Journey of labour
How your body prepares for labour
Your body is getting ready for childbirth throughout your pregnancy, especially in the last few weeks with final preparation.
The pelvis is made up of two large bones joined by cartilage and ligaments – at two joints in the woman's lower back at the sacrum (called the sacroiliac joints) and at the front symphysis pubis bone.
During late pregnancy a hormone softens and relaxes these ligaments. This gives the pelvic bones the ability to stretch and open more easily for the birth of your baby. It is common in late pregnancy to experience lower back pain, or you may notice that you have a ‘pregnancy waddle’ when walking, due to these changes.
Braxton Hicks contractions
Braxton Hicks are also called ‘practice contractions’ because they are preparation for labour.
Braxton Hicks contractions can begin as early as the second trimester. However, they are most commonly experienced in the third trimester. When this happens, the muscles of the uterus tighten for approximately 30 to 60 seconds and sometimes as long as two minutes. If you have concerns or think you might be in labour, contact your midwife or the hospital.
Braxton Hicks are described as:
- irregular in intensity
- infrequent
- unpredictable
- non-rhythmic
- more uncomfortable than painful (although for some women Braxton Hicks can feel painful)
- they do not increase in intensity, or frequency
- they taper off and then disappear altogether
if your contractions are easing up in any way, they are most likely Braxton Hicks.
How your baby prepares for labour
Your baby may begin moving lower in the pelvis, which is called engagement.
How will I know if baby’s head is engaged?
You might notice this as increasing pressure in your lower abdomen, or you might notice that breathing becomes easier.
- For first time mothers, engagement usually occurs about 36 weeks of pregnancy.
- For second-time mothers, engagement may not occur until after labour begins.
Your baby is designed for the birth process
The baby's skull bones are divided into five plates that cross over during labour, making their head smaller by moulding to fit the birth canal. Mother and baby work together during labour.
In this guide:
- COVID-19 and labour
- Preparing for labour and birth
- Who will support you in labour
- How your body prepares for labour
- Getting baby in the right position for birth
- When to seek advice during pregnancy
- Final preparations for labour