Labour is one of those things that everyone warns you about, but somehow, no one quite explains in a way that makes sense until you're in it. If you’ve ever asked a mom what labor feels like, you’ve probably received anything from, “It’s like intense period cramps” to “It’s the worst pain of your life but also kind of amazing?”—which is both reassuring and terrifying.

The truth? Labour is as unpredictable as a toddler with a permanent marker. But understanding its stages can help you feel more prepared (or at least less surprised) and really boost your confidence. Let’s break it down!


Stage One: Early Labour (The Warm-Up Act)

What’s happening?

Your cervix is starting to soften, thin out (efface), and open (dilate). Your uterus is warming up for the big event with contractions that may be irregular and mild at first.

What it feels like:

  • Mild to moderate cramps
  • Backache
  • Braxton Hicks that suddenly feel... not so fake
  • You might lose your mucus plug (charmingly known as the "bloody show")
  • Nesting instinct kicks in—or you just want to take a nap

How to handle it:

  • Don’t rush to the hospital just yet! This stage can last hours or even days.
  • Eat something nourishing (but avoid heavy meals—your stomach might not be a fan later).
  • Rest if you can. Things are about to get real.


Stage Two: Active Labour (Okay, This Is Serious)

What’s happening?

Your contractions become longer, stronger, and closer together. Your cervix dilates from about 4 cm to 7 cm. Your body is working hard now, and so are you.

How to know you’re in active labor:

Contractions are about 3–5 minutes apart, lasting 45–60 seconds

It’s harder to talk or walk through contractions

That bath you took, it didn’t slow things down—it might have intensified them

You’re starting to really appreciate your birth plan (or regret not having one)

How to handle it:

Move around—try different positions to help with comfort

Hydrate, but don’t chug a liter of water (your bladder will not thank you)

Lean into relaxation techniques: breathing, affirmations, warm showers

If you’re planning a hospital birth, now’s a good time to go!


Stage Three: Transition (The Grand Finale Before Pushing)

What’s happening?

Your cervix is opening from 7 cm to the full 10 cm. This is the shortest but most intense phase of labor. It’s also the part where you may start questioning every life decision that led to this moment.

What it feels like:

Contractions are back-to-back and very intense

Nausea, shaking, and feeling overwhelmed are common

You may say (or think) things like:

  • “I can’t do this!” (You can, and you are.)
  • “Everyone, stop talking!”
  • “Never again.” (Cue future baby #2.)

How to handle it:

  • One contraction at a time—seriously, don’t think ahead!
  • Your birth partner should remind you that this is the peak before the breakthrough
  • If you feel pressure like you need to poop… congratulations, baby is almost here!


Stage Four: Pushing (Let’s Meet This Baby!)

What’s happening?

Your body is helping you push your baby out with contractions that feel different—more like an instinctive urge than pure pain.

What to expect:

  • You’ll feel intense pressure in your pelvis
  • Pushing might feel like relief—or exhausting (or both)
  • It can take minutes or hours (yes, really)
  • That legendary ring of fire as baby’s head crowns—momentary, but real.

How to handle it:

  • Work with your body—some women like guided pushing, while others prefer to follow their instincts
  • Try different positions (squatting, hands and knees, side-lying)
  • Rest between contractions—it’s like an interval workout with the best reward at the end!



Stage Five: Birth of the Placenta (Wait, There’s More?)

Yep! After your baby arrives, your body needs to deliver the placenta. This usually happens within 5–30 minutes after birth. It might feel like a small contraction, or you might be so busy staring at your baby that you barely notice.



Mental Prep for Labour

  • Know that every birth is different – Some labors are quick, some are long, some start with a bang, others ease in gently.
  • Trust your instincts – Your body was made for this, and you will get through it.
  • Pain doesn’t mean something is wrong – It means something powerful is happening.
  • Surround yourself with support – Your birth team, partner, doula, or whoever you need to feel safe.
  • Surrender to the process – Birth is not about control; it’s about allowing your body to do what it was designed to do.



Final Thoughts

Labour is unpredictable, intense, and—believe it or not—one of the most incredible things you’ll ever experience. Yes, it’s hard work, but the moment you hold your baby, something magical happens. You realize that every contraction, every breath, every moment led to this: meeting the tiny human who will forever change your life.


So, take a deep breath, mama—you’ve got this! And if all else fails, just remember: one way or another, your baby is coming, and you are stronger than you know!