Transition from dilation to pushing

The last part is often the toughest. It’s getting close now. Your baby is descending into the pelvis, putting more pressure on your anus. This feels like “the urge to push” or a “bowel movement feeling.” You may also start losing more mucus and blood. However, you are not fully dilated yet, and you cannot start pushing.

During this phase, it may help to stand under a warm shower or take a warm bath if possible. We will advise you on this. Changing positions is often helpful, such as leaning over a table or lying on your side. Firm massage of the (lower) back is often soothing for many women, and it also helps some women make sounds. During the last 2 centimeters of dilation, from 8 to 10 centimeters, you often feel restless and have the feeling that you can no longer endure it. This is also known as the transition phase. Many women find this final stage the toughest. The contractions are now powerful and painful. They typically come every 2 minutes and last for a minute.

Pushing

At some point, you will be fully dilated, 10 centimeters. You usually lose more blood and have an uncontrollable urge to push. Pushing typically lasts about 1 hour for a first baby. It can be much faster for a second or subsequent baby! Take a position that feels comfortable for you. We regularly listen to your baby’s heartbeat to monitor whether he or she is doing well.

During delivery, the baby’s head gradually turns further into the pelvis. We sometimes say that with each push, the baby’s head moves 3 steps forward and 2 steps back, meaning it progresses very gradually. In the first part of pushing, you won’t be able to see anything on the outside, which is normal. Over time, you’ll see more of the baby’s head and feel more pressure on the lower part of your body. After the head is born, the body often follows in the same contraction or the next one. We’re used to putting your baby on your belly. The great reward for your hard work! We wait for the umbilical cord to stop pulsing. Then, your partner or you can cut the cord. Your baby will stay on your belly, covered with a cloth and a hat to keep warm: now you can get to know each other better and enjoy each other’s company! We believe it’s important for your baby to lie with you for about an hour, as this helps with initiating breastfeeding and the bonding process between you both. Of course, if you have other wishes, we will also listen to them.