The duration of a contraction is measured from the beginning of one contraction to the end of the same contraction.
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Taking note of these three important factors would help you answer important questions about labor and delivery. Important Facts About Timing ContractionsĪs you time your contractions, here are some really important things to take note of: Your timelines may vary from everyone else’s. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that pregnancy and labor is unique to each person and each pregnancy.
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On the other hand, subsequent labors range between 8-10 hours. Generally, labor for the first birth lasts for about 12-24 hours. Each contraction will last for about 60 – 90 seconds with about 2 minutes intervals. It is during this stage that your baby crowns and is ready to be delivered. In fact, these contractions may seem to overlap. At this point, the cervix is about 8-10 cm wide and contractions are longer and more intense. This is the final stage of labor before the birth of your baby. Also, the contractions will be stronger and last for 45 – 60 seconds, with about 3 – 5 minutes interval. During the active labor stage, you should call your health care provider or head to the hospital. 2. Active LaborĪt this point, the cervix would have dilated to about 4 – 7 cm. Each of these contractions may last for 30 – 45 seconds and usually occur 30 minutes apart. At this stage, your contractions are mild are slightly irregular. Early Laborĭuring early labor, the cervix has dilated to about 3cm in diameter. Degree of cervical dilatation: This refers to how much the cervix has widened during labor.Ī combination of these two factors provide the three distinct stages of labor: 1.What Are The Stages of Labor Contractions?Įach stage of labor is characterized by two major factors. This would help you track the stage of labor contraction and prepare to go to the hospital for delivery. This repeated action pushes the baby towards the birth canal for delivery.ĭuring labor, it is really helpful to time your contractions. from the fundus (upper part) to the cervix (lower part). These contractions move from up to down in the uterus i.e.
Labor contractions timing series#
In fact, the actual work of labor is done through a series of repeated contractions. Thankfully, each contraction is followed by a rest phase which is good for you and your babyĭuring labor, these contractions spur the release of oxytocin, a hormone that further stimulates contractions. Labor contractions are the periodic tightening and relaxation of your uterine muscles as your body prepares for delivery.