First Stage

First stage - dilation and effacement of your cervix

In the early part of the first stage you may have small contractions every 20 minutes or so. Your contractions may be irregular in frequency and strength. As labour progresses, the contractions will get longer, stronger and closer together. Towards the end of the first stage you will have them every three to four minutes. Active labour, is described as strong and frequent contractions, with a dilating cervix.

During the early first stage you may find that going for a gentle walk, having a warm shower or keeping busy by sharing the excitement with your other children or family members. Now is a great time for your support person to make sure everything is ready for the active stages of labour. Natural forms of pain relief - water, massage, heat, acupressure are great tools to help you stay comfortable during the first stage.