How Labor Starts | A Complete Guide to When to Go to the Hospital

Labor pains are actually your baby's way of saying "I miss you"

Knowing the true meaning of labor pains can ease your mind

When you hear "labor pains," you inevitably think "painful" and "scary."

Although the image tends to come first,

Did you know that it actually has a very beautiful meaning?

Labor pains are the pain of the baby that has been growing inside me for 10 months.

It's a message from your baby saying, "I want to see Mommy!"

Baby get ready

"Now, Mom! Let's do our best together!"

Think of it as a loving signal.

The mechanism of labor pain

Labor pains are the pain that pushes the baby out into the world.

It occurs when the uterus contracts regularly.

These contractions cause the cervix to gradually open,

This makes it easier for the baby to pass through the birth canal .

In other words, the pain of labor is felt by both the baby and the

Evidence of the "collaboration" that moms work together to create .

If you think of it as a collaboration with your baby rather than a pain,

Doesn't that make you feel a little lighter?

Know the types of labor pains

There are three main types of labor pains.

Pre-labor (false labor)

These are the preparation stages for full-blown labor. They are irregular and will subside naturally after a while.

Real labor pains

Regular contractions leading to labor, occurring no more than 10 minutes apart.

posterior labor pain


Contractions that occur after birth when the placenta is expelled.

This time, we will focus on "pre-labor pains" and "real labor pains."

We will explain in detail how to identify it and how to deal with it.

"Are these labor pains?" The true nature of false labor pains that many people are confused about

Pre-labor contractions are your body's way of telling you it's almost here

Many mothers experience false labor pains as they approach the final month of pregnancy.

I thought, "Huh? Maybe I'm in labor?"

After a while the pain subsided,

Have you ever been disappointed and thought, "What was that?"

In fact, this is a characteristic of false labor.

Pre-labor contractions are when the uterus is "practicing" in preparation for real labor .

Soften the tightly closed cervix,

This is an important warm-up exercise that will help make it easier for your uterus to open smoothly when you start having real labor pains.

Characteristics of false labor

How pain is felt


・Mild menstrual pain ・Similar to the pain you experience when you have diarrhea ・Tolerable, and you can even sleep

Pain patterns


・The intervals and intensity are irregular. ・It may occur every 10 minutes or every 30 minutes. ・The pain is relieved by resting. ・Changing position may make it easier.

Duration


- Can last from a few minutes to a few hours, or sometimes even days - Often begins in the middle of the night and subsides by morning

When are false labor contractions most likely to occur?

Pre-labor contractions occur around the 36th week of pregnancy, when the baby is due for delivery.

I often feel that,

In some cases, it can begin as early as 28 weeks of pregnancy.

This is especially likely to occur at night,

"I woke up in the middle of the night in pain, but it was gone by morning."

I often hear stories of people's experiences.

This is when you are relaxed

This is because it can cause uterine contractions.

Individual differences in prodromal labor

There is a lot of individual variation in false labor pains.

・Those who experience false labor pains every day for several weeks before the start of labor ・Those who experience strong false labor pains only once, and then experience true labor pains the next day

All patterns are normal,

"I don't have any false labor contractions, so is that okay?"

"It happens every day, but it doesn't lead to labor."

There's no need to worry.

The crucial difference between false labor and real labor

Is it true that you'll definitely know when real labor starts?

I often hear people say, "Once the real contractions begin,

I've been told that "it's absolutely possible to tell the difference between these and false labor pains," but

It's not that easy for first-time mothers.

Especially at the beginning of labor,

It is often difficult to distinguish these from false labor contractions.

The important thing is not to try to distinguish them perfectly,

The key is to have the mindset of "if in doubt, consult a doctor."

Five checkpoints to identify

1. Regularity of pain

Pre-labor contractions: Irregular (varies from 10 minutes to 30 minutes to 15 minutes)
Actual labor pains: Regular (gradually shortening from 20 minutes to 15 minutes to 10 minutes)

2. Changes in pain intensity

Pre-labor pains: Repeatedly get stronger and weaker. Actual labor pains: Gradually get stronger over time.

3. Persistence of pain

Pre-labor pains: They subside naturally after a while. Actual labor pains: They continue without subsiding.

4. Changes at rest

False labor pains: May be relieved by resting. True labor pains: Pain does not change even if you change positions.

5. Pain range

Pre-labor pains: localized pain in the center of the lower abdomen. Actual labor pains: spreading to the entire lower abdomen, lower back, and anus

Tips for not missing the onset of real labor pains

We will introduce the characteristics of real labor pains along with some personal experiences.

Pain that feels "clearly different"


"The pain was incomparable to the pain of false labor.

I thought, 'These are real labor pains.'"

(30 years old, first-time mother)

Pain that prevents sleep


"During the false labor, I was able to sleep even though it was painful,

During the actual labor I couldn't sleep at all because of the pain."

(28 years old, first-time mother)

Regular intervals


"At first, it was every 15 minutes,

Before I knew it, it was regularly getting shorter, to 10 minutes, then 8 minutes."

(32 years old, first-time mother)

What to do when you're unsure of your decision

If you're unsure whether you're experiencing false labor or real labor, try the following methods.

Wait for an hour

Record the intervals between pains and observe the progress for one hour.

Try changing your posture

Lie down or walk to check for changes in pain.

Take a warm bath

If you are experiencing false labor contractions, you may feel better (only if your water has not broken).

If in doubt, consult a hospital


If you are unsure, don't hesitate to call the hospital for advice.

[Q&A] Common concerns and questions about false labor

Answering questions from first-time mothers: "Is this okay?"

We will answer the concerns and questions that many mothers have about false labor contractions.

Q1. I've been having false labor pains for several days. Is this okay?

A. There is absolutely no problem.

Pre-labor contractions can last from a few days to a few weeks and are a sign that your body is preparing to give birth.

Rather, the presence of false labor pains

The benefit is that it makes it easier for the cervix to open during real labor.

However, it has become regular,

If the pain gets worse, contact your doctor.

Q2. I don't have any false labor contractions, but can I really tell when I'm in labor?

A. It is not uncommon for people to not experience false labor contractions.

Even if you don't experience false labor pains, you will definitely be able to feel the pain of true labor.

The pain of real labor is clearly different from that of false labor,

There's no need to worry too much.

On the contrary, since you don't have to use up your energy on false labor pains,

It is also possible that you are conserving energy for the actual labor pains.

Q3. What should I do if my water breaks during false labor?

A. If your water breaks during false labor, regardless of whether you are in labor or not,

Please contact the hospital immediately.

Rupture of the water increases the risk of infection,

Avoid bathing and apply a clean napkin before heading to the hospital.

Q4. What should I do during false labor?

A. It's important to stay as relaxed as possible.

・Listen to your favorite music ・Drink warm herbal tea ・Light stretching and massage ・Final preparations for hospitalization ・Get enough sleep and take in nutritional information

Try to conserve your energy for the real labor pains.

Q5. How long does it take from false labor to true labor?

A. There is a huge difference between individuals, ranging from a few hours to about a month.

・Within a few hours: about 20% ・Within 1-3 days: about 40% ・Within a week: about 30% ・More than that: about 10%

It tends to take longer for first-time mothers than for those who have given birth before,

This also varies from person to person.

What to do first when labor starts

Three steps to avoid panic

When you think you might be in labor, the most important thing is to stay calm.

When labor begins, it doesn't mean the baby will be born right away.

For first-time mothers, it takes an average of 12 to 15 hours from the onset of labor to delivery.

There's no need to panic.

Step 1: Take a deep breath and calm down

When you think, "It's finally started!", it's easy to feel a bit panicked.

But the important thing here is to stay calm.

She took a deep breath and said, "The collaboration with the baby has begun."

Try to look at it positively.

If you panic, you won't be able to make accurate decisions.

First, start by calming your mind.

Step 2: Record the time and spacing between contractions

Once you have calmed down, start recording your contractions.

Items to record

- The time when labor contractions started - The length of time labor contractions lasted (duration)
- Interval between contractions - Pain intensity (rated on a 10-point scale)

This record will be asked when contacting the hospital, so

Use a memo app or contraction app on your smartphone to keep accurate records.

It can be handwritten,

When the pain gets worse, it may be easier to operate a smartphone.

Step 3: Prepare and conserve your energy

In the early stages of labor, the pain is not yet that strong,

Let's make good use of this time.

What you can do to conserve your energy

・Eat a light meal (rice balls, jelly drinks, etc.)
・Stay hydrated ・Take a nap if possible ・Create a relaxing environment

Make final preparations

・Make a final check of your hospital bag ・Check your maternal and child health handbook, health insurance card, and patient registration card ・Confirm transportation to the hospital ・Contact your family and partner ・Confirm where to leave your pets and older children

Tips for managing early labor pains

Move your body lightly within your range of motion


Light exercise, such as housework or walking, can help labor progress.

Relax with your favorite music and aroma


Being nervous can slow down the progression of labor,

Try to relax.

Communication with partners


Don't keep your worries to yourself, share your feelings with your partner or family.

The true meaning of the "10-minute rule" for contacting the hospital

The scientific basis for the 10-minute interval

"When contractions are 10 minutes apart, contact the hospital."

I think most people are familiar with this rule.

But why 10 minutes?

In fact, there is a scientific basis for this 10-minute interval.

The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology

"Regularly within 10 minutes or every hour

When six or more painful uterine contractions occur

It is defined as the onset of labor .

This allows the cervix to dilate and the baby to descend more efficiently.

Because it shows a contraction pattern.

Different contact timing for primiparas and multiparas

For first-time mothers

Contact us when contractions are less than 10 minutes apart

First-time mothers take longer for their cervix to open,

Even if they are 10 minutes apart, there is still plenty of time before delivery.

For multiparous women

Call when contractions are less than 15 minutes apart

For multiparous women, the progression from labor to delivery is often quicker,

It is recommended that you contact us a little early.

Exceptions to the 10-minute rule

In the following cases, it is important to contact us early and not wait for the 10-minute interval.

Distance reasons


・It takes more than an hour to get to the hospital. ・You live in an area with poor transportation access. ・Bad weather or traffic congestion is expected.

Medical reasons


- The previous birth was quick (within 3 hours)
・Having complications such as gestational diabetes ・Breech or twin pregnancy ・Previous cesarean section

Other reasons


・A situation that is difficult to handle alone ・The circumstances of where to leave your older child ・Partner's work

Tips on measuring spacing

Here are some tips to help you accurately measure the time between contractions.

Define the interval


The interval between contractions is the time between the start of one contraction and the start of the next.

Please note that this does not mean from the end of one contraction to the start of the next.

Recording points


・Continue recording for at least an hour ・Contact the hospital if your blood pressure becomes regular ・There is no major problem if you are unable to measure once or twice

In such cases, contact us regardless of the interval.


Your water has broken (or you suspect your water has broken)
・Heavy bleeding ・You no longer feel fetal movement ・Continuous severe abdominal pain ・Other unusual symptoms

Why Labor Apps Will Change Childbirth

Reliable labor management using just one smartphone

When I heard that I was going to measure the intervals between contractions, I prepared a clock and a notepad...

You may think so, but

There is now a useful tool called a "labor app."

In fact, survey results show that about 90% of pregnant women use labor apps.

It has now become a must-have item for preparing for childbirth.

Why is it so popular among pregnant women?

5 Benefits of Labor Apps

1. Accurate recording with one tap


When labor begins, simply press the "start" button.

When the pain subsides, press "Stop" and the exact time will be recorded.

2. Automatically calculate the interval


No need for complicated calculations - the app will automatically calculate intervals and durations.

3. Notify when to contact the hospital


Many apps have a notification feature that tells you, "It's time to contact the hospital."

4. Share records directly with the hospital


The recorded data can be shown directly at the hospital,

This will allow you to provide accurate information to your doctor or midwife.

5. Sharing information with family


Some apps allow you to share your records with your partner or family.

There is also a real-time sharing feature.

3 Recommended Labor Apps

"I think I'm in labor."


A popular app that has won the Kids Design Award.

It has a cute design and is packed with pregnancy and childbirth information.

Features:

- Simple and easy to use - 24-hour display makes it easy to understand labor patterns - Emergency contact registration function

"Labor Pain App"


A popular app with over 4 million downloads.

Features:

-Large buttons for easy operation -Automatically determines when to go to the hospital -Data email sending function

"Tamahiyo Fetal Movement and Labor Counter"


The peace of mind of the Tamahiyo brand. Can also be used as a fetal movement counter.

Features:

・Advice based on the number of weeks pregnant ・Includes a fetal movement recording function ・Tamahiyo's reliable information

Points to consider when choosing a labor app

Ease of operation


During labor, pain can make it difficult to make normal decisions.

Choose something simple that can be operated with just one tap.

Easy to read display


The interval and time are displayed in large letters.

It is recommended that you know the situation at a glance.

Ad placement


The free app displays ads,

Advertisements placed near operation buttons may cause accidental taps.

Additional Features


Emergency contact registration, data sharing function,

It would be useful to have a function that notifies you of notifications from the hospital.

Preparation before using the app

It's important to download the labor app in advance and become familiar with how to use it.

・Download before entering the final month of pregnancy ・Explain how to use it to your family ・Pre-register emergency contacts ・Practice using it during false labor

7 things to tell the hospital when calling

Conversational techniques for a smooth hospital stay

Once your contractions are 10 minutes apart, it's time to contact the hospital.

but,

"What should I tell you?"

Many people may feel anxious, wondering, "Will I be able to explain it well?"

In fact, there is some "standard information that you should provide" when contacting a hospital.

If you organize these things in advance, you can communicate smoothly without panicking.

Seven basic pieces of information you should always communicate

1. Basic Personal Information


・Name ・Date of birth ・Patient card number ・Due date of delivery ・Number of weeks pregnant

It's a good idea to write these down on paper and tell your family where they are.

2. Current state of labor


-Time when labor began -Current interval between contractions -Intensity of pain (expressed on a 10-point scale)
- Time since becoming regular

3. Presence or absence of other symptoms


- Whether or not water has broken (time, amount, color)
- Presence or absence of bleeding (amount, color)
- Presence or absence of labor and fetal movement

4. Status of previous prenatal checkup


・Degree of cervix opening ・Baby position (degree of descent)
Did your doctor give you any special instructions?

5. Travel time to the hospital


・Time required to get to the hospital from your current location ・Method of transportation (car, taxi, etc.)
- Traffic conditions (possibility of traffic jams, etc.)

6. Special Circumstances


- If you are a multiparous woman, please provide details about your previous delivery, whether or not you had any complications, and any special notes such as allergies.

7. Criteria for determining urgency


- Whether you are alone - The situation of where your older child is being cared for - When your partner is due to return home

Example of a telephone conversation

Here's an example of an actual phone conversation.

You: "Thank you for your hard work. My name is ____ (full name).

I will contact you once the contractions become regular."

Hospital: "Thank you for your time. Please tell us your patient card number."

You: "I'm number XX. I'm currently XX weeks pregnant and my due date is XX/XX."

Hospital: "Please tell me how your labor is going."

You: "My contractions started around XX o'clock and have been going on for about an hour now, every XX minutes.

The pain is about O on a scale of 1 to 10. My water hasn't broken yet."

Hospital: "Do you remember the condition of your cervix at your last checkup?"

You: "I was told I was ○cm dilated last time.

(Or they said it wasn't open yet)."

Hospital: "How long does it take to get to the hospital?"

You: "It's about XX minutes by car. My husband will drive me there."

Things to consider when making a call

Apply between contractions

It's difficult to talk during labor because of the pain, so try to talk between contractions.

It is recommended to make the call yourself


Sometimes family members call,

It is safer for the person to call in person to accurately describe their symptoms.

Contact us 24 hours a day


Birth can occur at any time of the day.

Please feel free to contact us even in the middle of the night or early in the morning.

If in doubt, contact


Even if you think, "Maybe it's too early?", it's important to contact us if you're unsure.

[Q&A] Anxiety during labor and how to deal with it

Answers to common concerns

When labor begins, many concerns and questions arise.

Here are some of the concerns many moms have and how to deal with them.

Q1. What should I do if I'm left alone during labor?

A. First of all, stay calm and contact the hospital immediately.

Labouring alone can be scary, but there are ways to cope:

・Make sure to tell the hospital that you will be alone ・Contact a taxi company (use a labor taxi)
・Contact a trusted neighbor ・Request an ambulance (in case of an emergency)

Recently, there is a service called labor taxi.

Your driver will be experienced in transporting pregnant women.

Q2. What if I go into labor but the hospital tells me to go home?

A. This is not at all uncommon.

If labor begins but the cervix is not yet fully dilated,

You may be asked to stay at home.

Follow the hospital's instructions and relax at home. Contact us again if the time between contractions becomes shorter. Contact us immediately if your water breaks or you experience heavy bleeding. Call us anytime if you have any concerns.

Q3. I'm worried about whether I can endure the pain of labor...

A. Fear of pain is a natural emotion, but you can overcome it.

How to relieve pain:

・Practice breathing techniques (deep, slow breathing)
・Massage and acupressure ・Relaxation with aromatherapy and music ・Consultation on medical pain relief methods (epidural anesthesia, etc.) ・Support from partners and midwives

If you think of it not as "pain" but as "the strength to meet your baby,"

It makes you feel more positive.

Q4. I haven't started labor even after my due date. Is that okay?

A. The due date is only a guideline.

Birth between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy is within the normal range.

-Only 5% of babies are born on their exact due date
・First-time mothers often give birth later than the due date ・There is no problem if under regular supervision by a doctor ・Consider inducing labor if necessary

Q5. Wouldn't it be a nuisance if labor started in the middle of the night?

A. It's not a nuisance at all! Labor can happen 24 hours a day.

The hospital is prepared for birth 24 hours a day:

・Doctors, midwives, and nurses are always on-site. ・Nighttime births are not uncommon. ・It is important to contact us without hesitation. ・Rather than saying "I'm sorry," have a "thank you" attitude.

Q6. What should I do during labor if I have an older child?

A. It is important to secure multiple places to leave your child in advance.

Things to prepare:

・Decide the priority of childcare locations ・Make an emergency contact list ・Prepare luggage for older children in advance ・Explain the situation to older children (depending on their age)
・Family support and babysitter registration

Complete hospitalization preparation checklist

How to separate what you need right away from what you need to bring later

Packing your bags once labor begins can be difficult.

When you enter the final month,

Make sure you are ready for hospitalization so that you are ready when labor begins .

The trick to preparing is to think about what you need right away.

Divide it into "things to be brought later" and "things to be brought later."

[Most important] What to bring immediately

Keep these in a bag by your front door.

Necessary documents and valuables


✓ Maternal and Child Health Handbook ✓ Health Insurance Card ✓ Patient Card ✓ Personal Seal ✓ Cash (approximately 50,000 to 100,000 yen)
✓ Mobile phone and charger

What you need when giving birth


✓ 2-3 pairs of pajamas or nightgowns (front-opening) ✓ Underwear (postpartum shorts, nursing bra)
✓ Postpartum pads (1 pack each of large, medium, and small)
✓ Breast pads ✓ Slippers (noiseless)
✓ Basic cosmetics and toothbrush set ✓ Towels (2 bath towels, 3-4 face towels)

[After giving birth] Things to bring later

These are things that your family can bring back later.

For moms


✓ Discharge clothes (maternity or loose-fitting)
✓ Pelvic belt ✓ Additional underwear ✓ Makeup ✓ Hair ties/hairpins ✓ Donut cushion ✓ Favorite snacks and drinks

For babies


✓ Discharge clothes (for newborns)
✓ Diapers (for newborns)
✓ Baby wipes ✓ Gauze handkerchiefs ✓ Underwear ✓ Afghans (swaddling cloths)
✓ Child car seat (if in a car)

[Seasonal] Additional items needed

In summer

✓ Fans ✓ Cooling gel sheets ✓ Sweat wipes ✓ Sunscreen

In winter

✓ A jacket (cardigan, etc.)
✓ Thick socks ✓ Hand cream ✓ Lip balm ✓ Cold weather gear for babies

Important: Things to check in advance

Check what is provided at the hospital

What is provided varies by hospital.

Things to check:


・Presence of postpartum pads and breastfeeding pads ・Shampoo and body soap ・Pajama rental service ・Towels provided ・Baby supplies (diapers, underwear) provided

Confirmation of hospitalization period


・Natural birth: about 4 to 6 days ・Caesarean section: about 7 to 10 days

Adjust the amount of clothes you bring depending on the duration of your stay.

Tips and timing for preparation

When to start preparations


Start preparing around the 35th week of pregnancy and complete it by the 37th week.

How to divide the bag

1. A bag to bring with you during labor (minimum)
2. A bag for your hospital stay (you can bring it later)
3. A bag for when you leave the hospital (including baby supplies)

Explanation to family


・Explain to your family the location and contents of each bag ・Discuss in advance when to bring them ・Create a list of contacts in case of an emergency

The time and flow from labor to birth [For first-time mothers]

Physical changes and timeline for each stage

"Once labor begins, how soon can I meet my baby?"

This is something that many moms worry about.

In fact, there are stages from labor to birth.

Each has its own meaning and role.

Knowing the process will help you prepare mentally and reduce anxiety.

[Stage 1] From the onset of labor to full dilation of the cervix

Duration (primipara): 10-15 hours

Latency period (start of labor ~ cervix 3cm)

Duration: 8 to 12 hours

・Interval between contractions: Gradually shortens from 10 minutes to 5 minutes ・Intensity of pain: Gradually increases from menstrual pain ・How to spend this period: Make effective use of the time you can still move

"At first, the pain was so mild that I wondered, 'Are these really labor pains?'

But I know for sure I'm getting stronger."

(29 years old, first-time mother)

Active phase (cervix 3cm to 8cm)

Duration: 3-5 hours

・Interval between contractions: 3 to 5 minutes ・Pain intensity: Becomes much stronger ・Physical changes: Full-scale labor begins

Transitional stage (cervix 8cm to 10cm)

Duration: 30 minutes to 2 hours

・Interval between contractions: 1 to 3 minutes ・Pain intensity: Strongest ・Physical changes: Feeling like you need to push

[Stage 2] Labor (birth of the baby)

Duration (primipara): 1 to 3 hours

What happens at this stage

・The cervix is fully dilated to 10cm ・Pulling begins in earnest ・The baby descends through the birth canal ・The head begins to become visible (cephalic delivery)
・Baby is born!

"Once the cervix is fully dilated,

I did my best in response to the midwife's voice saying, "Okay, push!"

I was so moved when I saw the baby's head."

(32 years old, first-time mother)

[3rd stage] Placenta delivery

Duration: 5 to 30 minutes

After the baby is born, the placenta will come out naturally.

During this period:

・Mild contractions ・Checking the placenta ・Sutures in the perineum (if necessary)
・First meeting time with your baby

Differences from women who have given birth

Average time for multiparous women

・Stage 1: 4 to 8 hours ・Stage 2: 15 minutes to 1 hour ・Stage 3: 5 to 30 minutes

Women who have given birth before have an easier time opening their cervix,

The birth canal is also soft, so labor tends to progress quickly.

"My first child took 15 hours, but my second was born in six hours.

But the pain was still intense."

(35 years old, multiparous)

Understand that there are individual differences

The times above are just an average guide. In reality:

If early


・Even first-time mothers gave birth in about 6 hours. ・Some women even said, "It went by so quickly!"

If it takes a long time


・It may take more than 20 hours ・Labor contractions may weaken during labor ・Medical support may be required

Both are within the normal range.

It is important to work in cooperation with doctors and midwives.

Giving birth in the best way possible for mom and baby.

Mental preparation during labor

Preparing for the long haul

First-time mothers in particular should assume that the process will take time and conserve their energy.

Overcoming each and every labor pain


Rather than thinking "X hours left,"

I had the mindset of ``Let's get through these labor pains'' and clear each one one by one.

Cherish your rest time


Between contractions, make sure you rest and regain your energy.

Accept support


Don't hesitate to get support from your partner or midwife.

It's important not to try too hard on your own.

Labor support that partners and families can provide

Preparation and mental readiness for the meeting

Labor is not something that a mother has to endure alone.

With the support of your partner and family,

It can provide emotional support to mothers and make birth a more positive experience.

But, "I don't know what to do."

"Won't it just get in the way?"

Many people may feel anxious.

Here we will introduce specific ways in which we can provide support.

[What your partner can do] Support during the early stages of labor

Create a calm atmosphere


When mom thinks, "Maybe I'm in labor?"

If your partner starts to panic, it can make you anxious too.

・Take a deep breath and calm yourself down first. ・Tell the child, "It's okay, let's do our best together." ・Act at the mother's pace.

Recording Support


・Operate the labor app on behalf of the mother ・Take notes on the intervals between labor contractions ・Organize contact details for the hospital

Prepare the environment


・Adjust the room temperature ・Play music or burn aromatherapy ・Make a final check of your hospital bag ・Prepare transportation (prepare a car, arrange for a taxi)

[Hospital attendance] The role of partners

Physical support

・Lower back massage

If your child says, "My lower back hurts," try gently rubbing or applying pressure to the area.

・Hydration support

Give her something to drink through a straw between contractions.

Wipe away sweat

Wipe away sweat with a towel or fan yourself with a fan.

・Hold hands

Hold her hand during labor and let her know you'll get through it together.

Emotional support

・Breathing technique guidance

Say things like, "Let's take a deep breath together" and "Exhale slowly."

・Words of encouragement

Give positive encouragement, such as "You're doing a great job" or "You'll be able to meet your baby soon."

・Acting as a bridge with medical staff

When mom finds it difficult to talk, I ask questions on her behalf and check on the situation.

[What families can do] Support during labor

If you have older children

・Caring for older children

They do things that mom normally does, such as feeding, bathing, and putting the baby to bed.

・Explanation to older children

Depending on the child's age, explain, "Mommy's in the hospital because the baby is coming."

- Liaison with Mom

When my older child wants to see me, I connect with him by phone or video call.

Practical support

- Delivering extra luggage to the hospital - Cleaning the house and doing laundry - Preparing meals - Caring for pets - Contacting relatives and friends

[Things to avoid] Even if you think it's good, it's not okay.

What partners should avoid

・Continual "Do your best"

Mom is doing a great job. "Let's get through this together" would be better.

Talking about how tired you are

Avoid saying things like "I'm tired" or "I'm hungry."

Trying to force encouragement

When Mommy starts complaining,

Instead of denying it, they offer sympathy by saying, "It's tough, but I'm here for you."

・Make arbitrary decisions

Always check with your doctor or midwife for any medical concerns.

[After giving birth] Preparing to welcome a new family member

Support upon discharge

・Checking the preparation of baby supplies ・Installing a child seat ・Maintaining the home environment (room temperature, cleanliness, etc.)

Postpartum support system

・Discuss how to divide household chores ・Decide how to support breastfeeding at night ・Ensure mommy has time to rest

A new start as a family

Birth is a major turning point for a family.

Let's all welcome and support our new family members.

For those considering attending the birth

Prior discussion is important

・Whether you want to be present at the funeral ・From what stage should you be present? ・What to do if you feel unwell during the funeral

Mental preparation

Childbirth is a mysterious and beautiful experience, but you will also see blood and other things.

Be prepared in advance.

Be flexible

Childbirth is unpredictable. Even if things don't go as planned,

Be flexible and prioritize the safety of mom and baby.

From labor and delivery to childcare afterwards,

So that the whole family can support each other and overcome this

Let's start preparing properly now.