The second stage of labor, also called the pushing stage, begins when your cervix is fully dilated (10 cm wide). It is in this phase that you will forcefully push your baby out of the birth canal and it will be born.
If this is your first baby, this thrusting phase can last for several hours. If your baby needs to change his position so that the smallest diameter of his head is on the outside, it may take longer.
If you've been a mom before, this pushing phase will probably only last five to 10 minutes.
When to push-
You will feel strong contractions as your baby comes down. You will feel the pressure of your baby's head in your pelvic area and you will feel a strong urge to push. Unless you feel such an urge to push, it is better not to push too hard. That's because trying to push before that will only tire you out, and achieve nothing.
If you've had an epidural, you probably won't feel the urge to push. In this case, the doctor will tell you when to push.
Your doctor will keep an eye on how your labor is progressing and your baby's health. Seeing this, they will give you instructions.
How to push-
In many hospitals, women are encouraged to push with each contraction, so that the baby can slide down quickly.
You will usually be asked to take a deep breath at the beginning of each contraction. You have to hold your breath and tighten your abdominal muscles and be asked to push with all your might. Some moms say it feels like pushing for a bowel movement.
With each contraction you will feel a strong urge to push two or three times. Your baby will move slightly out of the pelvic area with each push. However, each time you push, your baby will slide a little below your pelvis. However, at the end of the contraction, it may return to its former position! At this time the labor will be progressing at the pace of 'two steps forward, and one step back'.
Don't be disappointed. This is normal and allows your pelvic floor muscles to gradually open up. As long as your baby is coming down a bit each time, it means you're doing it right.
As the baby descends and your pelvic floor (the muscles and other tissues that support the uterus, yoni, bladder and anus), and other tissues, there is additional pressure. In this case, you can start pushing harder and more often during contractions. While pushing, you may start making sounds or shouting.
When your baby's head reaches too low in the pelvis, you'll probably feel a warm and prickling sensation. This will happen when the opening of your yoni begins to stretch wider to bring out the baby's head. This is called crowning in English.
When the doctor can see your baby's head, she'll let you know. At this stage, she may ask you to stop pushing and take short, quick breaths. This helps ensure that your baby is born comfortably and slowly. Your perineal area (the space between your yoni and anus) can also be protected by applying this force.
The good thing is that after this the pain starts to subside a little and the feeling of strong pressure also ends. When your baby's head comes out and the umbilical cord is removed from around it, the doctor will ask you to push again. The doctor will turn the baby on his side to make room for his shoulders. First one shoulder comes out, then the other comes out and then his whole body slips out.
Tips for giving birth to a baby-
If your contractions stop briefly before the thrust phase, use that time to build up your strength.
If you haven't urinated in a while, empty your bladder. Your doctor will probably tell you when you need to go to the bathroom.
Do not hold your breath for too long while pushing. Take a few breaths and keep pushing hard. Use breathing techniques to make labor easier.
Breathe in between thrusts, so that you and your baby get enough oxygen.
Your doctor may ask you to remain in an upright position so that the force of gravity can help with the birth of the baby. Staying in an upright position may help the second stage of labor go through sooner. Also, the risk of childbirth can also be reduced with the help of equipment. If you need help changing your situation, ask for help.
Look down, where the baby is being born. This will ensure that you are applying all your strength to make your thrust. Focus on how pushing is helping your baby to be born. With each contraction, imagine that the baby is coming out to be born.
If you are too tired or have to lie down because of an epidural, lie on your left side. Your birth partner or nurse can support your upper leg. This will relieve pressure from your lower back and open up your pelvis.
In some hospitals, nurses and duty doctors call the woman in a loud voice to push her harder. Sometimes doctors also pat the woman's thighs or back so that they apply more force. Do not feel that you are not able to push properly. If you have any discomfort or discomfort, tell the doctor.
Many moms-to-be are worried that their stool may not even come out while pushing. Don't worry, most hospitals give enemas before delivery. However, if you pass stool or urine, don't worry. This is very common and is used by doctors and nurses in the labor room. They will also get it cleaned immediately and carefully. Many women don't even know about having a bowel movement!
After birth, you'll probably get a few minutes of rest and be able to see your little one. After that the contractions will start again. Now your body reaches the third and final stage of labor. The placenta, along with the membranes, will move down from the wall of the uterus and enter your yoni. When this happens, you will probably feel a strong urge to push again and the placenta will come out.
If you have any questions or concerns about labor and the birth of your baby, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.
Many hospitals also hold antenatal classes to help you prepare for delivery. This will help you make the right decisions and reduce your fears. If you want, you can also learn this from any other institution or instructor. can take
If it is not possible for you to attend these classes, you can join BabyCenter's online antenatal classes. It's free and you can watch it whenever and as often as you want.
source- babycenter blog.
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