The Stages of Labour: Stage 1 - Early (Latent) Labour

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by midwife Erica Spessot as they continue their six-part series exploring the stages of labour, right through to your baby’s Birth Day.This episode focuses on the early (latent) phase of the first stage of labour. It explores the lead-up to pushing, which can begin days- or even weeks- before birth, as your body prepares and starts giving you signs of what’s to come.Topics covered in this episode include:NestingBraxton Hicks contractionsPrioritising self-careChanges to the cervix (thinning and shortening)Mucous plug and dischargeKey hormones, including oxytocin and melatoninContractionsOther symptoms that may occur during this stageWhen to contact your healthcare provider for adviceStay tuned for the next episode, where Rangi and Erica take a deep dive into the next phase of Stage 1- Active Labour - so you know what to expect every step of the way.