Download Latent Phase of Labour

Labour is a journey, which can take a
long time…every woman’s labour is
different…this leaflet gives you lots of
suggestions to help with labour,
especially the early part of 1st stage.
Introduction
Labour is a unique experience for every woman. No
two labours will be the same. We will be here to
support you through this special time and to help
you to achieve the birth you have planned for.
Wherever you choose to give birth, we are
committed to keeping your labour as normal as
possible. Your body will be preparing to give birth,
making small changes that will start the journey of
labour. Understanding this process and the latent
phase will make this easier.
What is the Latent phase of labour?
This is the earliest phase of labour or pre-labour.
The cervix has been closed for many months
keeping your baby safe inside the uterus until the
time comes for it to open to allow delivery. For
labour to begin the cervix needs to become softer
and thinner. The time this takes varies considerably
and you may not be aware of it happening.
Some women find latent phase contractions so mild
they do not know they have experienced them.
Others feel the contractions so strong that they are
convinced this is active labour. This can lead to
early admission to hospital followed by
disappointment after hours of discomfort when they
find they are still in the latent phase.
The cervix during pregnancy starts out firm. During
the latent phase, contractions cause it to soften and
become thinner, allowing it to become pliable
enough to stretch over your baby's head.
If this is your first labour these changes require
more time. By having a slow and steady latent
phase you will have time to adjust to labour as the
rhythm and pace of contractions increase.
Remember – the ‘latent phase’ of labour can last
a very long time, especially for first time Mums.
What happens during the latent phase of
labour?
Your body is producing the necessary hormones,
such as oxytocin, for the birth of your baby. The
uterus (womb) is contracting irregularly, to try to
figure out which muscle fibres to use for labour.
During this time you may be unsure if these are
Braxton-Hicks contractions or true labour. (BraxtonHicks are irregular contractions of the uterus
occurring towards the middle of pregnancy in the
first pregnancy and, earlier and more intensely, in
subsequent pregnancies.)
What else can you expect in the latent phase?
•
You may experience some blood stained
discharge called “a show”. This can occur
days or even weeks before labour begins
•
Contractions in your lower back or abdomen,
varying from cramping to tight and painful.
These may vary in frequency, coming often
and feeling strong, then less intense and
further apart
•
Increased pelvic pressure as your baby
descends into the pelvis
•
Increased vaginal discharge
•
It is common to have irregular tightenings for
a few hours, which fizzle out completely. This
is entirely normal because your body is
preparing in small stages
•
Your membranes may rupture (waters
breaking), which can be a slow leak or a
gush. Either way, contact us to let us know.
These are all good signs – your body is
preparing for the journey ahead. Be patient,
knowing you will give birth when your body is
ready
What can you do to help you get through the
latent phase?
•
Your labour companions can reassure you
and help achieve a calm, tranquil
environment
•
Eat well. Your body will need energy for
labour – Eating little and often –
carbohydrates (bread, pasta, rice, cereal) for
slow – release energy plus sugary foods for
quick-release energy
•
Rest and relax. Getting comfortable can be
challenging, even when not in established
labour. Try building a nest with bean
bags/pillows/duvets so you can be on all
fours on the bed, as lying down can be
uncomfortable. Try rocking on a birthing ball
or lean over it. Dim the lights and play
relaxing music
•
TENS machines can help in the latent phase
and early labour. These can be bought or
hired. Many women find them beneficial –
ask for a leaflet if you need more information
•
Breathing techniques are an effective way of
coping with contractions. Holding your breath
can cause more pain, because the muscles
need oxygen to work effectively. As the
contraction starts, focus on taking a breath
in, allowing the breath out to be longer,
slower and steadier. It can help if you inhale
through you nose and exhale through the
mouth
•
Massage – ask your partner / labour
supporter to do this for you
•
Putting a hot water bottle on any areas that
ache – your lower back
•
Trying a soft gel sports injury pack which you
have cooled in the freezer – this can help
with backache
•
Try relaxing in a warm bath
•
You may find it helps to make love – kissing,
cuddling and having an orgasm all cause
your body to produce oxytocin. This is the
hormone which is also produced in labour
and which makes the uterus contract. Nipple
stimulation releases oxytocin also
•
Alternative therapies can work well.
Aromatherapy, acupressure, hypnobirthing
and massage from a qualified practitioner
can help you manage
Finally!
Keep calm and relaxed so the body can produce
the hormone oxytocin, needed for a short and
easy labour. Home is often the place where you
will feel most relaxed and where you will be
more likely to produce oxytocin. Stress causes a
release of adrenalin which can inhibit labour,
increase its length and make the contractions
feel painful. Often the move from home to
hospital can result in a release of adrenalin.
Also you need to be in the company of relaxed
birthing partners who support you and are calm,
research has shown that its best to limit the
number of people who are with you as people
coming and going is not good for your oxytocin
levels.
If you go to hospital in the latent phase, your
midwife will encourage you to return home to
relax and allow the hormones to work with your
body. If you are concerned about any symptoms
you are experiencing, feel free to call a midwife
at any time (numbers at the end of this leaflet).