Active vs. Early Labour

We have all googled, "Am I in labour?" Only to discover we were only in early labour. But what exactly is early labour? What is active labour?

 

THREE STAGES OF LABOUR

1. Dilation/Effacement
a. Early Labour (up to 4cm dilated)
b. Active Labour (4-8cm dilated)
c. Transition (8-10cm)

2. Pushing (Baby is born)

3. Afterbirth (placenta is born)

 

Information below is from @whattoexpect

SIGNS THAT YOU WILL GO INTO LABOUR SOON

• Baby drops
• Cervix dilates
• Cramps
• Back pain
• Loose-feelingjoints
• Diarrhea
• No more weight gain
• Fatigue
• Nesting

EARLY LABOUR

• Backache
• Menstrual-like cramps
• Braxton Hicks
• Lower abdominal pressure
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea
• A sensation of warmth in the abdomen
• Blood-tinged mucous discharge(bloody show)
• Your water breaks (most often this will happen during active labour)

ACTIVE LABOUR

• Contractions that are consistent, getting stronger and closer together
• Back pain
• Leg discomfort or heaviness
• Fatigue
• Increasing bloody show
• Your water breaks (if it has not already)

 

Hope this helps!

xx Dear Heart Co.

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A little intro to Dear Heart:

 We are two Canadian Mamas with children of our own. Our goal is to offer high quality Baby & Mama products that are made in Canada, using natural materials, like bamboo and linen. All of our bamboo and linen products are made with Oeko-Tex certified fabric that is hypoallergenic, eco-friendly and a healthier alternative for your baby. We are proud that all of our products are designed and made in Canada. Follow our journey on Instagram @dear.heart.co