What to expect if you are in established 1st stage of labour at home for homebirth:
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If your caregiver has been dropping in at different times during the prelabour, then they will come and remain with you now. |
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They will usually ask you if you have been drinking regularly, and when you last passed urine. |
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Your caregiver will check your baby's heart rate and vaginal discharge on arrival and then every 1/2 an hour. |
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Your blood pressure, pulse and temperature are checked on arrival and then every 2 hours. |
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You may be offered an internal vaginal examination to measure cervical opening (or dilation). This is usually at your discretion, unless the caregiver is concerned, and needs to know your progress. |
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If the waters are heavily meconium stained or the baby's heart rate is too low or high, they may suggest you transfer to the hospital for continuous monitoring of the baby's heart rate. |
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An abdominal palpation may not be done, if your caregiver has examined you in the last few days and is aware of the baby's position (unless the baby has been quite mobile). |
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Your caregiver will observe you during some contractions to get in tune with how you are and may suggest heat packs, a shower, a bath or different positions if you are looking lost or unsure. |
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If you are feeling fine and appear to be coping and accepting of the labour, then your caregiver will sit back and simply 'be there' unless you direct them otherwise. |
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If this is your second or subsequent baby, your caregiver will prepare for the baby's arrival towards the end of 1st stage, as the pushing phase may be quicker than with your first birth. |