Although challenging, labor is a natural process. Pain of labor is one of the most important things that worry every woman about having a baby. Labor is more painful for most of the women. The labor pain differs from woman to woman. No two labors are exactly alike, and no two women have the same type of labor pain. It can also vary for the same woman in different parts of the labor and from one labor to another.
While fairly rare, complications do happen in all births. They arise before or during labor occasionally. The range of labor complications may vary from very small to deathly serious. They can occur to any woman, with any practitioner and in any birth setting. Here are some complications that are found before or during labor.
Preterm Labor
When labor starts before the 37th week of pregnancy, it is called as preterm labor. For many women, this may happen very early, even just past 20 days. About 10% of women experience preterm labor. The earlier the labor pain starts the riskier the birth. Preterm labor also increases the risk for baby. So, you should talk to your doctor about the signs of preterm labor and get instructions on what you should do.
Bleeding Issues
Postpartum hemorrhage is excessively bleeding after the birth of baby. It is more common with caesarian, but can also happen after a vaginal birth. In this case, you should talk to your midwife or about how they handle bleeding in the postpartum period.
Placenta Issues
Another complication or problem during labor can be rooted to problems with the placenta. Placenta issue can happen once labor is started. When mother's placenta is blocking or obstructing the placenta previa or cervix or when the placenta separates from the uterus earlier then the normal time, a Caesarian section may be needed for the deliver of the baby. These problems can cause maternal hemorrhage and can result in loss of blood or death for baby or mother.
Fetal Distress
Another labor complication that worries most of the mothers and doctors is the abnormal heart rate of the baby during the birth process. When the baby's heart rate is not within the normal range, the baby is said to be under fetal distress. There are some solutions for this such as changing the position of mother, giving oxygen and more fluids to her.
However, it's possible to have labor with a little pain, but it's necessary to prepare yourself as a mother by planning for coping with pain. Exercising during pregnancy can help to keep your muscles strong and toned, as well as give you the endurance you'll need to face the painful labor and delivery.
