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This is the first in a series that builds into a GUIDE TO LABOUR.    This account is an outline of a normal first labour.

Each labour is highly individual, and no exact pattern can be guaranteed.

Even normal labours vary widely, you will find that in the future a second labour is very different from a first labour.

PLEASE NOTE THIS GUIDE IS SPECIFICALLY FOR WOMEN WHO DO NOT HAVE AN EPIDURAL. Epidurals often alter normal labour mechanisms.

Be prepared to accept whatever your labour brings. It may last a day or just a few hours. Whatever happens, enjoy as much of it as you can. Set yourself no other aims.

Prelude to labour

You may notice some of the following:

• Lightening ( baby’s head drops into the pelvic cavity) 2 - 6 weeks before a first birth; perhaps just before labour or in labour with subsequent babies.
• Frequent ‘practice’ contractions, felt as a hardening of the abdomen.
• Increased vaginal mucous discharge.
• Slight weight loss a few days before labour.
• Baby sometimes less active.
• A spurt of energy in Mum.
• Wind in the bowel, sometimes frequent or loose motions.
• “Show” may be now or during labour. A plug of mucous from the cervix, may have a streak of fresh blood. This may be lost over several days even up to a few weeks before labour starts.
• Pelvic pressure. Aches and pains in the groins and tops of thighs.

How to help yourself

• Don’t overdo things; try to rest in the afternoon; simplify housework.
• Make sure that your bag is ready to take to hospital from 36 weeks gestation / for home birth, put clothes for baby and cradle to air, keep personal requirements handy in room where you plan to deliver, make sure that there is ice in the freezer.
• Protect your mattress in case waters leak at start of labour. Keep a bin liner and towel in the car.

Relaxation / positions

• Use calm breathing to relax. This will help you to conserve energy and overcome sleeplessness. Maybe take in a pregnancy yoga class.
• Use aromatherapy oils to burn, check with an aromatherapist which are safe for pregnancy. Listen to favourite music, use relaxation tapes to help you to focus.
• Continue to practise your pelvic floor exercises, and make good use of massage techniques for better relaxation.

Partner's help/needs

• Remind appropriate people at work that you are intending to take time off shortly.
• Ensure that you are contactable at all times.
• Know all the necessary telephone numbers.
• Know the route to the hospital and the parking area.  Keep the car battery and fuel topped up.
• Perhaps offer massage for both of you to reduce tensions.
• Offer diversional therapy - make some dates for after the baby is due!