Any tips on speeding up labor? I’m 38 weeks and 4 centimeters dilated and 80% effaced, having contractions and all that. We’re just not regular enough to call it actual labor. I’m miserable - going on day 3 of contractions and ready to have this baby.
WeMoms
2 Apr 2024
Labor contractions
Labor contractions
As you near the end of your pregnancy journey, your body will start to prepare for labor by experiencing contractions. These contractions are a sign that your uterus is tightening and getting ready to push your baby into the world. While they can be uncomfortable, just know that each contraction is bringing you closer to meeting your little one.
Is it normal?
Labor contractions are a normal and natural part of giving birth. They signify that your body is getting ready to bring your baby into the world. As you progress through labor, your contractions will become stronger and more frequent, eventually leading to the delivery of your baby. While they can be uncomfortable, just know that each contraction is a sign that you're getting closer to meeting your little one.
Prevent and care
Labor contractions are a natural part of the birthing process, but they can be intense and painful. Proper management of labor contractions is crucial to ensure a safe and healthy delivery for both the mother and the baby.
- True labor contractions are consistent and become increasingly frequent.
- They are accompanied by pain, whereas Braxton Hicks contractions are typically painless.
- Labor contractions often last about 60 seconds and come every 5 minutes for an hour.
The feeling of a true contraction has been described as a wave. The pain starts low, rises until it peaks, and finally ebbs away. If you touch your abdomen, it feels hard during a contraction.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
When to consult?
Call your healthcare provider if you're experiencing regular contractions and think you may be in labor.
Top Asked Questions
How can I differentiate between Braxton Hicks contractions and actual labor contractions?
True labor contractions are consistent, become increasingly frequent, and are accompanied by pain.
When should I contact my healthcare provider if I suspect I'm in labor?
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience contractions that are regular, lasting about 60 seconds, and coming every 5 minutes for an hour.
What pain relief options are available during labor, and should I discuss them with my healthcare team beforehand?
Pain relief options may include epidurals, medications, or natural methods; discussing them with your healthcare team in advance is advisable.
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Kirst
19 Jan 2024
The difference between labor contractions and Braxton hicks https://youtu.be/2vALVaC2Vo8?si=nQllAN1tlFA1x5D7
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Taleia
25 Dec 2023
In induced labor 😩😮💙💙 contractions is eating me up . Twin boys on the way 👶🏼👶🏼
Brittany
Praying for a safe delivery 💙💙
27 Mar 2024
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Taleia
Thank you 🤗💙💙
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Kyleigh
27 Aug 2023
Currently 6.5 cm 100% effaced, was it more painful to push or the contractions? #advice #firstpregnancy #thirdtrimester #labor #contractions
Joy
For me contactions
27 Mar 2024
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Kristin
Contractions but I did get a epidural so I didn’t feel him come out
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Kyleigh
26 Aug 2023
How do you mamas time labor , not contractions but labor , for example in labor for 10 hrs and pushed for half hour. I’ve been having contractions probably since 11pm and it got very strong around 1am and then by 5am I woke my boyfriend to leave at 6 and have been at hospital since 6:30am probably.
Denise
I have to have pitocin to induce my labor just had my baby yesterday I was in labor for 24 hours timing for me just starts with how intense the contraction are
27 Mar 2024
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Tia
25 Oct 2022
Just left the hospital, I'm having mild contractions but not in active labor n only 1 cm dilated
Hannah
How many cm were you before they just checked you?
27 Mar 2024
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Tia
it was my first time being checked , my doctor never checked me
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Leylani
14 Oct 2022
Currently in active labor. Dilated 6cm but those contractions were no joke...literally
Blocked user
Whoo hoo!!! Hope you have a safe delivery
27 Mar 2024
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♡Elizabeth♡
They were crazy! Nothing I've ever felt before 😮
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Emily
11 Oct 2022
Been having contractions. They aren't close together at all very random contractions. 3-4 cm dilated already. Should go into labor any day now 😬 haha fun. I'm terrified 🙃
Brittany
If your waters having broken and your not having constant contractions 4-5 mins apart for 1-2 hours I’d stay home until the contractions get super uncomfortable and consistent.
27 Mar 2024
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Emily
yeah I haven't been planning on going to the hospital unless I really feel like it's necessary
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Bre 💗
11 Jun 2022
These Contractions Are Painful !!! 😩 I Hope It’s Not From Dehydration &&’ It’s For Labor !!!!!!!
Jasz
Aww Have you been timing them?
27 Mar 2024
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Becca
22 Jan 2022
Went into labor and delivery cause of contractions.. having active ones I’m at 2 and 80% effaced
Hannah
What dose effaced me ?
27 Mar 2024
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Becca
How thin you’re cervix is
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