Transition labor is the last part of the first stage of labor and it comes right before the pushing stage. To women who have not delivered babies before, it is very powerful and scary because it escalates so quickly from all the previous stages of labor. Learning about transition labor will help you get prepared for delivery.

Transition labour is the phase where the cervix finishes dilating from around 7–10 centimetres. It marks the end of early labour and the beginning of the final stage before delivery. According to the NHS, labour is divided into stages, and the transition phase is the most intense part of cervical dilation before pushing begins. This stage is often short compared to earlier labour but can feel significantly more intense.

What Does Transition Labour Feel Like?

For first-time mothers, the sensation of transition labour is an abrupt change in the strength and frequency of contractions. The contractions are very frequent and short breaks exist in between each contraction. This period can be described by a variety of terms such as:

•   Harsh pain felt at the pelvic area and lower back
•   Painful cramps which do not subside and occur   continuously
•   Swaying motion, nausea, and feeling hot
•   Mental distress and overwhelming sensations
•   Felling like the labour process is too much or uncontrollable

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that the degree of pain during labour differs significantly, yet transition labour is identified as the hardest phase due to the fast cervix dilation.

Why Transition Labour Feels So Intense

Labour during the transition stage is physically demanding since the body is undergoing a process of fast dilation. Moreover, hormonal changes also take place during this period, impacting the physical sensation as well as the emotions.

First time mothers undergo a lot of emotions while labouring. They may feel scared, irritated, or even seek assurance at this point. It is quite natural, and this may indicate that the body is ready for the next phase of labor.

According to the Mayo Clinic, labour pains are caused due to physical and hormonal reactions. Transition labour is normally the shortest phase, which typically ranges between 15 minutes and 2 hours. Women giving birth for the first time tend to endure this process for a more extended period than women who have previously delivered babies. Transition labour might be the most strenuous due to rapid contraction intervals.

Coping with Transition Labour

While transition labor may seem like a difficult period, it is possible to cope with it. Maintaining your attention on breathing methods, repositioning yourself, and having the assistance of your birth companion or midwife can be beneficial. According to the NHS, the use of movements, breathing, and relaxation techniques such as massage therapy or water may assist you in coping with labor pains. Emotional support from your companion also plays a crucial role in transition labor.

Questions And Answers

Is transition labour the most painful period in the process of child birth?

Although transition labour is the most painful stage as contractions are the hardest and closest in this phase, every woman has her own level of sensitivity regarding pain and she may experience labour pain differently.

What are the signs of transition labour?

The signs of transition labour include powerful contractions that are very close one to another, high pelvic pressure, shakes, nausea, inability to speak when having contractions.

How long will transition labour take me as a first time mum?

Transition labour may take up to 15 minutes to 2 hours, but in some cases it is even shorter or longer.

What am I supposed to do in transition labour?

Your priorities are breathing techniques, changing positions, relaxation and reliance on your partner and midwife advice.

Does this mean that delivery is coming near?

Indeed, transition labour precedes pushing labour stage which means delivery will not be far away.