In latent labour

[knittingirl]

I started having contractions about 3pm yesterday. Since about 10.30pm they've been 3-6 mins apart and quite strong. I went into the
labour ward at about 1am and was a whole 1cm dilated, so came home. The contractions have been too strong to sleep, so am now shattered. Does anyone have any suggestions for how to cope with the next few hours, and keep going?
Thanks

Good news that you are 1 cm and on your way! I had a long latent labour stage and recommend showers/baths to relax when you are really feeling tense or especially tired (I know you must be knackered).

Keep focusing on your breathing as contractions intensify. If the contractions slow take it as a chance to rest, eat and drink. Don't feel disheartened by this. They will most likely pick up.

Try to stay at home where you can best relax. Low lights help and positive thoughts from others.

I found lying down excruciating but in order to rest I sat on a birth ball with my head and shoulders resting on a stack of pillows - upright and less intense but some rest this way. All the best.

You are doing brilliantly and things are happening. One contraction down is one you won't have to do again. Excited for you that your baby will be here soon xx

All I can say is try to be calm , do your breathing exercises on each contraction and don't panic or worry. The challenge with a long labour/latent phase is stamina, so your frame of mind is everything. Good luck, you'll soon have your baby in your arms.

Can you still eat and drink ok? Make sure you sip water regularly if you're struggling too. If you can doze between contractions try giving it a go. When you doze you'll become more relaxed which could speed things up. I know it's really really hard at this point, but don't worry this isn't forever. It's going to pass and then you'll have a lovely snugly newborn!!

I had a long latent labour - my
midwife got me to sit on a bouncy ball and rest my head on pillows on sofa arm in between contractions, as was too uncomfortable to lie down. It did really help, you can get so tired.

Once I got to 4cm, I progressed v quickly and DD1 was born in 3 hours. So those early contractions were doing something!

Thanks for all the ideas. I'm still at home, contractions are still going, stronger at times but not much change. Going to try the birthing ball and cushion approach and see if I can rest a bit.

Hey knitting. Just quick message to see how you are getting on and hope you are managing to breath through those contractions.

Hope all ok x

Thanks, still here! A few hours ago I felt the baby move down with a bit of a thud, and since thn the contractions have been getting more intense, so hoping that things may be moving!

oooo knittinggirl that's exciting!! Can you take some paracetamol? Have a hot bath?

Good luck!!

Yey knitting! You are getting closer. Fingers crossed it is soon for you. Come on baby knitting!

Any baby yet? Hope all is well

Hi all,

Sorry for the slow update. Ds was born last Friday evening at 8pm weighing 8lb 8oz. We stayed in hospital for a few days but are home now and all is well. Totally in love with my little man, and worth every second of the labour!

Thanks for your help :)

Great news, congratulations on your boy x