Watson Clinic - Your Guide to Labor and Birth

N O T E S

D I L AT I O N I N T R A N S I T I O N P H A S E O F L A B O R

LABOR AND BIRTH

8 CM

9 CM

10 CM OPENED

M O O D

P O S I T I O N I N G O F B A B Y

Cervix dilates from 8 to 10 centimeters

Relying on partner for support, intense emotions

CO M F O R T M E A S U R E S

R O L E O F L A B O R PA R T N E R

• Remember that the birth is near and offer encouragement • Realize that you may have difficulty helping during this phase • Stay together, reduce distractions (environmental or family) • Hold eye contact and use short, simple statements

• Try to rest between contractions • Keep using comfort measures that have been working for you • Shortest but most intense labor stage; you will be pushing soon • Rely on your labor partner as much as you need to • Breathing techniques help control the urge to push before you’re 100% dilated

• Support breathing and stay focused • Work in a calm, organized manner • This phase may be hard for both of you

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