As much as we love to *think* labor progresses in a perfectly linear manner…it actually doesn’t! It is normal for labor to have ebbs and flows. Early labor may not have very consistent contractions, or they may start and stop. There may be a natural pause as you reach transition, or right before pushing. Your contractions might feel like they really space out. We can think of these times as rest periods. Your uterus is a muscle, and these ebbs and flows of labor may allow for the rest your uterus needs. It is okay to take advantage of these restful times and find a position that is comfortable to rest in.
There are instances of true labor stalls. A first stage labor stall is when a woman has reach 6+ cm AND her water has broken, plus either: no change in cervical dilation for 4 hours with contractions OR no change in cervical dilation for 6 hours with pitocin augmentation of contractions. If you are less than 6cm with water intact, a true “labor arrest” is not able to be diagnosed because you are still in early labor.
When I’m supporting a client who feels as if they are not progressing quickly enough, after discussing how labor is not a smooth progression always and other feelings that are coming up – I present 2 options typically. The first option is to lean into the rest that is being offered. They can find a comfortable position, try and eat something, hydrate, and allow their body to relax as much as possible. This may be in the tub if later in labor and we know that we are around that transition point.
The other option I present is to try and keep moving. A few of my favorite movement options here are to go for a walk or go sideways up stairs if they are still in early labor. I also like to try a technique called “shaking apples”. I have my client go into a childs pose or “open knee chest” position. I then use a towel/rebozo across their hips and buttocks and create a jiggling motion. This might sound silly, but think of when you’re trying to shake out a tense muscle – the jiggling can help relax the pelvic floor and encourage baby to move down into the pelvis more.
I hope this helps you navigate the unknown of birth and labor with confidence!
If you need more guidance or have questions – schedule a free consult call! I am always happy to provide guidance.
With peace and love,
Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach