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The transition during labor is exactly that, you are transitioning from the first stage of labor to the second stage of labor.
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It is the last phase before pushing, Hallelujah and praise Jesus, the baby is coming.
This is when you go from 7 cm to 10 cm. And girl, it is a beast, but take heart, because it is usually fast.
Transition is typically the most intense part of your labor and it hits hard. Being prepared is key to not succumbing to your fear and anxiety when transition hits you. This is the point in labor when your hard-earned focus will begin to fail and your mind loses its control.
So what do we do about it? We prepare. Understand the signs and then learn some tips for coping. (HInt: your support peeps need to read this as well.
Obviously, if you are a regular reader then you know this is when I say, EDUCATION IS KEY!
I am in the process of creating a new birth class, sadly it won't be completed until 2020. I would highly recommend you take a childbirth class to prepare for both labor and the postpartum phase of pregnancy.
Also, be sure to grab your free birth affirmations to display during your baby's birth.
Read this now: The Golden Hour after Birth and How you should protect it. You have rights!
Read now: Delayed Bathing of your Newborn is Wise
Understanding the stage is key to survival. Typically it lasts 30 minutes or less, but it can last up to 3 hours. (That is rare)
Your support team needs to be prepared to usher you through this trying time. Prep is important here people. Uber necessary.
Be sure to grab your free detailed birth plan right here!
Water is comforting, so if you can get into a tub, do it now. Being submerged in water relaxes you and your muscles, aka uterus, which is a muscle. Unfortunately, a hospital birth might damper this need. If possible ask if you can get into the shower.
Moving can also provide relief. For me, my transition during labor moves quick, so usually the position I am in during transition is the last one I am in. Get into Hands and knees if possible and ask your labor support person to do the double hip squeeze or counter pressure.
Call on this powerful technique when you need it during transition. Remember that rectal pressure I told you about? Girl, it is intense. You need to relax the muscles and not tense up in response.
This will make the transition stage go quicker. The more relaxed you are, the easier it is for the baby to move through. Think about a closed door. If you are trying to walk through a doorway but someone is closing it on your body, you can't move forward.
OPEN THE DOOR!
Recognize this stage and allow yourself to move through it. I am including some birth affirmations to post on the walls during transition. USE THEM. They can be visual reminders that you knew this was coming and it will be over soon.
Your support team is critical during this stage of labor. Ideally, they have taken a birth class with you and they are well aware of your birth plan. Knowing what you planned to do during birth, will guide them in directing you during transition.
Comment and share your experiences with transition during labor.
