It seems like every website has some information on pregnancy and infant care these days. While the Internet is an incredibly valuable resource for information you will want to double check all information you receive about your baby with your doctor. It is better to be safe than sorry. You will hear a lot of conflicting information about the best way to take care of your baby. A combination of common sense and your doctors advice is the best way to wade through all of the information.
Know the Stages of Labor
The most angst filled time of your pregnancy will be when labor begins. Knowing what to expect will lessen the anxiety you are bound to feel during this time. The first phase of labor is called early labor. Symptoms of this phase may include contractions. These contractions may only last a few seconds and are anywhere from five to twenty minutes apart. Other symptoms may include cramps, backache, and the release of the mucous plug from your vagina.
The second phase of labor is considered active labor. This phase of labor usually goes faster than the first. Your contractions will come harder and will be closer together. They will also last longer-between 40 and 60 seconds. Additionally, your cervix will begin to dilate. Full dilation is at ten centimeters. Your cervix will dilate to approximately seven centimeters during phase two of your labor.
The third phase of labor is called advanced, or transitional labor. This phase of labor is characterized by contractions. Contractions during this phase of labor last approximately 60 to 90 seconds and are two to three minutes apart. Your cervix may quickly become fully dilated. You will also feel a lot of pressure on your rectum. This will give you the urge to push. You should not push until you are told to do so. The next phase will be delivery. You may feel totally exhausted, but rest assured you are able to push your baby out.
