Although every woman experiences labor differently, there are some general signs that labor is beginning. You may have some of these signs "on and off" for several days before labor starts.

There are three stages to the labour and birth process. In stage one, your cervix thins and opens so that the baby can then move through the birth canal. Stage Two is the pushing stage, and ends with the birth of your baby. Stage Three is the delivery of the placenta.

A woman's first labour often lasts 10 to 14 hours. However this is just an average, in reality, labours can vary from a few hours to 36 hours or more. In future pregnancies, labours are usually shorter. The length of time you spend in labour depends on many ...

Each labor experience is unique. Knowledge, relaxation, a supportive partner and a positive attitude can help you manage the discomfort of labor and increase your sense of control.

For many women, the most valuable tool is their partner or labor support person.

• Your support person can help you find comfortable positions, breathe with you to keep you focused, rub your back or do stroke massage to help you relax.
• Many partners are experiencing childbirth for the first time too, so we recommend you prepare together. Attending childbirth education classes, reading books and going to prenatal checkups with you can help ...

You have now completed Class 3: Labour and Birth.

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