What to Expect During the Early Stages of Labor

Annie Kuntz
5 days ago
4 min read

The early stages of labor can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. It’s the beginning of your journey to meet your baby, but it can also be full of uncertainty as you wonder what to expect, when to call your midwife, and how to manage the sensations you’re feeling. At Attuned Midwifery Service, we are committed to providing clear, compassionate guidance so that you can move through these early stages with confidence.

Here’s a detailed look at what to expect during the early stages of labor, and how you can prepare for the experience ahead.

What is Early Labor?

Early labor, also known as latent labor, is the first phase of the birthing process. During this time, your body is getting ready for the more intense stages of labor, and although the contractions are typically mild, they serve an important purpose: helping to thin and soften your cervix and move the baby into position for birth.

Early Labor Characteristics:

Duration: Early labor can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days, especially for first-time moms. It’s the slowest part of the labor process but essential for preparing your body for active labor.
Cervical Changes: During this time, your cervix begins to soften, thin (efface), and dilate. In the early stage, it may dilate to about 3-4 cm.
Contractions: Contractions during early labor are usually mild to moderate and may feel like menstrual cramps. They might be irregular at first but will become more consistent over time.

Signs You Are in Early Labor

It can be difficult to distinguish early labor from Braxton Hicks contractions or general discomfort, but there are a few signs that can help you determine if labor has begun:

🚨 Signs of Early Labor:

Mild Contractions: You might experience mild contractions every 15-30 minutes, and they may last anywhere from 30 seconds to a minute. These contractions are usually not painful but may feel uncomfortable.
Backache or Pelvic Pressure: As your baby moves into position, you may feel a dull backache or increased pressure in your lower pelvis.
Cervical Changes: If your water hasn’t broken yet, you might notice a small amount of mucus discharge, sometimes tinged with blood (called the bloody show).
Increased Energy or Nesting Instinct: Many people feel a burst of energy or an urge to clean and organize—this is a common occurrence in early labor, known as nesting.
Nausea or Diarrhea: Some women experience nausea, diarrhea, or digestive upset as their bodies prepare for labor.

How to Manage Early Labor

During early labor, you can still be relatively comfortable and manage the sensations as they progress. Here are a few tips for handling this stage:

🌿 Managing Early Labor:

Stay Hydrated: Keep drinking plenty of water and eating light snacks to maintain your energy.
Rest: If contractions aren’t too strong, try to rest or sleep if possible. It’s important to conserve your energy for later stages.
Take Walks: Light walking can help encourage labor to progress by promoting uterine contractions. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.
Use Relaxation Techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, or visualization can help you stay calm and reduce discomfort during contractions.
Change Positions: Try different positions to see what feels most comfortable—standing, sitting, kneeling, or swaying your hips can help manage pain.
Warm Bath or Shower: A warm bath or shower can be soothing during early labor. Just make sure the water temperature is not too hot, and avoid submerging yourself if you plan to have an epidural later.

When to Call Your Midwife

Your midwife is there to support you through every stage of labor. However, in the early stages, it can be difficult to know when it’s the right time to call. Here are some signs that it’s time to reach out:

📞 When to Call Your Midwife:

Contractions Become Regular: If your contractions become regular, strong, and last longer (every 5 minutes or so for an hour), it’s time to contact your midwife.
Cervical Mucus with Blood: If you notice a bloody show (mucus tinged with blood), let your midwife know.
Water Breaks: If your water breaks, call your midwife immediately, as they will want to assess the situation and discuss your next steps.
Change in Your Baby’s Movement: If you notice a sudden decrease in fetal movement or feel anything abnormal, contact your midwife for guidance.

What to Expect from Your Midwife During Early Labor

Your midwife will be in close contact with you during early labor to offer advice and monitor your progress. Here's how your midwife will support you during this stage:

🩺 Midwife’s Role in Early Labor:

Monitoring Contractions: Your midwife will ask you about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your contractions to assess your progress.
Checking Fetal Heart Rate: We will listen to your baby’s heartbeat to ensure your baby is doing well and that there are no signs of distress.
Providing Comfort Measures: If you need suggestions for how to manage contractions or make you more comfortable, your midwife will guide you through various techniques (such as relaxation, breathing exercises, or massage).
Planning Next Steps: Your midwife will help you plan your next steps and decide when it’s time to move to active labor or call in your birth team if you’re planning a home birth.

Transitioning to Active Labor

As early labor progresses, contractions will get stronger, longer, and closer together. Eventually, you will transition into active labor, which is characterized by more intense contractions that signal the beginning of the pushing stage. It’s important to rest and conserve energy during early labor so you’re ready for the more intense phase of birth.

Final Thoughts

The early stages of labor are just the beginning of your incredible birth journey. While this phase can feel long or uncertain at times, it’s important to trust the process and your body. At Attuned Midwifery Service, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from the early signs of labor to the moment your baby is born. If you have any questions or need reassurance during early labor, don’t hesitate to call us. We’re just a phone call away and are committed to ensuring your birth experience is as smooth and empowering as possible.