Is your baby due? Everything about normal labor and delivery in simple terms

The day you've been dreaming about and eagerly waiting for for months is now very close. There's only a short time left for a new guest to join your and your husband's lives. These days, you're probably filled with joy, but also a little fear and curiosity. "How will it feel when you start having a baby ?", "What will happen?", etc. You probably have a lot of questions in your mind. So today, let's talk about what happens from the moment you start having a baby, to the first few days with your new baby.

What are the signs that you are about to have a baby?

The 'due date' that the doctor gave you is just a rough idea. No one can tell you exactly when you will have your baby. It is normal for your baby to arrive three weeks before or two weeks after the due date. However, there are a few signs that your baby's arrival is not far off. Let's see what they are.

The three stages of childbirth

Childbirth is generally divided into three main stages. The length of time each mother goes through these stages is different.

Stage 1

This is the most time-consuming part. It also has three parts.

• Latent phase: This is the longest and least painful part of labor. During this time, the pain gradually increases. This is because the cervix is ​​gradually opening to make way for the baby. Once the pain subsides, you will be admitted to the hospital. The doctor will check you regularly to see how far your cervix has opened.
• Active phase: At this point, your cervix is ​​starting to open rapidly. You may feel a sharp pain or pressure in your abdomen or back every time you have a contraction. Even if you feel like pushing, your doctor will tell you to wait until your cervix is ​​fully dilated (10 centimeters).
• Transition phase: By now the cervix is ​​fully dilated. The pain is very sharp and intense. It comes every 3-4 minutes and lasts about 60-90 seconds.

Stage 2

This stage begins when your cervix is ​​fully dilated. This is when your doctor tells you to "push." ​​The force of your pushing and the force of the pain combine to push the baby down the birth canal.

When the widest part of the baby's head comes near the vaginal opening, we call it crowning. Once the baby's head is out, the doctor will suction the baby's nose and mouth to remove any excess fluid, blood, and mucus. Then, as you continue to push, the baby's shoulders and body will come out.

Once the baby is fully born, the doctor or your husband (if you have requested it) will cut the umbilical cord .

Stage 3

After you have your baby, you enter the final stage of labor. This is when the placenta, which has been nourishing the baby inside your womb, is delivered.

What can be done about pain?

Just like the length of labor, the pain experienced varies from person to person. Factors such as the baby's position, size, and intensity of pain can affect this. Some mothers can manage the pain with breathing exercises and relaxation techniques . But others need other ways to cope with the pain.

Pain control with medication

There are several types of medications that can help reduce the pain of labor. These are largely safe for both mother and baby. However, as with any medication, there are some risks, so it's best to discuss this with your doctor beforehand and make a decision.

• Analgesics: These reduce the amount of pain you feel, but they don't completely eliminate the sensation.
• Anesthetics : These eliminate all sensation, including pain.
• Spinal block or epidural block: This is the most common method. This injection is given into the spinal area, numbing the lower part of your body. With an epidural, a thin tube (catheter) is inserted into the space around the vertebrae and a continuous stream of pain medication is given.
• General Anesthetics: This puts you completely to sleep. This is often used during a cesarean delivery.

Ways to cope with pain without medication

Some mothers prefer to face this challenge without medication. Things like acupuncture, hypnosis, breathing exercises, and changing positions can help. Even if you choose this method, if you become unbearable at any point during labor, you have the right to ask for pain medication.

What to expect after having a baby?

Your body goes through a lot of changes before and after you have a baby. It can be a great relief to know about these things in advance.

Possible physical changes

• Pain at the site of the stitches: To make it easier for the baby to come out, the doctor may make a small cut (an `Episiotomy`) in the area between the vagina and the anus (perineum). Otherwise, the area may tear on its own. The stitches placed in these areas may make it difficult to walk or sit. You may also feel pain when coughing or sneezing.
• Breast pain: As your milk starts to come in, your breasts may feel swollen, hard, and painful for a few days. Your nipples may also hurt.
• Hemorrhoids: It is common to develop hemorrhoids after childbirth.
• Constipation: It may be difficult to have a bowel movement for a few days. This can be made worse by things like pain from stitches or hemorrhoids.
• Fever and chills: Hormonal levels and blood circulation changes, so you may sweat suddenly and then feel cold and need to cover up.
• Difficulty controlling urine or stool: Due to the muscles that are stretched during labor, you may leak some urine when you laugh or cough. Sometimes, you may also have difficulty controlling your bowels. These will mostly go away with time.
• "After pains": Pain that lasts for a few days as the uterus shrinks back to its original size. This pain may be more severe when breastfeeding.
• Vaginal discharge (Lochia): After giving birth, there is a heavier flow of blood than during menstruation. Over time, this discharge turns white or yellow in color and stops completely within two months.

Mental things

In the first few days and weeks after having a baby, you may feel irritable, sad, and even tearful. We call this the "baby blues." About 80% of new mothers experience this condition. These things are normal with hormonal changes, fatigue, and new responsibilities.