thoughts on transition two

Transition is the third stage of labor during child birth. Transition is generally the shortest part of labor, lasting 15 minutes to half an hour on average. However, this is also the most intense part of labor. Hormone levels are so high that shaking, trembling and shivering become its undeniable physical signs.

Transition is the time when the mother has the most emotional need. The major emotional marker is giving up, and it is in this part of labor that most women ask for medication. Some women need constant reassurance that they are ok and the baby is fine. This may be due to the overall "giving up" and feeling that she is out of control.

The "giving up" or feeling out of control may be recognized by comments the mother makes. It is not uncommon for a mother to say, "I can't do this," or "I need something." Recognize that this is not the mother asking for medication, but for help. She can no longer handle the labor the way she has been, and she needs to do something different.

God is saying no epidural! We're doing this hard core, baby! At every contraction say Holy Spirit, we accept Your peace! Our foreheads are pressed together. Be so focused on Him, your birth coach, that His voice is the only voice you hear. No whining and complaining. God is preparing you for something that's about to be birthed!