Transition

Transition is the third, most intense, phase of labor. During transition, your cervix will become completely dilated to about 10 centimeters. Intense contractions will come two to three minutes apart and last from 45 to 90 seconds.

How you might be feeling

During this intense phase, you may be very sensitive or irritable, frustrated or fearful. You may have generalized discomfort or pain, a severe backache, drowsiness between contractions, nausea and/or vomiting, cramps or trembling in your legs, and pressure in your rectum. If your bag of water has not yet broken, it probably will rupture during this time. You may feel very warm or very cold, be restless and unable to relax. You may feel like you want to give up and cannot go on. It is during this time that many women temporarily forget why they ever wanted to have a baby, and just want the whole experience to be over.

A crucial time for support and encouragement

During transition, a labor coach needs to accept any behavior you exhibit. He or she needs to remain calm and confident and provide unwavering support. Eye contact, assistance with breathing and relaxation, and ongoing encouragement all help.

Fortunately, transition is the shortest phase of labor, and it is a clear indication that the actual birth is near.