She’s Having Contractions, When Should She Go To The Hospital?
One of the most exciting times during a pregnancy is when the baby is about to come. Your heart is pounding and your mind is racing. If it is your first child you might not know what you are in for. If you went to Lamaze Class you might have some insight into what is going on. Lamaze class does try to prepare you for what is about to happen. In class you will learn what to look for when you are trying to determine whether your wife or girlfriend is in labor. However, what if you didn’t go to Lamaze Class or you forgot what you learned? You might be thinking that you as the father don’t need to know the signs. After all who better to know than your wife or girlfriend? The truth is that whatever overwhelming emotions and excitement you are experiencing, she is probably experiencing them time three. It will be up to you to think clearly and logically.
So, is the mother of my child going into labor? There are a few signs to look for when determining whether she is going into labor. Of course the most obvious sign that she is going into labor is that she is having contractions. Or is it? When she is having contractions it is important to determine whether they are labor contractions or Braxton Hicks Contractions, also known as false labor contractions. The key is to keep track of the contractions and time them you can write them down, use stop watches, or even download a smart phone app that keeps track of contractions. You must determine whether the duration of the contractions is growing and whether the span between the contractions is shortening. This is a clue as to whether she is truly in labor. If the contractions are random and do not seem to be getting longer and the span between them is not shortening, she is probably not in labor. Another sign is that the actual labor contractions will get more intense and painful.
Another sign that your wife or girlfriend may be in labor is if she starts to have an increase production of mucus. This discharge is usually accompanied with red streaks that are sometimes called “show.” The other undisputable sign that she is in labor is if her water breaks. If her water breaks it is time for her to go directly to the hospital.
One question that is asked is when she should go to the hospital. The answer to this question depends on what signs she is showing. If her water breaks it is time to go. Otherwise it is a matter of timing. You should time her contractions. Keep track of how long the contractions are, and the time in between them. Once the contractions last for 60 seconds are less than five minutes apart, and these averages go on for more than an hour. These are recommendations. However, if the doctor tells you otherwise or you feel something out of the ordinary you should consult and follow medical advice.
Experts recommend that women stay at home during the labor process as long as possible. The laboring process can take up to 24 hours or more. Being at home and relaxing will help make the final delivery process more comfortable. Until the contractions meet the critical point or her water breaks, it is good to try to stay home. It may be good for her to take a bath or to do things that will make her comfortable. Rub her back and do whatever you need to do to keep her relaxed. These things will do wonders when it comes time for delivery.