How long do labor pains last?

Contractions occur classically in the 36th week of pregnancy. The duration of these contractions is about 20-60 seconds. They are often accompanied by a sudden shooting pain, while other women feel only a slight pulling sensation.

There is little difference in the duration of the down-draughts and the real contractions that induce the final birth. It is therefore important for the expectant mother to pay attention to the intervals at which the contractions occur. Real contractions, that introduce the birth, occur in the minute-cycle and become increasingly stronger.

Countersunk-birth-pains however occur very irregularly over the day. The duration of the sink-births can be sometimes shorter and sometimes somewhat longer. However, the intensity of the down pains can be reduced by relaxing baths or lying down.

Pain during labour pains

Contractions usually occur in the 36th week of pregnancy and are very important for a birth. They ensure that the baby comes out of the mother’s belly (abdomen) towards the small pelvis. This makes the birth easier, as the baby is already in the correct position.

However, low labor pains are associated with pain, which can be very uncomfortable for the expectant mother. In general, the pain is minor compared to that of real contractions. Nevertheless, the woman can suffer a lot from the pain of down pains.

In this case it helps especially if she tries to relax. A warm bath can help to relax the muscles and cramps. A hot water bottle can also help the expectant mother to relax and the pain to subside.

In preparation courses, pregnant women also learn special breathing exercises that can help to ease the pain. Fresh raspberry leaf tea can also help to ease the pain of the sink pains. Additional gentle massages also help to relax the muscles.

In general, the pain of down pains is different from the pain during a real contraction. The down pains are there to transport the child into the correct position.It is a slight, rhythmic tension (contraction) of the muscles of the uterus. This tension of the musculature then leads to pain in the lower abdomen, back and thighs during the contractions.

In addition, a feeling of pressure in the area of the bladder may occur, as the child now lies more in the small pelvis, thus constricting the bladder. The intensity of the pain of down pains is different for every woman. With the first child, the pain is usually more intense. Mothers who have already given birth to several children often perceive the pain of the down pains only slightly. Since particularly painful sink pains are often indistinguishable from real contractions, it is important that the woman contacts a doctor or her midwife.