Becoming a mother is a big, beautiful journey. Childbirth in particular is one of the most unforgettable and emotional experiences of that journey. During this journey, when your baby is about to come into this world, there is a chance that the baby's head will just start to appear. This moment, which many mothers dread, but is very important, is what we call `Crowning`. Today, we will talk about everything in a very simple way, in a way that you can understand.
What exactly is 'Crowning'?
Simply put, `Crowning` is when the top of your baby's head begins to appear through your vagina during labor. Think of it like your baby, who has been inside your womb for months, knocking on the door to come into the world.
This happens during the second stage of labor. That's when you push to get the baby out. Once the baby's head appears like this, the baby's entire body will come out with the next few pushes.
At this point, your doctor or midwife will tell you to push slowly and in a controlled manner. You know what? They want to give the tissues around your vagina time to stretch. Pushing too hard can tear the tissues. So it's important to follow their instructions.
How the doctor helps
Sometimes, if the baby is a little big, or if the tissues need a little more room, the doctor may make a small cut to make the vagina a little bigger. This is called an `Episiotomy` . But don't worry, most of the time this is not necessary. Also, you may need to use a device that looks like two large spoons ( `Forceps` ) to help you carefully get the baby out, or you may need to use a `Vacuum extraction` to pull the baby out. This is all done for your safety and that of your baby.
How does this 'Crowning' moment feel?
This is something that many mothers want to know, and it's also something that scares them a little. There are several things you'll feel at this time.
At first, you will feel a lot of pressure in your rectum, as if you are having a bowel movement . This is very normal, because when the baby's head descends, it pushes everything around it.
Next is the "ring of fire" experience that many people talk about. As the baby's head comes out, the nerves and tissues in your vagina are stretched to their limits. This can cause a burning, tingling, or prickling sensation . Some mothers also call this pain the "ring of fire."
This burning sensation means that your tissues are stretching well. It's preparing the way for the baby to come out. Remember, this intense pain only lasts a few minutes. Once the baby's head comes out, the pain will subside a lot.
However, if you are taking painkillers , you may not feel this pain as much.
| Pain and discomfort | Ways to control pain |
|---|---|
| 'Ring of Fire' - A severe inflammation and burning sensation around the vagina. | If you are not taking painkillers, it is important to breathe slowly and control your pushing. Follow your doctor's instructions. |
| Pressure - a feeling of having to defecate. | This is normal. It is a sign that the baby's head is coming down. Your medical team will inform you about this. |
| With painkillers | If you have an epidural block , you will only feel a strong thrust, with very little burning or pain. A pudendal nerve block can also reduce pain in this area. |
| Non-medical relief | Your partner or someone nearby can place a hot compress on your back or a cold cloth on your forehead. This can help reduce discomfort. |
How can you prepare for this in advance?
It's normal to feel a little nervous and anxious about childbirth. This is common to all mothers. However, being aware of this in advance and being a little prepared can give you a lot of strength. Remember, every mother experiences this experience differently.
Here are some things that may help you:
- Attend awareness classes: Midwives at our hospitals and health clinics conduct awareness classes for expectant mothers. Attend these and learn about what happens during labor, how to breathe, and ways to cope with pain.
- Practice breathing exercises: Practice breathing correctly and deeply. Controlling your breathing when you are in pain can help you cope with the pain. Meditation can also help you calm your mind.
- Ask questions, don't hold back your fears: Talk to your doctor or midwife about any questions or concerns you may have beforehand. Ask questions like "What is crowning?" and "Can I get an epidural?" and you'll feel more at ease.
- Inform your support person: Keep your closest friends, like your husband, mother, or sister, informed about these things. Then it will be easier for them to support you during that difficult time.
Crowning is like the final hurdle to the most unforgettable moment of your life. Even though it may be a little difficult, what you get after it is priceless. It is your beloved baby. So, take courage, trust your medical team and face this journey.
Take-Home Message
- 'Crowning' is a normal and essential stage during labor when the baby's head begins to emerge from the vagina.
- It is normal to feel a strong burning sensation called the 'ring of fire'. It is temporary and will most likely go away once the baby's head comes out.
- There are both medical methods (epidural, pudendal block) and non-medical methods (breathing, hot/cold applications) to control pain.
- Talk openly with your doctor about your fears and concerns early on. Being informed will increase your self-confidence.
- Trust your body and the medical team that supports you. You are strong for this.
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