Early Labor
Early labour is the initial phase that can last hours, days or even weeks, in the case of prodromal labour. This early stage of labor can be difficult for a first-time mom to detect. It is characterized by excitement and for some women, the nesting instinct kicks in and you feel the urge to clean and prepare your surroundings for the new baby. In this phase it’s important to stay active. Try not to dwell on each contraction and refrain from even timing them if they are easily ignored and do not interfere with your daily routine. Simply acknowledge them and move on with your typical activities. One of the best tips for natural childbirth in a hospital is to stay home as long as possible.
Early labor is usually the most fun and exciting. You may wonder if this is really “it”. Other women sleep through these light contractions or go about their day without really noticing a difference.
WHAT & HOW YOU MAY FEEL
Manageable Contractions
Low Backache
Loose Stools
Bloody show or increased mucus discharge (mucus plug)
Lightening (the baby dropping into position)
BEHAVIOR & ATTITUDE
Excitement
Energy
Anticipation
Nervousness
OTHER SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Nesting Instinct
Increased Energy
Restlessness
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
You really probably won’t need to pull many tricks out of your bag at this stage of early labour. The best advice is to ignore the contractions as long as you can. Just conduct business as usual. The principle of a “watched pot never boils” applies here. The more attention you draw to the process, the more anxious you can become if it doesn’t seem to move as quickly as you’d expected.
General tips include regular breathing and activity as tolerated. You might want to take a nap or have something light to eat. You most likely want to avoid getting into a birthing tub at this point since full immersion can lower the oxytocin levels in your body and slow your birthing which is not desirable at this stage.
WHAT YOU MIGHT DO
Take a Walk
Finish Packing Your Bags
Take Some Last Pregnancy Photos
Play Cards
Go to the Movies
Rent a Video
Have a Date Night and Go to Dinner
WHAT YOUR Birth COMPANION MIGHT DO
Keep her Company, if She Prefers it
Encourage her to Move Around
Massage her Back or Feet to Promote Relaxation
Time Some Contractions
Praise Her
See if There are Any Last Minute Chores to Finish
It’s important during early labour to make sure an effective birthing pattern has started. Too much stress and anxiety over this phase can prolong your labor or make it less productive as stress hormones can interfere with cervical dilation and effacement. Try to stay in the moment rather than worrying about what lies ahead. Relaxation is key throughout all the stages of birthing.