Active labor

During active labor, the cervix opens from 6 cm to 10 cm. Contractions become stronger and closer together. They also happen more consistently. Your legs might cramp. Your stomach may feel upset. If it didn't happen earlier, you might feel your water break. You also may feel more pressure in your back. If you haven't headed to your labor and delivery facility yet, now's the time.

Your initial excitement may fade as labor goes on and you get more uncomfortable. Ask for pain medication or anesthesia if you want it. Your healthcare team works with you to make the best choice for you and your baby. Remember, you're the only one who can judge your need for pain relief.

How long it lasts: Active labor often lasts 4 to 8 hours or more. On average, the cervix opens at approximately 1 cm an hour. But it may take longer for people who haven't had a baby before.

What you can do: Look to your labor partner and healthcare team for encouragement and support. Try breathing and relaxation techniques to ease pain. Use what you learned in childbirth class or ask your healthcare team for suggestions.

Unless you need to be in a specific position to allow for close monitoring of you and your baby, try the following to be more comfortable during active labor:

• Change positions.
• Roll on a large rubber ball (birthing ball).
• Take a warm shower or bath.
• Take a walk, stopping to breathe through contractions.
• Have a gentle massage between contractions.

If you need a Cesarean delivery, also called a C-section, having food in your stomach can lead to complications. If your healthcare professional thinks you might need a C-section, or if you have an epidural for pain relief, you may be limited to small amounts of clear liquids, such as water, ice chips, popsicles and juice, instead of solid foods.

The last part of active labor can be particularly intense and painful. Contractions come close together and can last 60 to 90 seconds. You may have pressure in your lower back and rectum. Tell a member of your healthcare team if you feel the urge to push.

If you want to push but your cervix isn't fully open, you'll likely need to wait. Pushing too soon could make you tired and cause your cervix to swell. That might delay delivery. Pant or blow through the contractions. This part of labor typically is short, lasting about 15 to 60 minutes.