Introduction
Contractions are a natural part of the labor process and can be both uncomfortable and exciting. They signal that your body is preparing for delivery and the arrival of your little bundle of joy. But what exactly are contractions, and what should you do when they start?
Definition of Contractions
A contraction is a tightening of the uterus that causes the abdomen to become hard. Contractions play an important role in the labor process as they help the cervix to open and thin (efface) and move your baby through the birth canal. It’s important to understand the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions so that you know when it’s time to go to the hospital.
Types of Contractions
There are two types of contractions – Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions are also known as “false” or “practice” labor contractions. They usually occur during the second and third trimester of pregnancy and often feel like a tightening of the stomach muscles. They are generally painless and irregular, and the intensity of the contraction will vary. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Braxton Hicks contractions do not cause the cervix to open or thin.
True Labor Contractions
True labor contractions are the kind that will cause your cervix to open and thin (efface). These contractions are usually more intense and painful than Braxton Hicks contractions and occur at regular intervals. They will become longer, stronger, and closer together as labor progresses.
Timing of Contractions
Once you’ve established that you are having true labor contractions, there are a few things you should look for in order to determine how close you are to delivery.
What Should the Contractions Look Like?
True labor contractions will start out mild and then gradually become more intense. The intensity of the contractions will vary from woman to woman but typically will last anywhere from 30-70 seconds. You should also note the frequency of the contractions as this will help you determine how close you are to delivery.
How Often Should Contractions Occur?
According to the American Pregnancy Association, if you are in the early stages of labor, contractions should be occurring every 10 minutes or less. As labor progresses, the frequency of the contractions should increase with contractions occurring every 3-5 minutes.
Relax Before Contractions Start
It’s important to stay relaxed before contractions start. This will help you remain calm and focus on the task at hand. There are several techniques you can use to help relax your body.
Slow Breathing
Taking slow, deep breaths can help relax your body and reduce stress. Focus on your breath and take long, slow inhales and exhales. This will help your body relax and allow you to focus on the task at hand.
Visualization
Visualization is another great way to stay relaxed before contractions start. Visualize yourself in a peaceful place such as a beach or a mountain top. Allow yourself to imagine the sounds and smells of the environment around you. This will help you stay focused and relaxed.
Connect With Your Body During Contractions
Once contractions begin, it’s important to connect with your body and focus on the task at hand. There are several things you can do to help make the process easier.
Changing Positions
Changing positions during contractions can help you stay comfortable and reduce the intensity of the contraction. Try walking, rocking, or squatting during contractions to help ease the discomfort.
Massaging
Massaging your lower back or abdomen during contractions can help reduce the intensity of the contraction. Have your partner or a family member massage your back or abdomen in small circles to help ease the discomfort.
Rocking
Rocking your hips back and forth during contractions can help reduce the intensity of the contraction. Try rocking your hips in a circular motion or side to side to help ease the discomfort.
Listen to Your Doctor or Midwife
It’s important to listen to your doctor or midwife when it comes to contractions. They will provide you with advice on when to go to the hospital and when to start using pain relief methods.
When to Go to the Hospital
Your doctor or midwife will let you know when it’s time to go to the hospital. Generally, you should go to the hospital when your contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 60 seconds each, and have been going on for an hour.
When to Start Using Pain Relief Methods
Your doctor or midwife will also let you know when it’s time to start using pain relief methods. Generally, you should start using pain relief methods when your contractions become too painful to handle. This could be anywhere from 4-8 centimeters dilated.
Utilize Pain Relief Methods
There are several types of pain relief methods available that can help make the labor and delivery process easier. From epidurals to hydrotherapy, there are many options to choose from.
Different Types of Pain Relief Methods
The most common type of pain relief method is an epidural. An epidural is a form of regional anesthesia that blocks pain in the lower half of the body. Other types of pain relief methods include hydrotherapy, nitrous oxide, and topical analgesics.
Benefits of Each Method
Each type of pain relief method has its own benefits. Epidurals can help reduce the pain associated with contractions, while hydrotherapy can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Nitrous oxide can provide short-term relief from pain, and topical analgesics can help reduce the pain associated with labor and delivery.
Conclusion
Preparing for contractions before they start is essential to making the labor and delivery process easier. By understanding the different types of contractions, timing them, and utilizing pain relief methods, you can help make the process of giving birth a little bit easier. Remember to always listen to your doctor or midwife and follow their instructions for a safe and successful delivery.
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