Online Childbirth Education Class Three

By Robin Elise Weiss, LCCE, About.com Guide

Transition: The hardest, but shortest phase of the first stage of labor. Transition is what television births are all about. These contractions are stronger and longer and finish dilating the cervix. The usually last 90-120 seconds with breaks of about as long in between. Generally this phase only last for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

What You Might Be Feeling

• Contractions that are longer and more intense
• Need for support
• Hot flashes
• Burping or belching
• Trembling
• Low pressure as the baby continues to descend
• Your water may break
• Loss of modesty
• Loss of appetite

Behavior & Attitude

This is the hardest and shortest part of labor. This is where it gets really intense. Many women will respond with phrases like "I can't do this."

Ways to Cope

Here are some suggestions of things to do:

• Change positions frequently
• Take one contraction at a time
• Take a bath or shower
• Rock in a rocking chair
• Do pelvic tilts (great for backaches)
• Concentrate on relaxing
• Use visualization
• Use your rest periods effectively
• Stay focused on the goal

What Your Partner Might Do

• Cool rags for her face and neck
• Change temperature in the room if possible
• Encourage her and remind her that this is the short part, soon she will be pushing
• Keep her company, if she wants it
• Remind her to drink and go to the bathroom
• Encourage her to move around
• Massage her back to promote relaxation and comfort
• Protect her environment (keep it darker and quieter)
• Praise her

_{Photo © Robin Elise Weiss}