1. Early Labour

What is happening

How you may feel

The cervix is thinning and opening from 1 cm to about 4 cm.

The contractions

• feel like menstrual cramps, gas, backache, or pressure in your pelvis. You may also feel tightening in your lower back and groin.
• last between 30  and 60 seconds each.
• start out mild and slowly get stronger.
• begin at about 30 minutes apart but get closer until they are about 5 minutes apart.

A pinkish mucous (mucous plug) comes out of the vagina.  Sometimes this happens sooner.

Your waters may break.

You may need to urinate more often or have diarrhea.​

Excited

Relieved that labour is beginning

Afraid

Talkative

Anxious for the birth of the baby

Carry on with your usual activities. Stay upright as long as possible.

Walk.

If your waters have not broken, shower or relax in a warm tub.

Rest. At night, sleep if you can. 

Go to the bathroom as often as you need to.

Eat and drink as you feel the need; it is important to maintain your energy. Even if you don't feel hungry, try to eat a light meal and be sure to get enough to drink.

Breathe normally until walking or talking during a contraction becomes uncomfortable. Then, begin deep breathing as you need it.

Go to the hospital when your contractions are coming regularly and about 5 minutes apart for a first child or 10 minutes apart if this is not your first child. You may call the hospital for advice.

Go to the hospital immediately if your waters break.

Stay with her. Encourage her.

Help her to walk, relax, rest, and pass the time.

Remind her to go to the bathroom. She will feel better if her bladder is empty.

Encourage her to eat and drink.

Time her contractions.

Help her during her contractions.

• breathe with her
• help her find comfortable positions
• use comfort measures such as massage, hot water bottle, or cold pack.

Make sure that her suitcases are packed and ready to take to the hospital.

Call the doctor and take her to the hospital when it is time.