For some women, labor goes from nothing to everything in a very short time. But unfortunately for many, early labor can last hours or even days.
Early labor is generally considered being less than 4 cm dilated (though recently it has been discussed that active labor may not actually start until 6 cm). During early labor you may or may not know you’re in actual labor and though contractions will come consistently, they are usually more of a nuisance or inconvenience though generally not unbearable.
It is generally recommended that mommies stay home through this early part of labor before heading to the hospital, birth center or calling for a homebirth midwife. So what’s a mommy to do during those hours or days of wondering if/when baby will be here?
If possible, go about normal life. With Doodle, my contractions started while the girls and I were getting haircuts. Then Honeybun had ballet class so I took them to that. Then my parents came over for dinner, which I cooked. It wasn’t until the girls were in bed and my parents were gone that things picked up and I started into active labor which didn’t leave me a lot of time to worry about how to stay busy during early labor. Pipsqueak wasn’t much different with contractions starting late afternoon and not picking up until bedtime so I was able to just finish the day as usual.
But if you do find yourself with some time to pass during early labor, here’s a few ideas:
Take a walk
Not only is walking good to get labor to pick up, it may be the last time for a few days/weeks that you can or will want to be active, take advantage of the fresh air!
Cook (and eat!)
You know all those freezer meals you didn’t have time to make for after baby comes? Why not while you’re waiting for him/her to appear? Also be sure to eat what sounds good, especially protein, in order to sustain your energy during active labor and delivery when you may not be allowed to eat (generally only a problem if you plan to deliver at the hospital).
Do something fun
Go to the movies or go shopping or go out to eat or play mini golf or go to the beach. Do something you really enjoy not because you can’t after baby comes but because it will be more difficult and you may not feel up to it for a while.
Be intimate with your partner
I’m not saying you have to go all out, but just a little cuddling or kissing. Not only does this type of interaction release oxytocin (which strengthens labor), it also releases endorphins which are the “feel good” hormones that help make later labor more tolerable. So why not take advantage of what may be the last opportunity for some one-on-one closeness with your partner for a while (though you’ll both love those baby cuddles too!) And if you feel like more than a little cuddling, go for it (just be wary of too much down-south action if your water has broken!)
Try to rest and relax
This is probably the hardest but most important. Even if your contractions aren’t terribly strong or bothersome, the anticipation of baby’s arrival can cause some major insomnia but getting a little rest before the hard work starts and you’re shoved into life with a newborn is sooo important! So even if you can’t sleep, take some time to lounge, rest, breathe and just relax.
