If a woman doesn't push during labor, particularly in the second stage, it can lead to a longer labor and potentially pose health risks to both the mother and the baby.
Understanding the Stages of Labor
Labor is typically divided into three stages:
- First Stage: Cervical dilation and effacement.
- Second Stage: The pushing stage, where the baby descends through the birth canal.
- Third Stage: Delivery of the placenta.
The second stage is crucial, as it involves the active expulsion of the baby.
What Happens When Pushing Is Delayed?
The practice of delaying pushing, known as "laboring down," involves a pause of one to two hours immediately after the second stage begins.
- Laboring Down: This allows the baby to descend further into the birth canal using the natural forces of labor before active pushing starts.
- Potential Benefits: It may reduce the overall time a mother needs to push and allows the mother to rest.
However, the reference provided states that delaying pushing can lead to some health risks.
Risks Associated With Delayed Pushing
| Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Maternal Fatigue | Delaying the active pushing phase can lead to increased fatigue for the mother, making pushing harder later on. |
| Fetal Distress | Prolonged labor without active pushing might cause fetal distress due to the prolonged descent of the baby. |
| Increased Risk of Interventions | The increased risk of interventions such as vacuum extraction, forceps delivery or even cesarean section. |
| Prolonged Labor | Labor may be longer if the baby does not descend further by the natural forces of labor alone. |
Recommendations
While laboring down can be beneficial in some cases, the risks of delayed pushing should be carefully considered. It is crucial to communicate with the medical team and follow their recommendations based on individual circumstances and monitoring of the mother and baby's wellbeing.
Why Pushing is Crucial
- Pushing uses the strength of the mother to aid in the descent and delivery of the baby.
- Without active pushing, labor might stall, and complications could arise.
- Pushing helps the baby move past the pelvic bones and through the birth canal.
When Pushing Is Discouraged
There might be specific circumstances where a doctor might discourage pushing, such as:
- If the cervix is not fully dilated.
- If the baby's position is not optimal for pushing.
- In certain medical emergencies.
In Conclusion
While "laboring down" can be a considered strategy, it's important to remember that delaying pushing for prolonged periods, or not pushing at all when it is indicated, can be detrimental to both mother and child. It is crucial for women to follow the guidance of their medical providers during labor.
