Ask the Expert Series: How to Identify Signs of Labour?

Every labor is unique, and what your partner needs may change throughout the process. Open communication is key. Ask her how you can best support her and be responsive to her cues and requests. Your presence, support, and love can make a world of difference in her labor and childbirth experience.

Cervical dilatation, also known simply as "dilation," is the opening or widening of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vaginal canal. Cervical dilation is a crucial aspect of the labor and childbirth process. As labor progresses, the cervix goes through a series of changes, including effacement (thinning) and dilation, to prepare for the passage of the baby through the birth canal. The cervix starts out long, firm, and closed during most of pregnancy. As labor approaches and contractions become more frequent and intense, the cervix undergoes 1) effacement (thinning and shortening of the cervix), followed by 2) dilation (measured in centimeters (cm) and indicates how much the cervix has opened or widened). Full cervical dilation is typically considered to be 10 cm, which is wide enough to allow the baby's head to pass through the cervix and enter the birth canal.

Controlling your breathing during labor is an essential part of managing pain and staying as relaxed as possible. Proper breathing techniques can help you stay calm and focused, conserve energy, and provide you with a sense of control. Unfortunately, such techniques are beyond the scope of todays topic and best address in an in-person setting to practice and rehearse such breathing techniques. Do contact your hospital's antenatal parent craft centres for such classes.

It's essential to differentiate between Braxton Hicks contractions and contractions associated with labor. Braxton Hicks contractions are typically irregular and go away with rest or a change in activity, while labor contractions become regular and more intense over time. Use a timer or contraction tracking app to monitor the frequency and duration of your contractions. This information will help determine if you're entering active labor. If you believe you are in labor, contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital as advised. If your contractions are not yet regular and intense, resting or taking short naps can be helpful. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness exercises. Practice slow, deep breathing to help you manage pain and tension during contractions. Inhale deeply through your nose, exhale slowly through your mouth, and focus on your breath. These can help you manage discomfort and reduce stress. (1/2)

The mucus plug, also known as the cervical mucus plug or simply "the plug," plays a protective role during pregnancy. It's a thick, gel-like substance that fills the cervix and acts as a barrier to help prevent bacteria and other potentially harmful substances from entering the uterus, where the developing baby is located.

If you feel a gush or continuous slow drip of liquid from your vagina, this could mean that your water has broken. If your water breaks, the clock is ticking, and labor should generally progress within 18 hours of your water bag breaking to minimise the risk of infection. Given the relative accessibility to quality healthcare in Singapore, you should head to the hospital you intend to deliver at and have a healthcare professional assess for signs of labour.