From Contraction to Admission: How to Spot True Labor and Avoid Wasted Trips

Bringing new life into this world is a breathtaking experience. Literally! But as the due date approaches, the anticipation can also come with uncertainties. One of the most common concerns is determining when it's time to head to the hospital for labor. Nobody wants to make unnecessary trips or be sent back home due to false labor. Trust me, it's no fun. Throughout my 8 pregnancies, I've been there at least twice before I mastered the art of hospital timing.

In this week's post, allow me the honor to guide you through the thrilling journey from contraction to admission, ensuring you can spot true labor like an expert detective and avoid those annoying wasted trips to the hospital. Get ready to unravel the 5 secrets of decoding real labor from fake contractions, so you can confidently make your grand entrance when the time is just right! 

 

Step 1: Understanding The Stages of Labor.

Before diving into the signs of true labor, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the stages of labor. Early labor, active labor, transition, and pushing are the key phases that make up the labor process. By understanding these stages, you'll be better equipped to gauge your progress and make informed decisions.

 

1. Early Labor: Early labor, also known as the latent phase, is the initial stage of labor. During this phase, your cervix starts to efface (thin out) and dilate (open). Contractions may begin, but they are often mild and irregular. Early labor can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, and it's common to experience a range of emotions during this time, including excitement and anticipation. 

Tips for Early Labor:

• Rest and conserve your energy: Early labor can be a long process, so it's essential to rest and conserve your energy for the active phase.
• Stay hydrated and eat light, nourishing snacks: Drink plenty of fluids and opt for light, easy-to-digest snacks to keep your energy levels up.
• Distract yourself: Engage in activities that help take your mind off the contractions, such as watching a movie, listening to music, or taking a walk.

  

2. Active Labor: Active labor is when your cervix continues to dilate, usually from around 6 centimeters to 10 centimeters. During this stage, contractions become stronger, longer, and more frequent, typically occurring every 3-5 minutes. Active labor is often marked by a sense of increased intensity and focus as your body prepares for the pushing stage.

Tips for Active Labor:

• Find coping mechanisms: Use breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, and positions that provide comfort and relief during contractions. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you.
• Use water for pain relief: Taking a warm shower or using a birthing pool can help ease discomfort and provide relaxation during active labor.
• Maintain an open mindset: Keep an open mind about pain management options, such as epidurals or other forms of medication, if you decide they align with your birth plan. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider in advance.

 

3. Transition: Transition is the shortest but most intense phase of labor. During this stage, your cervix fully dilates to 10 centimeters. Contractions may be very strong, lasting up to 90 seconds, and occurring around every 2-3 minutes. Transition is often associated with increased pressure, a strong urge to push, and a mix of physical and emotional intensity.

Tips for Transition:

• Stay focused and go with the flow: Transition can be challenging both physically and emotionally, but remember that it's a sign that your baby's arrival is about to happen. Stay focused on each contraction and trust in your body's ability to progress through this stage.
• Use breathing techniques: Deep, slow breathing can help you manage the intensity of contractions and stay grounded during the transition.
• Seek support: Lean on your birth partner, doula, or healthcare provider for emotional support and encouragement during this intense phase.

  

4. Pushing and Delivery: The pushing stage, also known as the second stage of labor, begins when your cervix is fully dilated. During this stage, you'll work with your body's contractions to push your baby down the birth canal and into the world. The urge to push is often strong and instinctual. The length of the pushing stage can vary, but it typically lasts from a few minutes to a couple of hours. 

Tips for Pushing and Delivery:

• Follow your body's cues: Listen to your body and follow its natural urges to push. Your body will often give you signals indicating when it's time to bear down and push.
• Deep breathing: Take deep breaths during contractions and use the power of your breath to aid in pushing. Take a deep breath in, hold it briefly, and then exhale slowly as you bear down and push. This technique helps you maintain control and focus while directing your energy effectively.
• Use your abdominal muscles: Engage your abdominal muscles by bearing down and pushing as if you're having a bowel movement. It's important to coordinate your pushing efforts with the contractions to maximize effectiveness.
• Directed pushing: Work closely with your healthcare provider or birth team to receive guidance on when and how to push. They may provide instructions on how long to push during each contraction, when to take breaks, and how to adjust your positioning for optimal results
• Position changes: Experiment with different positions that allow gravity to assist in the pushing process. Squatting, side-lying, using a birthing bar, or being on all fours are positions that can help open up the pelvic area and make pushing more effective. Your healthcare provider can suggest positions based on your specific situation and progress.
• Visualization and focus: Visualize your baby moving down the birth canal and into your arms. Use this mental image as motivation and focus during each push. Keep your attention on the end goal of meeting your baby, which can help you channel your energy effectively.
• Rest and conserve energy: Take advantage of the resting phase between contractions. Use this time to relax, take deep breaths, and regain energy for the next round of pushing.

Understanding the stages of labor empowers you to recognize the progress of your labor and make informed decisions. Remember, each labor experience is unique, and the duration and characteristics of each stage may vary. Trust in your body's ability to navigate through these stages and stay supported by your birth team throughout the journey.

 

Step 2: Accurately Timing Contractions: 

Timing contractions is a crucial aspect of monitoring the progress of labor and determining when it's time to take the next steps in your birthing journey. While the process of timing contractions may sound clinical, it can also be approached with a touch of fun and creativity. Let's explore the importance of accurately timing contractions as I provide you with practical tips to make this process more engaging and enjoyable. Because the goal is to make this more exciting than scary, I'll explain it in a more interesting way. 

Timing contractions is like deciphering a secret code during labor, and cracking that code is essential for knowing when true labor has arrived. Imagine yourself as a detective, equipped with a stopwatch or a trusty smartphone app, ready to unravel the mysteries of your contractions.

Contractions have their own unique storylines. They start with a gradual rise in intensity, peak at their strongest point, and then gradually fade away. Make sure you time the entire journey, capturing the full duration of the contraction, from beginning to end. This gives you a complete picture of its performance.

 

• Use a reliable timing method. Start the stopwatch or your timing app from the first sign of action. Picture a contraction as a dramatic scene unfolding. From the moment you feel that tightening sensation or discomfort building up, hit that start button on your stopwatch. This marks the beginning of the show. You'll want to time how long it lasts. Keep a contraction journal.
• Note the frequency. In addition to timing the duration of contractions, pay attention to their frequency. Frequency refers to the time between the start of one contraction to the start of the next. Keep track of this interval using your chosen timing method.
• Be consistent in timing. Consistency is key when timing contractions. Just as a scriptwriter carefully crafts a story, you too need to be consistent in your timing. Aim to time at least 3-5 contractions in a row to establish a pattern. This allows you to spot any changes in intensity, duration, or frequency, ensuring that you're not missing any plot twists in your labor journey.
• Record the information. Document the timing and frequency of your contractions. Imagine yourself as an investigative journalist documenting the story of your contractions. Write down the start time, end time, and duration of each contraction. Include the intervals between contractions, like time stamps in your journal. This record becomes your evidence, allowing you to share your findings with your healthcare provider and track the progression of labor.
• Use a contraction chart or app. Visualize your contractions as a captivating graph on a screen. Some contraction-tracking apps or online resources provide visual charts that plot the duration and frequency of your contractions. It's like watching the rise and fall of a thrilling storyline unfold before your eyes, helping you identify any patterns or changes in the plot.
• Stay relaxed and focused. Timing contractions can be a nerve-wracking task, but remember to stay calm and focused like a director guiding the production. Take deep breaths and let yourself sink into a state of relaxation. By remaining centered, you can accurately time contractions without unnecessary stress or distraction.

 

Step 3: Assessing The Intensity of Contractions

Assessing the intensity of contractions is like rating the experience of a thrilling rollercoaster ride! Picture yourself at an amusement park, excited to ride the most exhilarating coaster. As each contraction rolls in, you become the enthusiastic rollercoaster reviewer, evaluating its intensity and impact. Here's how to become the expert critic of your labor ride...

 

1. The Slow Climb: Picture yourself strapped into the rollercoaster seat, waiting for the ride to begin. As labor starts, contractions gradually build up, much like the rollercoaster ascending slowly up that first incline. At this stage, contractions might feel like gentle waves, rising and falling with a sense of anticipation.
2. The Thrilling Peak: Here comes the exciting part – the rollercoaster reaches its peak, and you feel the exhilarating rush as it descends at full speed. Similarly, as labor progresses, contractions become more intense and powerful, reaching their peak like a thrilling high on a rollercoaster. They demand your full attention, making it challenging to think of anything else.
3. The Heart-Pounding Twist: Just when you thought you knew what to expect, the rollercoaster throws in a surprise twist. Contractions, too, might have variations in intensity, catching you off guard and intensifying the labor experience.
4. The Smooth Glide: After the twists and turns, rollercoasters often glide smoothly along the track, providing a momentary respite. Similarly, between contractions, you may experience short breaks or moments of relief, allowing you to catch your breath before the next surge begins.
5. The Endless Loop: Rollercoasters are famous for their looping tracks, and contractions may also feel like an endless loop. As labor enters its peak phase, contractions can become more frequent and intense, creating a seemingly continuous cycle of sensation.
6. The Grand Finale: Finally, the rollercoaster ride comes to an end with a grand finale, leaving you with a mix of excitement and relief. Similarly, as labor reaches its climax, contractions signal the imminent arrival of your baby, preparing you for the grand finale of childbirth. 

Throughout this labor rollercoaster, remember that you have tools to manage the ride. Just like gripping the safety bar on a rollercoaster, focus on relaxation techniques, deep breathing, and finding positions that provide comfort during contractions. Your support team, whether it's your partner, a doula, or your healthcare provider, can be your ride companions, offering encouragement and guidance.

As you ride the rollercoaster of labor, remember that each contraction brings you one step closer to meeting your precious little one. Embrace the intensity, stay present in the moment, and trust in your body's ability to navigate this incredible journey. And just like the thrill of conquering a rollercoaster, the joy and fulfillment of bringing new life into the world will make the ride worthwhile. So, buckle up and embrace the adventure!

 

Step 4: Identifying Other Important Signs of Labor

Identifying other signs of true labor is like uncovering hidden treasures on a grand expedition. Beyond the contractions, there are other noteworthy signs that indicate your body is preparing for the exciting journey of childbirth. Just like a seasoned explorer, let's venture into the realm of true labor and discover these valuable signs:

1. The Gush of Waters: Picture stumbling upon a sparkling waterfall in the heart of the jungle. When your water breaks, it can feel like a sudden gush or a slow trickle of fluid. This is amniotic fluid, and it indicates that the amniotic sac surrounding your baby has ruptured, signifying the beginning of labor.
2. The Colorful Clues: As you explore the path of labor, you might encounter colorful hints. A "bloody show" is one such clue, like finding a treasure map with red markings. This is a discharge that may contain streaks of blood and mucus, indicating that the cervix is starting to dilate and efface.
3. The Dance of Pressure: As you journey further, you might sense an intriguing dance of pressure in your lower abdomen and pelvis. This is your baby's head engaging, getting ready to navigate the birth canal. The sensation may resemble a treasure chest, holding the precious cargo of your little one.
4. The Eager Helper: Just like a trusty guide on your expedition, your baby might be an eager helper, providing clues through their movements. Some babies become more active just before labor, while others may become calmer. This change in fetal movement can be a valuable sign that your baby is preparing for the grand entrance.
5. Back Pain: Like finding a hidden map in a dusty old book, back pain during labor can be a revealing sign. Some women experience back labor, where the intense contractions are felt primarily in the lower back instead of the front. This sensation can help confirm that you are indeed in true labor.
6. The Tug of Intuition: As you continue your expedition, don't underestimate the power of your intuition. Like a compass guiding you, your gut feeling can provide valuable insights. If something feels different or off, or if you just know that it's time, trust your intuition and consider it a valuable sign.
7. The Consistent Clockwork: As you venture deeper into true labor, you might notice a sense of consistency. Like the precise tick-tock of a clock, true labor contractions tend to become more regular, closer together, and progressively more intense over time.

As you navigate the terrain of labor, remember that each woman's journey is unique, and the signs of true labor can vary. Trust in yourself and your body's wisdom, but don't hesitate to seek guidance from your healthcare provider or birth team if you have any questions or concerns. Armed with the knowledge of these other signs, you'll be better equipped to identify true labor as you approach the wondrous moment of meeting your precious little one. 

 

Step 5: Trusting Your Instincts

Trusting your instincts during labor is like having an internal compass that guides you on your journey. As a mother-to-be, you possess a unique connection with your body and your baby, and this intuition is a powerful tool during this transformative journey. Just like an experienced adventurer in lands never visited before, let's dive into the importance of trusting your instincts during labor.

1. The Whisper of Intuition: Your intuition often begins as a gentle whisper, nudging you in a certain direction. Throughout your pregnancy, you've likely developed a deeper understanding of your body and its signals. Embrace this inner wisdom, as it can help you decipher the cues your body is sending you during labor
2. Recognizing the Unfamiliar: Just as an experienced traveler knows when something feels out of place, you may sense changes or shifts in your body that indicate labor is near. Pay attention to any unusual sensations or emotions, and view them as valuable signposts along your journey.
3. The Power of Knowing: Trust that you know yourself best. You've been on this incredible journey of pregnancy, and your instincts have been guiding you all along. Embrace the confidence that comes from knowing that you are equipped to navigate the path of labor.
4. Finding Comfort in Familiarity: Like a cherished keepsake from home, your instincts can provide comfort and reassurance during labor. When faced with decisions or uncertainties, tap into your inner knowing and draw strength from the familiarity of your instincts.
5. Listening to Your Inner Voice: Amidst the excitement and challenges of labor, take moments to listen to your inner voice. Just like a quiet stream flowing through a lush forest, your intuition can offer clarity amidst the noise of the birthing process.
6. Partnering with Your Birth Team: Trusting your instincts doesn't mean you have to navigate this journey alone. Your healthcare provider, midwife, doula, and birth partner are valuable allies who can support and validate your intuition. Share your thoughts and feelings with them, as they can provide additional insights and guidance.
7. Embracing Flexibility: Just like an adaptable traveler, be open to the twists and turns of labor. Your instincts might lead you to make unexpected choices or adjustments to your birth plan. Embrace the beauty of going with the flow, as labor is a remarkable journey of unpredictability and wonder.

As we near the end of our journey from contraction to admission, you've now become a true labor detective, equipped with the knowledge to spot the real deal and avoid any detours. In our next post, we'll dive into the practical tips and strategies for preparing for labor like a Pro! 

Stay tuned for our upcoming guide, where I'll equip you with everything you need to pack your birth bag, chart your birth plan, and embrace the power of your instincts as you venture into the remarkable path of childbirth.

Until then, may your days be filled with excitement, anticipation, and the joy of counting down to the momentous day when you'll meet your precious little one.

Let's Glow, Mama!

Your Natural Pregnancy Skincare Formulator and 8-time mom,

Leticia