How to Know Your Labor is Progressing Without Cervical Checks or Timing Contractions

Apr 29

As a birth doula and educator, I often explain to moms that they do not need to rely on cervical checks or timing contractions to know if labor is progressing. While these methods can be helpful for some, they are not necessary. You do not need to do them to know when to go to the hospital or birth center, call your midwife, or get in the tub!

Your body has its own way of communicating with you during labor, and learning to listen to these signals can be empowering and insightful.

Here are some intuitive signs that your labor is progressing:

You Naturally "Go Inward": As labor intensifies, you will find yourself naturally turning inward, focusing on your body and the birthing process. This inward focus can help you tune into your body's needs and rhythms.
You Feel More Connected with Your Baby: You will feel a stronger connection with your baby as labor progresses. This deepening connection is a sign that your body is preparing for the birth.
You Don't Care to Speak: As labor demands more of your attention, you will likely be less interested in speaking or engaging in conversation. This is a natural response to the intensity of labor.
You Lose Track of Time: Labor has a way of distorting your sense of time. You may find that hours pass without you realizing it, as you are fully immersed in the birthing process.
You Intuitively Shut Out Distractions: Your body knows what it needs during labor, and you may naturally shut out distractions and focus solely on the birthing experience. This can help you conserve energy and stay centered during labor.
You Feel the Intensity of Your Surges Increasing: As labor progresses, the intensity of your contractions (or surges) typically increases. This increase in intensity is a natural part of birth and is a sign that your body is working hard to bring your baby into the world.

It's important to remember that you don't NEED to focus on how or if labor is progressing. Your body knows what it's doing, and trusting in its innate wisdom can help you have a more positive and empowering birth experience.

If you're interested in learning more about intuitive birthing and how to prepare for an unmedicated birth, check out my comprehensive course, Birth Academy. It's designed to help you feel confident and empowered as you approach childbirth.

Listen to your body, trust in your instincts, and know that you are capable of birthing your baby in a way that feels right for you.

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