Labor & birth: Labor 101

Having a baby is a big deal. How long labor lasts is different for everyone, but there are clues that can give us an idea of how long it might take.

Remember that these are just general norms. Your labor might look different. There is no right or wrong.

Different times for different people

First-time parents:‍

If it's your first baby, it might take 12 to 18 hours.
Your body is learning how to have a baby, so it takes a bit longer.

Experienced parents:

If you've had a baby before, it usually takes 8 to 10 hours.
Your body knows what to do from having a baby before.

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.

Labor 101

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!

Labor & birth