HealthPartners - Preparing for childbirth

NOTES

DILATION IN ACTIVE PHASE OF LABOR

LABOR AND BIRTH

6 CM

7 CM

8 CM

POSITIONING OF BABY

MOOD

Cervix dilates from 6 to 8 centimeters

Not feeling social, more serious, less talkative, focused

COMFORT MEASURES

ROLE OF LABOR PARTNER

• Give 100% of your attention, breathe together • Offer verbal support and encouragement • Offer to wipe skin with a cool, damp washcloth • Encourage hourly trips to the bathroom to keep bladder empty • Keep their lips moist with water-soluble substance • Offer ice chips and light snacks • Surround them with pillows to help with comfort and relaxation • Apply pressure to the lower back, if needed • Use touch, massage, and relaxation techniques • Encourage frequent changes of position

• Don’t fight the contractions, let them to do their job • Keep breathing and doing relaxation techniques that work • Add abdominal massage with breathing techniques

• Concentrate on a focal point during contractions to help distract from pain

• A warm shower or bath may be very comforting • Change positions regularly to help the baby move through your pelvis • Try to stay out of bed unless it’s to rest or for an exam by your birth team

Chapter 4: Labor and Birth

53