The contractions in the active 1st phase usually become longer (and more frequent), or they may be similar in pattern to the early 1st phase. The difference here is normally the intensity of them, in that they are stronger and usually take more of the woman's energy to deal with them.
Active 1st phase contractions may present as:
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Being strong, regular contractions coming every 2, 3 or 4 minutes, and lasting more than 45 seconds (but less than 70 seconds). |
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Being a combination of strong and mild contractions, coming from 2 to 7 minutes apart, with every second contraction being stronger than the ones in between. It is not uncommon for the stronger contractions to follow a longer break, and the milder contractions to come soon after the strong one. |
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Being very painful, and at times making the woman wonder how much longer she can do this for. Some women describe them as "Bringing you to your knees", literally! |
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Demanding the woman's full attention, being unable to talk during a contraction. |
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Turning the woman's focus inward, with breathing becoming deeper as she needs to go deeper into herself. (You are more likely to need your partner or support person with you now.) |
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The contractions stopping, while on the way to the hospital or on arrival. Moving from home to the birthplace, (and being anxious or excited) can release adrenaline hormones, capable of slowing, or stopping, contractions. For many women, if they are given an hour or so to resettle into their birthing environment, the contractions will often return to their previous pattern. Often setting up the room comfortably, eating or drinking something and waiting a while will see the contractions return, as the woman relaxes. |
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The contractions stopping, but not restarting. If this happens you may be presented with the options of:
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Going back home until the contractions restart. |
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Being able to rest and 'wait and see'. The lull may be a natural resting phase in your labour. |
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Being induced or augmented by breaking the waters or putting up an oxytocin drip. |
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