Moving Through the Stages of Labor
What each stage feels like and how to pace yourself
Labor Is Like a Marathon
Childbirth has much in common with an endurance event. Both require stamina, patience, and pacing. Both are easier when you know what to expect and have people supporting you. The difference is that a marathon runner chooses to run and can choose to stop. A birthing person must go through labor to meet their baby. Understanding the stages of labor helps both of you pace yourselves and know what to expect at each phase, which reduces fear and builds confidence.
Transition: The Hardest and Shortest Part
Contractions are nearly continuous. The birthing person may feel out of control. This is where you use the Take-Charge Routine: face to face, eye contact, breathe visibly. 'This is transition. The hardest part and also the shortest. You are almost there.'