Labor is defined by actual cervical change: cervical "ripening", or softening, effacement, and dilation of the cervix - see Labor Detailed. It is accompanied with contractions and the rupture of amniotic fluid. For every woman in labor, these changes will happen very differently, and in their own, unique time frame.
The progression of labor is broken down into segments, or stages. These stages state what "should" be happening in labor within a particular time, what the cervical changes are, as well as what the emotional and physical challenges are during this time. The problem with this is when you learn about the stages, you begin to expect that the very same changes will happen to you as described, and in the suggested time frame! Not so.
What you learn about the stages of labor, here, and in everything else you read, are guidelines to give you a general picture of, or is a "text book" example of the progression of labor. Remember, reality is always different from what you read about, and your labor will not follow the exact course that has been written about.
So, what do you do with this information? Well, it helps to prepare you by giving an overall picture of what happens physically and emotionally during labor. The actual birthing process is the same and has been for thousands of years. What is different is how YOU labor, and your circumstances surrounding the birth of your child. The information is a guide to help you in your own personal and special experience.
Now, let's look at the progression of labor in a different way. Imagine you want to climb a mountain. It's overwhelming, but it is something you want to do. You also know, that once you start, you can't go back! You pack your gear, and you begin your journey knowing that you WILL be challenged PHYSICALLY and EMOTIONALLY. There will be times as you climb the mountain, when you feel like giving up because, you are tired, and your muscles are sore. You continue though because your dream of reaching the top is keeping you steady, and FOCUSED on your goal.
You also know, that once you reach the peak of the mountain, the way down will be much easier, and less physically exerting. In fact, you won't even remember how exerting it was because you will be basking in the joy that you did it! Yes, you will break out in a sweat as you reach the peak, but it will subside as you begin to climb down the mountain. Your friends may have taken longer to climb the same mountain, and some may have finished sooner. Some even took a different path, but the end result was the same. So what. You did it too! What you accomplished, gained personally, and the breathtaking views, will have been worth all the aches. It is an experience you will remember forever.
Speaking of "gear" - (Read pg 84 in your book) What book?
Take me to:
