Labour is the final stage of pregnancy, marking that the baby is ready for birth, and the common fear that haunts a first-time mother is the recognition of labour pain against the false one. The knowledge of such labour pain symptoms could help the mothers physically as well as emotionally prepare for childbirth.
In this comprehensive manual, we will be investigating the accompanying symptoms of labour pain, how to tell real labour from fake, and the situation when it becomes necessary to call for medical assistance.
What Are Labour Pains?
Labour pain is the symptom with which the body gets ready to deliver by the contractions to aid in the dilation of the cervix and the movement of the baby down the birth canal. It could start out with mild discomfort, climax into severe pain and eventually lead to delivery.
Early signs of labour
The early stage of labour does not always commence with a bang; many women experience some early telltale signs the active labour might begin, sometimes days and sometimes weeks away. Some early signs include:
- Lightening (baby dropping) – When the baby begins to slip lower into the pelvis, it releases some pressure on the diaphragm while adding to the pressure on the bladder.
- Increased Vaginal Discharge – A thick mucus discharge, sometimes with streaks of blood (bloody show), indicates that the cervix is getting ready for delivery.
- Intense Nesting Instinct – Some women experience that last-minute surge of energy driving them toward cleaning everything that can be cleaned and organizing everything that can possibly be organized before labour begins.
- Mild Back Pain or Cramps – Persistent lower back pain or cramps that feel like menstrual cramps can indicate that labour is close.
- Loosening of the Joints – The body’s relaxation of the ligaments induces a sensation of looseness in the joints.
Symptoms of True Labour Pain
While contractions begin, there are notable symptoms of labour:
- Contractions That Are Regular with Increasing Intensity
- True labour contractions have a rhythm and are regular.
- They progressively increase in intensity and frequency.
- False contractions, on the other hand, do respond to posture and activity.
- Lower Back Pain with Pressure
- Labour pain, usually starting in the lower back, spreads to the abdomen.
- It may feel like severe menstrual cramps or waves of intense pressure.
- The ongoing pain worsens with each passing moment.
- Water Breaking (Membrane Rupture)
- The rupture of the amniotic sac and the release of fluid – either in torrents or as a slow trickle.
- The fluid must look clear or slightly tinted pink, and if it looks distinctly green or brown, immediate medical assistance is indicated.
- The labour usually follows within 24 hours after water has broken.
- Dilation and Effacement of the Cervix
- The cervix prepares for delivery by softening, shortening, and opening (dilating).
- This is confirmed when the doctor or midwife conducts a pelvic exam.
- Increased Pelvic Pressure
- Pelvis pressure increases as the baby drops lower, making it hard for the women to walk or stand.
- As the labour progresses, many women experience an overwhelming urge to push.
When Should You Go to the Hospital?
Go to the hospital right away if:
- Contractions happen every five minutes for at least one minute, for one hour.
- Your water has broken, especially with discolored or foul-smelling fluid.
- There is heavy bleeding or a major decrease in fetal movements.
- You are experiencing major headaches, vision disturbances, or preeclamptic-type activity of high blood pressure.
- You have any risk factors for pregnancy or complications.
Pain Management During Labour
Pain in labour can be managed with various techniques, both natural and medical:
Natural techniques:
- Deep breathing and relaxation techniques.
- Warm baths or showers to relax muscles.
- Changing positions to diminish discomfort.
- Massage or acupuncture for pain relief.
Medical techniques:
- Epidural Block – excellent relief of pain usually with some slowing of labour.
- Intravenous Medications – to lessen the pain, but may cause drowsiness.
- Spinal Clean Anastasia – usually done for C-sections or giving rapid pain relief before delivery.
Conclusion
Labour pain is Mother Nature’s way of heralding the arrival of a new life. With the knowledge of the signs and symptoms and when to seek medical intervention, a woman who is about to give birth can now feel a sense of calm and preparedness. Keep constant communication with your doctor or midwife throughout this whole event, and most importantly listen to your body as it launches this wondrous journey into motherhood.
