Facts you should know about labor and delivery

Every woman’s experience is unique. Below are typical guidelines that will help you understand what to expect during labor and delivery.

• Normal Labor can begin three weeks prior to the anticipated due date up until two weeks afterwards.
• There is no way to precisely predict when labor will begin.
• In the first stage of labor the cervix dilates and effaces (thins out). Once contractions begin, they usually increase in strength, duration, and frequency.
• The second stage of labor begins when the cervix is completely (i.e. 10 centimeters) dilated. It ends when, following expulsive efforts (pushing) by the mother, the infant is delivered.
• During the third stage of labor, the placenta and membranes are delivered.
• There are a number of methods for monitoring the fetus that may be used during labor.
• Options for pain control during labor include brathing exercises,imagery, relaxation techniques, medications, and regional anesthesia.