What happens in my body during labor?

Labor is your body preparing to deliver your baby. Several things happen:

Cervical thinning and dilation

When labor begins, your cervix starts to soften and open. This is the area between your uterus and vagina.
Dilation is measured in centimeters and effacement (thinning) is a percentage (0-100%).
The cervix will open to 10 centimeters. This allows your baby to be born.

Descent of the baby

Your baby moves down through the pelvis as they get into position for birth.
As this happens, you may feel “lighter” up by your ribs as it becomes easier to breathe. At the same time, you will likely feel more pressure in your bottom.
In this process, the baby’s head puts pressure on your cervix to help with thinning and dilation.

Uterine contractions

Your uterus starts contracting when you go into labor. At first these contractions might be irregular and feel like cramps. These can be called Braxton Hicks. During labor, contractions become regular, are closer together, and get stronger.
Contractions push your baby down toward the vagina (birth canal).
They're measured by how often they happen and how strong they are.
Contractions can hurt a lot. Have a plan for pain management and think about comfort measures you would like to use.

Rupture of membranes

This is when your “water breaks”. The “water” is a sac of amniotic fluid around your baby.
The amniotic sac protects your baby during pregnancy and acts like a cushion for your body during labor.
Usually your water breaks on its own right before or during labor. Sometimes your doctor or midwife will break your water to help labor progress.

Learning what’s happening in your body can help you prepare for birth. As you enter the first stage of labor, remember you’re getting closer to meeting your baby!

When are C-sections needed?

A C-section might be needed if:

Baby is showing signs of distress

Baby isn’t head-down in the womb (talk to your doctor about vaginal breech)

Multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.)

Placenta previa (the placenta is blocking baby’s way out)

Previous C-section (talk to your doctor about a vaginal birth after c-section or VBAC)

Medical issues

Labor problems

Recovering from a C-section

Recovery can be different for everyone. Here’s what you can expect:

You might spend a few days in the hospital for medical checks.

Pain is normal after surgery. You'll get medicine to help with it.

Taking care of the incision is crucial to avoid infection. Keep it clean and dry.

Avoid heavy lifting and hard activities for at least 6 weeks.

If you didn't plan for a C-section, it's important to honor your feelings and talk to someone you trust about it. How you feel matters.

You can usually start breastfeeding soon after the surgery. If you have a planned C-section, ask your doctor about skin-to-skin in the operating room and breastfeeding in the recovery room.

Recovery times vary. Most moms recover in about 6-8 weeks. Full recovery can take longer. It can be called the postpartum year. In this time, your body takes care of itself after growing a baby. Remember that it’s important to ask for help and take care of yourself too! Whether a C-section is planned or urgent, your medical team will guide you through a safe delivery and recovery. If you’re worried, talk to your healthcare team.

Things that can change how long it takes

Being healthy: If you're healthy and exercise, it can help labor go faster.

Baby position: A baby in the head down position with their chin tucked into their chest is usually easiest for mom and baby.

Mental preparedness: Being calm and prepared can help a lot. Taking a childbirth class is a good idea.

Support: Feeling safe where you’re giving birth and having skilled people around to help you can make it easier.

Relaxing: Doing things to relax, like breathing through contractions, can make it better.

Natural or induced labor: Sometimes your doctor or midwife needs to get labor started for you. This can change how long it takes.

Coping skills: Everyone is different, so some people need more time than others. What helps in the beginning of labor might be different than what helps later on. Your needs might change and that’s okay.

Talk to your doctor or midwife if you’re worried about how long labor will take. They can help you learn the process of childbirth and answer your questions. It’s their job to make sure you’re okay. Remember how long it takes to have a baby is different for everyone. Try to be flexible, trust your body, and know that your care team is there to help you.