Labour and Birth

No two experiences of labour are exactly the same. While every pregnancy follows its own path, understanding the signs of labour, how labour progresses and what to expect during birth can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Whether you’re in your third trimester, approaching your due date or planning ahead, knowing the difference between normal pregnancy changes and true labour symptoms helps you make informed decisions while staying flexible if your birth plan shifts. With Dr Joseph, every patient receives personalised, evidence-based care focused on the safest possible outcome for mother and baby.

One of the most common questions expectant parents ask is how to recognise the early signs of labour.

During late pregnancy, your body naturally prepares for birth, but not every symptom means labour has begun. False labour, often called Braxton Hicks contractions, can cause tightening across the abdomen but typically stays irregular and settles with rest or hydration.

True labour is usually characterised by:

• Regular, increasingly intense contractions
• Water breaking (rupture of the membranes)
• Lower back discomfort or pelvic pressure
• Cervical changes that continue over time
• Contractions becoming closer together and lasting longer

Many patients also ask where contractions are felt. While every woman experiences them differently, contractions are commonly felt across the lower abdomen, lower back or pelvis, often radiating around the body as labour pain intensifies.

Every birth follows a natural pattern, though the timing varies between pregnancies.

First stage of labour: cervical dilation

The first stage begins once regular contractions start causing the cervix to soften, thin and dilate. This stage covers both early labour and active labour, when dilation progresses more rapidly. Staying mobile where appropriate, keeping hydrated and using breathing techniques can help manage pain throughout this stage.

Second stage of labour: birth of your baby

The second stage begins once the cervix is fully dilated. During this phase, you’ll actively push as your baby moves through the birth canal. Depending on your pregnancy and your baby’s condition, this may result in a vaginal birth, though some pregnancies require an assisted delivery or caesarean section if circumstances change.

Third stage of labour: delivering the placenta

The third stage occurs after your baby is born and involves delivery of the placenta. This stage is usually much shorter and is carefully monitored to minimise bleeding and support your recovery.

The answer varies considerably depending on whether this is your first baby, your baby’s position, whether labour begins naturally and the overall course of your pregnancy.

Some women experience spontaneous labour, where contractions begin without intervention, while others may require induced labour if continuing the pregnancy presents greater risks. Your obstetrician will monitor your labour progression, your baby’s wellbeing and your response throughout, adjusting your care plan as needed.

Many parents begin preparing for birth around 26 weeks, though planning can start earlier. As you move towards full-term pregnancy, discussions with your obstetrician may include:

• Your preferred birth plan
• Pain management options, including an epidural
• Your baby’s position before labour
• Signs indicating when to go to hospital
• What to expect if labour starts before your due date

Planning is valuable, but flexibility matters. Labour can develop differently than expected, and Dr Joseph works closely with every patient to ensure they understand their options and feel prepared for a safe birth experience.

Understanding the signs of labour and its stages helps you prepare, but every birth is unique. Labour may begin naturally or require medical support, progress quickly or slowly, and your original birth preferences may need to evolve based on what is safest for you and your baby.

Dr Joseph can provide personalised care throughout pregnancy to ensure you have expert guidance at every stage, from recognising the first contractions through to welcoming your baby into the world.