-By Bushra Hatahet, UK-Trained Clinical Midwife
Early labour is often the longest phase of labour. For some women it lasts only a few hours, while for others it may continue for a day or more.
This stage is your body’s way of preparing for active labour. Your cervix gradually softens, shortens (effaces) and begins to open (dilate).
Although contractions may already feel uncomfortable, remember that every contraction is helping your baby move closer to being born.
One of the biggest mistakes women make is assuming they need to rush to hospital as soon as labour begins. In most pregnancies, staying comfortable at home for as long as possible is often the best place to be.
Labour usually begins gradually rather than suddenly.
Signs that labour may be starting include:
True labour usually becomes:
Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, true labour contractions continue even if you change position, have a bath or drink water.
You should time:
Also pay attention to:
A contraction timer app can be useful, but your own instincts are just as important.
As a general guide, many hospitals recommend attending when contractions are around every 3 to 5 minutes, lasting approximately 60 seconds, and have been following this pattern for around one hour.
Always follow the advice given by your own midwife or hospital.
Your waters may break:
The fluid is usually:
Contact your maternity unit if:
If your waters break before labour starts, many women will go into labour naturally within 24 hours, although your care will depend on your individual circumstances and your hospital’s recommendations.
Take regular sips of water or electrolyte drinks throughout labour.
Labour is physical work, and dehydration can make contractions feel more difficult.
If you feel hungry, choose light foods such as:
Small amounts of food often provide enough energy without making you feel uncomfortable.
Warm water helps relax your muscles and many women find contractions much easier to manage.
Slow, calm breathing helps reduce adrenaline and encourages oxytocin—the hormone responsible for effective contractions.
If contractions are still manageable, try to:
Conserving your energy now will help later in labour.
Dim the lights.
Play calming music.
Use your TENS machine if you have one.
Diffuse pregnancy-safe essential oils if you enjoy aromatherapy.
The calmer you feel, the more oxytocin your body can produce.
You should contact your midwife or maternity unit if:
Always trust your instincts. You know your body best, and your maternity team would much rather you call with a concern than stay at home feeling unsure.
“Early labour is not a race. The more relaxed you are, the more efficiently your body can work. Stay home for as long as it is safe to do so, keep moving, stay hydrated, and remember that every contraction is bringing you one step closer to meeting your baby.”
If you are looking for calm expertise and genuine continuity of care, let’s talk.
