The beginning of the chidbirth process is early labor, the early part of first stage labor. Many women feel more comfortable at home by themselves during this stage. Early first stage labor can be one of the longest phases. Thankfully, it is also one of the easiest stages of labor and for most women contractions are minor inconveniences, barely noticeable and very manageable.

Physical Signs of Early Labor
A woman in early labor may have some bloody show or loose her mucus plug as her cervix is dilating from 0 to 4 cm. The cervix also needs to efface, or thin out, and move from a posterior position in the back of the body, to an anterior position in the front of the body.

Most of this preparation work takes place before the cervix begins dilating and women should not think that just because the dilation isn't going quickly that nothing is happening! Not only is the mother's body and cervix preparing for the harder work ahead, but these early, light contractions help the baby get ready for the birthing process and move into a good position.

In a mother who has given birth before, a multipara, the baby might not even be engaged or "dropped" when the labor begins. This is another important part of early labor that can happen even at home.

Emotional Signs of Early Labor
When a mother realizes that her contractions are no longer pre-labor contractions, but are getting stronger and more regular she often feels very excited. After all these months of waiting her childbirth time had arrived!

She may also feel apprehensive or nervous about becoming a mother and the labor process to come. Some women feel worried, nervous or upset so their partners can help them cope by distracting them and keeping them focused on the positive things to come.

Remember - early labor can last for a long time so if a mother can rest, eat, drink and finish up little things around the house so much the better.
Find out more about the Birth process with one of my favorite Dr. Sear's Book: