Been in labour for 12 hours...

[afrikat]

Started with contractions at 4pm yesterday. By 7pm they were every 5 minutes or so, and haven't increased in frequency since. I feel like I am 'stalled' - is this normal?? I am not sure how well I am dealing with the pain - it's much worse than I expected! Exhausted and trying to rest between contractions but only got 5 minutes so not getting much rest...

It's fairly normal I'd say, is it your first baby? Where are you, at home?

First baby and yes, still at home.

Are you ready to go in for some pain relief yet? If the pain is difficult you should you know.

It sounds like you are doing very well.

If you are not coping with the pain please go to the hospital.

How is your dh/partner supporting you?

Are you moving around? Walk up and down the stairs is a good way to get things moving, or a bounce on the ball (if you have one). Are you planning a home birth, or heading to hospital / MW les unit?

Good luck. Each contraction is one you won't have to do again, and takes you closer to your baby!

i kept moving to keep my contractions moving along do you have a birthing ball? good luck

Update: went into hospital at 6am and was 4cm. Started on gas and air and was 9cm by 8am (midwife wouldn't believe I wanted to push!) and he was out by 8.50 :)

Labour was much more intense than I anticipated (sounds silly I know) but my word it was worth it. Currently got my snuggle sniffly newborn on my chest after the most amazing day ever.

Congratulations!

Congratulations :)

Thanks :) can't believe he is finally here!

Congratulations!
Wow it sounds like things moved quickly once you got to hospital, the midwife probably wasn't expecting it to be so quick as it was your first one.
Enjoy!

Oh brilliant news! Congratulations. Was wondering how you got on as I read your post when I couldn't sleep the other night. Enjoy your little bundle

Congratulations!

You sound brave-seriously.

Enjoy cuddling up with your little one.

Thanks guys. Got back from hospital yesterday and loving having our LO home. Currently cuddled up in bed wondering how it is possible to love one tiny little person so much!

Congratulations! Enjoy every minute!
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