Pregnancy and childbirth are monumental events in a woman’s life. As the due date approaches, expectant mothers may feel a natural urge to push as they anticipate the arrival of their baby. However, it’s important to understand that pushing before labor can pose risks for both the mother and the baby. In this article, we will explore what happens if you push before labor, why this might occur, and the potential risks associated with premature pushing during pregnancy.
The Natural Course of Labor and the Need to Wait
Labor is a process that involves a series of stages, and it is important for a woman to allow her body to go through each stage properly before attempting to push. Understanding the natural course of labor is key to recognizing the importance of waiting for the appropriate moment to push. The three main stages of labor are:
Stage One: Early Labor – This is when contractions start and the cervix begins to dilate. The first stage can take several hours, and the contractions may become more intense as labor progresses.
Stage Two: Active Labor and Pushing – This is when the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters, and the baby begins to move through the birth canal. The urge to push typically becomes strong during this stage, and this is the time when pushing is both encouraged and necessary.
Stage Three: Delivery of the Placenta – After the baby is born, the placenta is delivered. This stage occurs after the baby is out, and it generally takes place relatively quickly.
Pushing before the cervix is fully dilated or before labor has reached the second stage can result in complications and other risks.
Why Do Some Women Feel the Urge to Push Early?
It is not uncommon for women to feel an urge to push even before they are fully dilated or ready for the second stage of labor. This feeling, known as the “urge to push,” is often triggered by intense contractions and pressure in the pelvic area. Some women may mistakenly interpret this sensation as an indication that it is time to push, even though they are not fully dilated.
There are several reasons why this might happen:
1. Premature Cervical Dilation
In some cases, the cervix may begin to dilate earlier than expected. This can create the sensation of needing to push, even if the cervix has not reached the necessary 10-centimeter dilation. Women may feel strong contractions in the early stages of labor that lead them to feel like pushing would be effective, but this is often premature and counterproductive.
2. Intense Contractions
Some women experience very intense contractions during early labor, especially if their bodies are responding quickly to the onset of labor. These contractions can put pressure on the pelvic floor, leading to the sensation of needing to push. However, until the cervix is fully dilated, pushing should not occur.
3. Panic or Anxiety
The onset of labor can be a stressful time, especially for first-time mothers. Fear or anxiety about the delivery process may lead some women to panic and attempt to push prematurely. Anxiety can create a sense of urgency, and a woman may feel that pushing is the best course of action to alleviate the pressure or pain.
4. Fetal Position and Pressure on the Pelvic Area
The position of the baby can also influence the sensation of needing to push. If the baby is in a position that places pressure on the mother’s pelvic area, it may cause an instinctual feeling of needing to push. However, even in this case, it is important to wait for full dilation before attempting to push.
What Happens if You Push Before Labor?
Pushing before labor has reached the appropriate stage can have various consequences. While the act of pushing itself is natural, it should be reserved for the second stage of labor when the cervix is fully dilated. Premature pushing can cause complications for both the mother and the baby. Some of the potential risks include:
1. Cervical Injury
Pushing before the cervix is fully dilated can cause injury to the cervix. The cervix is not designed to withstand the pressure of pushing until it has fully opened to 10 centimeters. If a woman pushes before this time, it could lead to cervical tears, which may require surgical repair and could result in bleeding or other complications.
2. Prolonged Labor
Attempting to push prematurely can lead to prolonged labor, as the cervix may become swollen or damaged from the early pushing attempts. When the cervix is not fully dilated, pushing can cause it to close up or become less efficient in its progress. This can make labor longer and more painful, increasing the likelihood that medical intervention (such as a cesarean section or forceps delivery) will be necessary.
3. Fetal Distress
Premature pushing can cause fetal distress, as pushing too early can create unnecessary pressure on the baby. The baby’s oxygen supply may be compromised if the mother is not fully dilated, potentially leading to a decrease in the baby’s heart rate or other complications. Prolonged or uncoordinated pushing may also lead to issues such as umbilical cord prolapse or cord compression, which can be dangerous for the baby.
4. Increased Risk of Episiotomy or Perineal Tears
Pushing before labor reaches the appropriate stage increases the risk of perineal tears or the need for an episiotomy (a surgical cut made in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening). If the cervix is not fully dilated, the tissues in the vaginal area may not be ready for delivery, which can cause tearing or necessitate an episiotomy to accommodate the baby’s passage. These interventions may lead to longer recovery times and an increased risk of infection.
5. Increased Risk of Maternal Fatigue
Early pushing can be exhausting for the mother, especially if labor is prolonged as a result. Premature pushing can cause the mother to exert unnecessary energy and potentially lead to fatigue, which can hinder the ability to push effectively when the cervix is finally fully dilated. Exhaustion can also increase the likelihood of requiring additional interventions, such as pain relief or forceps assistance.
How to Manage the Urge to Push During Early Labor
If you are in early labor and feel the urge to push, it is important to resist the temptation to do so before reaching full dilation. Here are some strategies for managing the urge to push:
1. Breathing Techniques
Focus on controlled breathing during contractions. Slow, deep breaths can help manage the intensity of the urge to push and help relax the pelvic area, allowing the cervix to continue dilating.
2. Positioning
Changing positions can help relieve the pressure on the pelvic area. Lying down, standing, or swaying may ease discomfort and help you feel more in control of the situation. Your healthcare provider or midwife may guide you in finding positions that help you avoid the urge to push prematurely.
3. Distraction Techniques
Distracting yourself with calming techniques, such as listening to music, visualization, or focusing on the environment, can help take your mind off the urge to push and allow your body to naturally progress through the stages of labor.
4. Trusting Your Care Team
Your healthcare provider or midwife is there to guide you through the process. Trust their expertise and follow their advice. They will monitor your progress and provide support to help you avoid pushing prematurely.
Conclusion
While the urge to push is a natural part of the birthing process, it is crucial to wait until your cervix is fully dilated and the second stage of labor begins. Pushing before labor has reached the appropriate stage can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. It can cause cervical injury, fetal distress, prolonged labor, and increased risk of tearing or episiotomy. Understanding the importance of waiting for the right time to push, managing the urge, and trusting your care team are essential to ensuring a safer and more effective delivery. Always remember that your healthcare provider will guide you through the process and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
You Might Be Interested In:
