Contractions for first grade: Contractions | 1st Grade Grammar

Contractions | 1st Grade Grammar

What’s the contraction for has not?

Yes, it’s «hasn’t». ✅ 

What’s the contraction for did not?

Didn’t. ✅

You can also turn a contraction back into two words.

Which two words make up wasn’t?

Was not.

Great job.

The Most Common Contractions:

he is = he’s

it is = it’s

she is = she’s

that is = that’s

I am = I’m

she will = she’ll

they will = they’ll

it will = it’ll

we will = we’ll

we are = we’re

you are = you’re

they are = they’re

can not = cannot = can’t

Tip: cannot is defined as «can not«. Both are ok, but «cannot» is more common. Can‘t is a contraction of both.

Using Its versus It’s

Many people get confused by its and it’s.

Here’s how you can remember the difference:

«Its» is a three letter possessive pronoun like his.

«It’s» is a contraction of it and is. 

The robot need a battery to run. Its battery is missing. It’s not going to turn on.

Great job learning about contractions.

Let’s Review

      Contractions are a shortened form of two words.

      Contractions help us communicate more with less effort.

Contractions make your writing more casual and easier to read.

Now, practice making and reading contractions on your own.

Contractions Videos for Kids — 15 Teacher Picks

In English grammar, a contraction is a shortened form of two or more words into one word by omission of a sound or letter. In a contraction, an apostrophe takes the place of the missing letters. So, “cannot” becomes “can’t” and “do not” becomes “don’t.” We use them all the time in writing and everyday speech. You know this, and I know this, so why don’t our students know this? Maybe it’s because of infuriating rule breakers like “won’t” for “will not.” Whatever it is, it’s likely students could use some reinforcement on the topic. These contractions videos for kids can help!

Contractions! by Scratch Garden

I was way more entertained by the train smashing the letters than a 41-year-old woman has any right to be, and I suspect your students will be too. The computerized voice is a little weird, but the animation makes it worth it.

Sing along with Blazer Fresh as students learn how to be a Contraction Connoisseur in English grammar! Did I watch this on repeat? Yes, yes I did.

If You Were a Contraction

Tune in to this read-aloud of the book If You Were a Contraction by Trisha Speed Shaskan. “If you were a contraction, your best friend would be the apostrophe.”

Mrs. Frink teaches a lesson about contractions using flash cards. Lots of repetition, and it includes an “I can” statement. I like the language of “smushed” together and the way she turns over the letter card and there’s an apostrophe.

Contractions With BrainPOP Jr.

I’m a sucker for a good BrainPOP video. This one is front-loaded with a lot of explanation about contractions, from why we use them to what an apostrophe is.

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The Contractions Song

Set to Lady Gaga’s “Paparazzi,” this one’s a real banger.

What Are Contractions?

I like the natural cadence and expression of the host here, so I’ll forgive the fact that her animated mouth doesn’t match the voice-over. This one is great for older students because it’s a little less silly than some of the others.

Introducing Contractions

Another good option for older students, this video illustrates the concept of contractions by crossing out letters and replacing them with an apostrophe.

Contractions With Jack Hartmann

Is Jack a grade A nerd? Yes. Will kids still like it? Also probably yes. The rap is pretty catchy, and there’s a great part where Jack gives the two words and students get to respond with the contraction.

Contractions for Kids

This video with Ashley and Robot Mia is a no-frills option for teaching contractions, but the narration is quite strong.

A Contraction Has an Apostrophe

This is a fun educational tune from Miss Jenny. It also works backwards, starting with the contraction and telling what it means.

I’m and Won’t, They’re and Don’t: What’s a Contraction?

Another nice read-aloud! This book is by Brian P. Cleary, and the illustrations are really delightful. This is one of the few videos that addresses contractions that are made of more than two words.

Contractions Rap

Another fun one for call-and-response, e.g., “When I say ‘you are,’ you say, ‘you’re.’”

Common Contractions

This is a little too cute for its own good, but littles will like it, and it has a LOT of examples. (I’d probably break it up.)

Contractions Kids Freeze Dance

Here’s a fun, movement-based option. When the host starts the beat, students start to dance. At the sound of the ding, they have to freeze. He puts two words up and they have to say the contraction after the countdown.

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how to recognize them and what to do?

Contents

• 1 Childbirth: How to survive the contractions of the first childbirth without fear and pain?
  • 1.1 Understanding contractions
  • 1.2 Different types of contractions
    • 1.2.1 Braces
    • 1.2.2 Real contractions
    • 1.2.3 Uterine hyperstimulation

    90 005 1.2.4 Prolonged contractions

  • 1.3 How to recognize the onset of contractions?
  • 1. 4 Characteristics of the onset of contractions
  • 1.5 When should you seek medical attention?
  • 1.6 Preparing for childbirth: what to do before labor starts?
    • 1.6.1 1. Learn about childbirth
    • 1.6.2 2. Deal with medical staff
    • 1.6.3 3. Prepare practically
    • 1.6.4 4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
    • 1. 6.5 5. Communicate with a circle of loved ones
  • 1.7 What postures will help relieve the condition during contractions?
  • 1.8 What can be done to reduce pain from contractions?
  • 1.9 Mistakes to avoid during contractions
  • 1.10 How to breathe correctly during contractions?
  • 1.11 The role of the partner during labor
  • 1.12 Should I eat during labor?
  • 1.13 How to prepare the delivery room for arrival?
    • 1.13.1 1. Organize cleaning and disinfection of the room
    • 1.13.2 2. Equip the ward with all necessary equipment
    • 1.13.3 3. Ensure the availability of drugs and medical supplies
    • 1. 13.4 4. Prepare food and drinks
    • 1.13.5 5. Prepare comfortable living conditions
  • 1.14 Necessary things for the hospital ov?
  • 1.16 Related videos:
  • 1.17 Q&A:
    • • 1.17.0.1 What symptoms indicate the onset of contractions?
      • 1.17.0.2 How to distinguish contractions from false contractions?
      • 1.17.0.3 At what interval must contractions occur to be considered real?
      • 1.17.0.4 How long should you wait before going to the hospital?
      • 1.17.0.5 What can be done to relieve the pain of contractions?
      • 1.17.0.6 How can abortion be prevented?
      • 1.17.0.7 Can I be active before giving birth?
      • 1.17.0.8 What are the consequences of labor failure?
  • 1.18 How to deal with fear and anxiety during contractions?
  • 1.19 Maintaining calm and control during contractions

Find out about the first labor contractions, how to understand that labor has begun and how to cope with pain. Detailed information and advice from experienced professionals.

The most exciting moment for expectant mothers is the first birth. The beginning of the process is so unexpected that some women simply do not notice it. It is important to know how to recognize contractions and what to do in such a situation.

By definition, contractions are repeated contractions of the uterus that lead to gradual dilatation of the cervix. However, the first contractions are often asymptomatic or have rather weak manifestations.

In this article, we will tell you what signals to look for in order to understand that labor has begun, and how to respond correctly in order to protect yourself and your baby.

Remember, preparing for your first birth is the foundation for a safe and successful process.

Understanding contractions

Contractions are concentrated uterine contractions that occur during pregnancy and lead to childbirth. They occur as a result of the action of the hormone oxytocin, which stimulates uterine contractions and increases their intensity and duration as you approach childbirth.

Contractions feel like rushes of pain in the lower abdomen and in the uterine bed. They may come and go at regular intervals, which decrease as the pregnancy progresses. It is important to understand that contractions have a unidirectional movement — towards the birth canal.

Recognition of contractions is crucial in the preparation for childbirth. You can correctly recognize contractions by the periodic and regular appearance of pain that intensifies and becomes stronger over time.

Relaxing contractions can be distinguished from first labor contractions because they do not bring the birth canal closer together and do not get worse over time. In this case, the woman can change her position and take a more comfortable position to relieve pain and ease the load on the uterus.

Different types of contractions

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9014 0 Braces

This is a type of contraction that starts with more or less regular contractions, which do not dilate the cervix. They can last for quite long periods of time and can be very uneven, both in strength and in time between contractions. These contractions may then stop without inducing true labor.

Real contractions

Real contractions are characterized by regular intervals between them and gradual opening of the cervix. The intervals between real contractions may vary, but they usually become more regular towards the end of the opening phase of the cervix. In addition, contractions become stronger and more painful.

Uterine hyperstimulation

This is a type of contraction that often occurs when the baby is in the placenta. These contractions are characterized by strong, long contractions that may occur at irregular intervals and cause increased soreness.

Prolonged contractions

Prolonged contractions may start very weak and infrequent, and then become very intense. They can go on for quite a long time and have unusual intervals between them. This type of contractions can last for several days, and true labor will not begin until the contractions become more regular and intense.

• Braces — irregular, may be long-term;
• Real contractions — regular, with intervals between them, cause the cervix to dilate;
• Uterine hyperstimulation — strong and long contractions, may be painful;
• Prolonged contractions — can be unusual in intervals, last quite a long time.

How to recognize the onset of contractions?

Contractions are one of the first signs of labor. They can go unnoticed or cause severe discomfort. Each woman’s contractions begin differently, and in order to recognize them, you need to pay attention to several signs.

1. Frequency: Contractions may start at regular intervals (eg every 10 minutes) or at irregular intervals.
2. Duration: contractions can last from 30 to 60 seconds.
3. Intensity: In the early stages of labor, the contractions may be weak, but as they get closer to the end, they become stronger.
4. Location: contractions usually start in the lower abdomen and spread to the back and arms.
5. Character: contractions are often described as tight, tense, squeezing the walls of the uterus.

If you are not sure if you are in labor, seek medical attention. Contractions may be a symptom of other pregnancy complications, such as early release of amniotic fluid or premature placental abruption.

Characteristics of the onset of labor

Labor is the continuous contraction of the uterus, which is the main sign of the onset of labour. The characteristics of the onset of labor can vary from woman to woman, and may even vary in the same woman in each birth.

Frequency: Usually starts with rare and mild contractions that gradually increase and become more frequent. The interval between contractions is from 5 to 20 minutes, but during the first birth it can be longer.

Intensity: Contractions begin as mild pain, which gradually become stronger and longer. This may be a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen or pain in the lower back, which strongly resemble menstrual cramps.

Duration: Contractions lasting 30-60 seconds are counted as the beginning of the active phase of labor. This phase can last up to 12 hours for the first birth.

Regularity: Contractions should occur regularly and increase in frequency and intensity.

Each organism is unique, and the onset of labor can occur in different ways. It is important to closely monitor the condition of the woman and the regularity of contractions in order to be sure that labor has begun.

When should you seek medical help?

During the first birth, every parent faces a number of unexpected situations. Remember — it’s better to be prepared for anything.

As soon as contractions begin, a woman should start tracking the time between them. If the intervals between contractions become shorter, their time increases, and the pain becomes more intense, then you need to worry.

If pain or contractions last more than 60-90 seconds, the woman does not rest between contractions, or if she has trouble breathing or bleeding, seek medical attention.

Make sure you look after your general condition and don’t feel like something is wrong with you. Most importantly, trust your feelings and if you think something is wrong, see your doctor immediately.

Do not forget that the birth of a child is a special and exciting moment in the life of every family. After childbirth, it is important not to forget about yourself and do everything necessary for a quick recovery.

Preparing for childbirth: what to do before the start of labor?

1. Learn about childbirth

Before labor begins, it is helpful to learn about the process of childbirth, how it feels during labor, how to breathe and relax to help ease contractions. You can read books, watch videos, or take a birth preparation course.

2. Deal with medical staff

It is important to talk to your doctor, midwife or midwife ahead of time about any questions you may have about expecting a baby. It is necessary to clarify how often you need to visit a doctor, how the birth process goes, at what stage you need to go to the maternity hospital and other important issues.

3. Prepare practically

To prepare for childbirth, you need to do a number of practical steps. You need to choose a maternity hospital and familiarize yourself with its rules and policies. It is also useful to buy the necessary things and stock up on everything necessary for the child and mother.

4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Good preparation for childbirth is the transition to a healthy lifestyle. You need to lead a healthy lifestyle, exercise, eat right.

5. Communicate with close circle

It is useful to share your feelings and questions with friends, relatives who have already gone through similar situations. They can share their experience and advice.

What postures will help relieve the pain during contractions?

During the first birth, a woman may experience discomfort and pain during labor. However, the right position can greatly alleviate her condition and improve the process of childbirth.

All fours position — This position can help move the baby to the exit of the birth canal in about a quarter of women, it also reduces pressure on the sacrum and allows free breathing during labor.

Lying on your side — This pose helps improve blood circulation, reduce contractions and pain, and relieve pressure on the uterus. In addition, lying on her side, a woman can easily rest between contractions.

Forward Leaning Pose — This pose is also known as the pear pose. It helps to relax the hip joints and thus allows the fetus to move freely through the birth canal. In addition, it relieves pressure on the sacrum and diaphragm, which improves respiratory function.

In summary, it is important to remember that every woman has individual needs and preferences for positioning during childbirth. Therefore, it is important to discuss this issue with your doctor and the woman in labor before starting labor.

What can be done to reduce pain from contractions?

First labor contractions can be uncomfortable and painful, but there are a few things you can do to help ease the pain.

• Breathe properly: deep breathing can help you relax and reduce pain. Focus on breathing during contractions, taking deep breaths through your nose and slow exhalations through your mouth.
• Get into a comfortable position: One of the best positions for reducing pain from contractions is on all fours. In this position, the head is lower than the pelvis, which can speed up the birth process.
• Massage: massaging the back, abdomen and lower back can help relieve pain from contractions and help you relax. Ask your partner or healthcare provider to massage you during labor.
• Use hot water: take a hot shower or bath with hot water. Heat can help you relax and reduce pain from contractions.
• Don’t forget about medicines: if the pain is too severe, you can ask your doctor to provide you with analgesics. There are also alternative methods of pain relief, such as the use of transcranial electrical stimulation (TES).

Every woman is different and requires an individual approach to childbirth. Choose the methods that are right for you and help relieve pain.

Mistakes to avoid during labor

Childbirth is one of the most unpredictable events in any woman’s life, and many new mothers are afraid of contractions and fear not to cope with this test. It is important to understand that mistakes are possible even for the most prepared women. However, if you know about them in advance, you can reduce the risk of their admission, as well as improve the process of childbirth.

Avoid panic

One common mistake is panic. Contractions can cause anxiety and fear, especially for those who experience this process for the first time. However, panicking is the worst option. If you feel like you’re losing control, try breathing deeply and talking to your doctor calmly.

Do not ignore contractions

Do not ignore contractions, even if they do not seem very strong. It is important to know the regularity and duration of contractions in order to understand when to go to the maternity hospital. If you are expecting your first child, see a specialist to find out which contractions are normal and which require medical intervention.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Another common mistake is to feel uncomfortable asking for help. If you have any questions, doubts, or concerns, feel free to contact your mom, partner, doctor, nurse, or other medical staff.

• Conclusions:
• Contractions can cause fear and anxiety, especially for beginners.
• It is important to avoid panic, not to ignore contractions and to ask for help if necessary.
• Preparing for childbirth can help avoid mistakes and improve the process.

How to breathe correctly during contractions?

Proper breathing during contractions helps to relax and relieve pain. It also helps control the duration and strength of contractions. Here are some tips for breathing during labor:

• Breathe slowly during labor: this will help you relax and control pain. Slow, deep breathing can decrease your heart rate and reduce stress levels in your body.
• Breathe through your nose: nasal breathing puts less strain on the respiratory system than oral breathing. In addition, through the nose, you can maintain the correct rhythm of breathing.
• Concentrate on your breathing: Breathing during contractions should be your main concern. Focus on it, and try to disconnect from everything else.

Remember that proper breathing during labor is not the key to success in childbirth, but it can help you overcome pain and control the situation. If you have any difficulties, medical professionals should immediately report it.

The role of a partner during labor

For a pregnant woman, repairs are usually quite difficult and unpredictable, especially in the first birth, and the support of loved ones, including from a partner, is important. Having a loving and supportive person can greatly reduce the fear and discomfort that can arise during contractions.

Partner can focus on breathing with the pregnant woman to help her cope with pain. It can also help her create a comfortable environment, softening up harsh sounds like ringing or TV noise that can increase her stress levels. In addition, he can learn basic postures that are comfortable for pregnant women to help relax and ease contractions.

It is important that the partner supports her both mentally and physically, helping her to relax, talk to her and soothe her. He can also help her shift her attention, for example, to positive thoughts and memories from life.

Having a partner who cares for a pregnant woman can help her in the delivery room and reduce stress and pain. Communication, emotional support and just being nearby will help a pregnant woman to more comfortably endure contractions and feel positive emotions during this important period.

Should I eat during labor?

One of the concerns of many pregnant women is the need for nutrition during labor. Doctors and experts agree that during natural childbirth, a woman should not eat heavy or fatty foods, which impede bowel movements and create an additional load on the body.

However, moderate consumption of light foods may be helpful. It is recommended to eat foods that contain a lot of water, such as fruits and vegetables, as well as sweet or savory snacks, to compensate for the loss of energy during contractions. It is important not to overdo it and follow the diet that was recommended by the doctor during pregnancy.

Do not forget that each woman in labor is unique and reacts to contractions individually. Some women experience nausea and vomiting during contractions, so eating food may not bring the desired results. In this case, it is necessary to consult a doctor to get advice and help in facilitating the course of childbirth.

• Advice: Drinking enough water and electrolyte drinks during labor is recommended to prevent dehydration.
• Conclusion: Eating light and nutritious food during labor can be beneficial, but it is important not to overdo it and follow the doctor’s recommendations.

How do I prepare the delivery room for my arrival?

1. Organize cleaning and disinfection of the room

Before the arrival of the delivery woman, it is necessary to carry out general cleaning and disinfection in the delivery room. This will help ensure hygienic conditions and reduce the risk of possible infection.

2. Equip the room with all necessary equipment

Check for the necessary equipment that may be needed during delivery. These can be beds, chairs, birthing balls, pillows, disposable sheets, strollers, and more. Everything must be clean and ready to use.

3. Ensure the availability of drugs and medical supplies

Ensure that the room has all the necessary drugs and instruments that the doctor may need during childbirth. In addition, it is better to purchase all the necessary medical supplies in advance, such as gloves, masks, gowns, etc.

4. Prepare food and drinks

The parenting process can take a long time, so it is useful to prepare food and drinks for the woman in labor and her relatives. It can be a bottle of drinking water, fruits, nuts or other light food.

5. Prepare comfortable living conditions

Do not forget that the delivery process can take several hours or even days, so it is very important to create comfortable conditions for the woman in the delivery room. It can be TV, books, games or other entertainment that will help relieve pain and reduce stress.

Necessary items for the maternity hospital

Before you go to the maternity hospital, it is important to prepare the necessary things to make it easier for the mother-to-be there. Each maternity hospital may have its own characteristics, but there are a few things that you definitely need to take with you.

Items needed:

• Health insurance policy and passport.
• A set of documents confirming the right to benefits or other services.
• Comfortable clothes for discharge and during the stay in the maternity hospital.
• Slippers to avoid walking barefoot on the floor.
• Personal hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, etc.).
• Personal items for the baby (diapers, clothes, diapers).
• Cosmetics (face cream, lipstick, vegetable oil for wet wipes).
• Phone, charger.
• Nursing bra for planned delivery by breastfeeding.
• Bag for things.

Before leaving for the maternity hospital, it is best to make a list and check that all the necessary things are taken with you. Leave everything unnecessary at home so as not to burden yourself with excess weight and not take up useful space in the maternity hospital.

How to take care of personal hygiene during childbirth?

During childbirth, special attention should be paid to personal hygiene. It becomes especially important as cleanliness helps prevent inflammation and infection.

Before giving birth, you should take a shower or just wash yourself. During childbirth, it is most convenient to cleanse with water. For convenience, you need to take towels, washcloths, soap and other daily hygiene products with you.

To avoid contamination, after using toilet paper, it is recommended to wipe yourself from sheet to sheet without touching it with your hands. We must not forget about the cleanliness of the hands, which, due to increased stress during childbirth, can sweat or get dirty. In this case, you should take wet wipes with you.

Good refreshing gel lubricants that are used during childbirth to facilitate labor. Some women may benefit from the ergoflex tip, which helps maintain hygiene and prevents wounds and tears.

It is important to remember that during childbirth there may be complications and the need for an episiotomy, that is, an incision between the labia. After this procedure, it is recommended to use sanitary napkins with a natural surface.

Proper and careful hygiene will help to avoid many problems during childbirth. Do not be afraid to ask questions to doctors and trust only verified information from reliable sources.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What symptoms indicate the onset of contractions?

Contractions begin with a certain regularity and increase in strength and duration. There may be pain in the lower abdomen, back and lower back. A noticeable discoloration of the mucous plug is also possible.

How to distinguish contractions from false contractions?

False contractions are usually irregular and do not get worse over time. They often disappear after a change of position or when resting. In the case of real contractions, the pain constantly intensifies and becomes regular.

At what interval must contractions occur to be considered real?

The interval between contractions should be uniform and not exceed 5-7 minutes for several hours. Also, the contractions should become stronger and longer.

How long should you wait before going to the hospital?

You should go to the maternity hospital if the contractions are regular and their interval is 5-7 minutes within 1-2 hours. However, in case of any unusual symptoms (bleeding, severe pain, etc.), medical attention should be sought immediately.

What can be done to relieve the pain of contractions?

Various relaxation techniques and breathing exercises can be used. Warm baths and compresses on the back or stomach help well. You can also take pills or other remedies recommended by your doctor.

How can abortion be prevented?

It is necessary to observe the daily routine, eat right, avoid stress and physical exertion. It is recommended to attend antenatal classes, where expectant mothers can receive detailed information on pregnancy and childbirth.

Is it possible to lead an active lifestyle before childbirth?

Yes, being active will help prepare you for childbirth. It can be light physical activity, etymological exercises, yoga for pregnant women, etc. However, it is important to coordinate any new activities with the doctor and take care of your health and the health of the child.

What are the consequences of labor failure?

Failure to deliver can lead to various complications such as bleeding, infection, and damage to the bladder or cervix. It also increases the risk of preterm birth and health problems for the baby.

How to deal with fear and anxiety during contractions?

For many women, contractions are one of the scariest moments in their lives. But fear and anxiety can only exacerbate the situation. Therefore, it is important to know how to deal with fear during contractions.

First, it must be remembered that fear is a natural feeling that arises from the unknown. Therefore, in order to deal with fear during labor, you must first prepare for childbirth.

Secondly, contact specialists in a timely manner. The birth of a child is a very important moment in the life of every woman, so doctors and midwives should be there for you and help give birth to a healthy baby.

Thirdly, you need to learn how to breathe properly during contractions and how to relax. To do this, you can use various breathing techniques and meditation.

Fourth, it is important to understand that you are not alone. Many women gave birth before you and give birth after you. Therefore, communicating with women who have gone through childbirth can help reduce your fear and nervousness.

So, don’t panic or despair if you have a fear of childbirth. Follow our advice and everything will be fine!

Maintaining calm and control during contractions

The imminence of labor and delivery, especially in primiparas, can cause feelings of anxiety and insecurity. However, it is important to remember that every woman is unique and strong. When contractions approach, try to remain calm and not lose control of the situation. To do this, here are some tips:

• Breathe deeply, this will help reduce the heart rate and calm the nervous system.
• Ask your mother, friend or partner for support and guidance if you have forgotten any of your birth preparations.
• Remember that contractions are a natural process that will lead to the birth of your baby.
• Don’t forget to do exercises that will help build your strength and endurance, such as yoga and Pilates.

Most importantly, stay positive and confident. Think about the goal you want to achieve, and about what main force you have to become — mom! This will help you stay calm and in control of the situation.

Stages of childbirth. From the first contraction to the birth of the baby

Experienced women in labor joke: “Don’t worry, you won’t miss a birth and you won’t make a mistake!” But the young mother is still worried: what awaits her when the baby decides to be born?

First period: Labor

This is the longest period of labor. Usually at the birth of the first baby, it lasts from 7 to 12 hours.

How do you feel?

The birth process begins in different ways. Most women experience aching sensations in the lower abdomen, which gradually turn into distinct uterine contractions. The frequency and strength of these contractions is increasing. The very first contractions take place at intervals of 10-15 minutes for 15-30 seconds and they are weakly felt, immediately before birth they last 60-90 seconds with an interval of 1-3 minutes. The main sign of the onset of childbirth, in contrast to the preparatory contractions, is the intensification of sensations during the contraction. In some women, the birth process begins with the fact that amniotic fluid is poured out, and only then contractions begin.

What’s going on?

Preparing for childbirth, the cervix becomes softer. During contractions, it gradually opens up so that the baby can be born. The hormone oxytocin and prostaglandins, which are produced in response to the “Start the birth process” command, help her in this.

What is the baby doing?

Baby feels unusual discomfort. He is sensitive to the state of his mother and experiences similar feelings: if his mother is alarmed, he receives his dose of her stress hormones. If the mother is calm, then he is easier to endure childbirth.

How to behave?

The ideal birth takes place in a state of complete rest. In order for oxytocin to do its job, a woman needs to relax and turn off her head. That is why in traditional obstetrics it is customary to exclude bright light, loud sound, extraneous interference in the course of childbirth — everything that makes a woman experience stress and emerge from her cozy little world.

Usually, at the very beginning of labor, the mother wants to lie down and fall asleep — this is a normal reaction. In the future, she may want to move or take the most unexpected position: some want to stand on all fours, others hang on the back of a chair, on a horizontal bar, or with the support of a person who helps in childbirth. Obstetricians believe that a woman should follow the dictates of her body.

How about various labor control techniques such as counting breaths? Purely individual. If you want to breathe according to the scheme, well, perhaps this is how it is easier for you to relax (by performing monotonous mental operations). But don’t force yourself. The same applies to massage, which is taught in courses for pregnant women. Point out to your assistant in childbirth the area on the sacrum, the massage of which brings relief, tell him with what strength and intensity you need a massage. If you don’t want to be touched, that’s fine too.

Who will help?

An experienced midwife can provide peace and security to a woman, who will act as a buffer between the mother and the outside world, as well as calm her, instilling a sense of confidence. There are also many natural painkillers: acupressure, aromatherapy, etc. At the same time, a warm bath is an ideal and favorite method for women. In the bath, muscles relax and stress levels are reduced — this is exactly what is needed for calmness and the natural course of childbirth.

Second period. Attempts

During contractions, a woman feels detached from reality, but not so much as to “fall out of this world” completely. The closer the birth, the more detached she becomes. The duration of the push is very individual.

How do you feel?

Before that, you were lying, standing, walking, etc., but here you want to bend your legs in a fight and at the same time grab someone or something. A woman may want to squat down, she has a feeling that the chair is moving away. Many begin to make a rather loud, deep sound, similar to throat singing. A woman, seemingly weakened by long contractions, has a surge of strength.

What’s going on?

The cervix has opened and the baby begins to move through the birth canal. At this stage, the bones of the mother’s pelvis and the baby’s head adjust to each other.

What is the baby doing?

It’s not easy for a baby. Its head «squeezes» through a rather narrow passage. The skull of the baby is not hard, so it can change its shape for easier passage through the birth canal.

How to behave?

Listen to your body. Any painful sensation is a signal that the baby will be comfortable if you, obeying the command of the body, change position. It happens that contractions during this period fade for a while — this is not scary, so your body is preparing for the final chord.

Michel Auden writes in her book «Birth Reborn»: «Many women give birth in a mechanically effective supported squatting position, as it maximizes the baby’s downward pressure along the birth canal, minimizing the necessary muscle tension and oxygen consumption, provides maximum relaxation of the muscles of the perineum … A woman can choose another position: facing him, spreading her legs wide. This position, in which the woman’s legs are off the ground from time to time, is also very useful. It helps to relax the abdominal and perineal muscles, which helps the baby to descend through the birth canal.”

Who will help?

Childbirth assistant in this period supports the woman not only morally, but also physically. Even if a woman gives birth in an ordinary maternity hospital on a chair, she has a desire to try to lift the body, as if to fold in half. An assistant can support her under her back. Forcibly, on command, it is necessary to push the child out only if it is necessary to speed up the birth and the child needs help. The task of the midwife is not to demand “push!” like in a comedy series, but to give a woman an attitude like «let your child go out.»

Third period: Birth

The baby is born — this is the most joyful period of childbirth.

How do you feel?

You have absolutely no control over the process. The expulsion of the fetus is a powerful reflex that is triggered as soon as the baby is ready.

What’s going on?

A powerful surge of adrenaline makes the uterus literally push the baby out.

What is the baby doing?

He feels fear and discomfort. He expects the new world to meet him with love and tenderness.

How to behave?

Everything happens by itself. The main thing is not to start forcibly actively pushing the baby ahead of time. Let his head be ready to “emerge” and come out gradually. When the baby arrives, you will be overcome by a strong feeling of love. Let them put a baby on your stomach: admire it, hug it. This is how the strongest feeling of affection between mother and baby is formed.

Who will help?

The midwife will take the baby into her good hands. Agree in advance that you and the baby will not be separated if there are no fears for the health of the crumbs.