in a conducive headspace for labor.
Embracing Every Moment:
As your labor progresses, each passing moment brings your baby closer to you. With every breath, you and your baby are filled with air, and every contraction brings you one step closer to meeting your little one. Remember, your labor is strong, but you are stronger. Trust in your body and believe in your ability to bring your baby into the world.
Stay tuned for our next blog post in the "What to Expect" series, where we will discuss transitional labor and pushing. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss it!
Comments