Episode 107: Supporting Transitional Labor

Doulas of the Roundtable

Transitional labor is the third phase of the first stage of labor. It is also considered the most challenging phase of labor, especially for those giving birth without pain medication.

During the transition phase of labor, contractions occur every 1-2 minutes and last approximately 60-90 seconds. The cervix dilates from 8-10 centimeters. This is the phase of labor where many laboring individuals want to quit. They may express an inability to go on. Or may question their desire to avoid pain medication.

This is often the phase of labor where a client may express, "I don't want to do this anymore. I want to go home. I can't do this. Please make it stop."

Physical signs of transition may include shaking, sweating, and feelings of anxiety or panic. As the baby moves lower into the pelvis, some individuals may experience burping or passing gas, rectal pressure, or the urge to bear down. These signs are often present in those who have received pain medication.

Join us as we discuss how to support clients through transitional labor and how why this phase of labor can present a challenge to birthing individuals.