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D. Stages of labor: Breathing techniques
(Detailed description is provided at the end of Class
Three.)
1) Stage I: Dilation from 0 to 10 cm; three phases
of Stage I
(a) Early: Mild contractions, up to 5 cm dilation.
Regular breathing to conserve energy with slow deep breath before and after
each contraction. Coach should check for muscle tensing and do gentle massage
if mother desires (with flat hand, center to outer body). Relaxation techniques
also may be incorporated throughout labor.
(b) Active: Moderate contractions, 5 to 8 cm dilation.
Pick focal point, concentrate on it throughout contraction. Regular breathing
increasing in speed, working into howt breathing as needed with the increase
in pain (see Breathing Techniques below).
(c) Panting: 10-cm dilation. Just as it sounds; pant
as if out of breath. OB provider may request this to help control delivery.
Practice: Caution-do not push for real when
practicing!
2) Stage II: From 10 cm dilation to birth of baby.
(a) Transition: Severe contractions, 8 to 10 cm
dilation. Howt breathing to prevent hyperventilation during contraction.
(b) Pushing: With contractions, deep breath in and
out before contraction; deep breath in and hold, bear down with bowel movement
muscles for 10 seconds or as long as possible with the direction of the
OB care provider during the contraction, then deep cleansing breath after
push to oxygenate mother and baby.
Practice: Caution-do not push for real when
practicing!
3) Stage III: From birth of baby to delivery of placenta |
