[uwsider]

Trying to educate myself about the stages of labor.. I recall reading that you should never tell a laboring woman *not* to push if she feels the overwhelming urge to push. On the other hand, I've read (Stages of labor: Baby, it's time! - MayoClinic.com) that health care providers may ask you not to push despite feeling the urge.

In your experience, what's the right approach?

Thanks
CT

[Deb]

There are a few instances where you really do not want a laboring woman to push even when she feels the urge to do so. The first is, if there is still some lip of the cervix left. Sometimes women feel the premature urge to push and if done too early it can actually cause swelling to the remaining cervix.

The other time would be at the very end when the head is crowning and the women is experience what is called "the ring of fire." You would not want to push through this stage. Instead, it is advised to let the head stay where it is and stretch out the perineum. Often at this time, the doctor or midwife is supporting the perineum; some care providers apply oil, lubricant, or a warm compress to aid in the stretching of the tissue and muscle. I advise my clients to "diffuse the breath." Or blow the breath out instead of bearing down.

I hope that clarifies the final stage of labor.

Happy birth!

[uwsider]

Thanks Deb! Great explanation.