Early Labor
This is the term for when the uterus begins to contract regularly, helping the cervix soften and open.
What is labor?
Contractions in active labor usually last this long and occur this often.
What is about 45–60 seconds long and every 3–5 minutes?
This stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated.
What is the second stage of labor?
This is the third stage of labor.
What is the delivery of the placenta?
This is the common term for uterine cramping after birth.
What are afterpains?
The cervix needs to reach this measurement in centimeters before you can begin pushing.
What is 10 centimeters?
This type of pain management involves medication delivered through a small tube in your back.
What is an epidural?
This is the average duration of pushing for first-time mothers.
What is 1–2 hours (sometimes longer)?
The placenta usually comes out within this amount of time after birth.
What is 5–30 minutes?
This vaginal discharge can last several weeks after birth and changes color over time.
What is lochia?
True or False: You should rush to the hospital as soon as contractions begin.
What is False? (Early labor can often be managed at home until contractions are closer together.)
Your birth partner might use counter-pressure or massage for this part of your body during contractions.
What is the lower back?
Your healthcare team may suggest different positions for pushing to help this happen more easily.
What is to help the baby descend or rotate?
Gentle uterine massage after delivery helps prevent this complication.
What is postpartum bleeding (hemorrhage)?
It’s normal to experience this range of emotions in the first few days postpartum.
What are the baby blues?
This phrase describes when the “water breaks.”
What is the rupture of membranes?
This healthcare professional often stays with the mother throughout labor, providing emotional and physical support.
Who is a doula?
This term describes the moment when the baby's head becomes visible during birth.
What is crowning?
True or False: You can keep or encapsulate your placenta if you wish.
What is True?
This practice helps the uterus contract and promotes bonding.
What is skin-to-skin contact or breastfeeding?
This “bloody” sign often indicates that labor is near.
What is the bloody show (mucus plug discharge)?
The baby moves down through the pelvis in this phase of active labor.
What is the descent phase?
You may be asked to stop pushing briefly to prevent this from happening to the perineum.
What are tears (perineal tears)?
This hormone helps the uterus contract after delivery.
What is oxytocin?
Persistent sadness or anxiety after giving birth may indicate this condition that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
What is postpartum depression?