Dilation Isn't EVERYTHING! SIX Ways to PROGRESS THROUGH LABOR | How the Body Works During Labor

6 Ways to Progress through Labor
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What if I’m not DILATING? In this video, you’ll learn why cervical dilation is an important step in labor progress, but why it’s not the ONLY step in the labor and delivery of your baby. You’ll learn about effacement, stations during labor, what happens during the pushing stage, and the course that a normal labor and delivery needs to take.
Sometimes it can be discouraging to be told you’re not progressing through the stages of labor, but it’s important to know that while you may not be progressing in one way, you can be making progress in another way. One of the benefits of trying to labor at home before hospital labor, is that you’re not being checked on and assessed so often, and your body is able to steadily work through the stages and phases of labor unobserved.
This video explains how to progress in labor in SIX ways, and knowing what happens in labor with your body and baby will help you stay confident in how the body works during labor. Normal labor can be a long process because of the six big changes your body and baby has to make for a normal vaginal birth to happen. TIME IS YOUR FRIEND!
I hope this video helps you feel encouraged as you learn to trust in the process of how a baby is born from your womb to this world. Whether you’re planning a natural birth or medicated birth, this video will help you understand how incredible your body and baby are when it comes to birth.
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DISCLAIMER
All content and information in this video is for informational and educational purposes only, does not constitute medical, psychological or health advice of any kind and I do not warrant that the information presented herein is free of any errors or omissions. I am not providing medical, health care, nutrition therapy or coaching services to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any kind of physical ailment, mental or medical condition.
Although I strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for any kind of professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in the medical and health area for your particular needs and circumstances prior to making any medical or health related decisions. For your health related questions, please seek the advice of a licensed physician or any other qualified health care provider immediately.
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I am a Lamaze certified Childbirth Educator and a DONA certified Birth Doula in the San Francisco Bay Area! For more information and resources, come find me at builttobirth.com
#BuiltToBirth

[@mkurylowski]

Im a husband watching and learning to know more about supporting my wife. Your videos have been very helpful- thank you.

[@rajiabegum1338]

. Jloopllpppu rwa scxssgbpolmmmlllll

[@chialara5302]

Good on you papa bear!

[@mackenzieavery8979]

Every woman’s dream husband haha

[@myracook3246]

You just one upped every dad in the world! Great job being a good daddy❤️

[@brotherjames5568]

I am also

[@adararelgnel2695]

I was concerned because i didnt see any mucus plug or any dilation and was 40 weeks and getting desperate. In the end, everything happened within 5 hours. Very mild contractions, plug came out, dilation, contractions, no idea how dilated I was but my body started pushing, water broke, baby came out. Midwife barely made it to the home birth. I had NO warnings!

[@NileGoddess]

That’s a blessing

[@mailboxxy]

Damn sounds like this might happen to me then...

[@gabbi510]

I want this to happen to me 😭 I’m 5cm and 70% effaced and no contractions 😩😭😭😭

[@mailboxxy]

@@gabbi510 Try coconut rolled dates, and drink pineapple juice, start doing light yoga and I swear you'll go into labor within 2 days, maybe even 24 hrs. I went into labor 2 days after eating these every morning and drinking coconut pineapple juice. I was 40 weeks 1 day when I went into labor. Of course I got no sleep that night haha. I was only 2cm dilated and 0% effaced and I hadn't lost my mucus plug until that morning I went into the hospital at 6am and found out i was then 5cm dilated 50% effaced, that was only 2 days later after going in being at 0%. Things will happen quickly when it's time!

[@LLAML]

Father, may mine be as such in Yeshua's name.

[@alicialong3866]

So encouraging. 39 weeks pregnant and came home from the doc crying because I’m not dilated yet. I’ve been throwing up every day since week 9 and I just want to see the light at the end of the tunnel. This video gave me JUST THAT. Thank you!

[@jasminehelena4929]

Alicia Long I'm 39 weeks today and had this same let down at my appointment 😭 Its a sucky feeling, I really hope this video helps me out like you!

[@iqranawaz3899]

Same here

[@raihabatool1457]

L

[@luciemondieujemenfous3594]

You reminded me over a year ago. Wasn't dilated at all, and couldn't even get a sweeping because of that (to induce labour more naturally than with hormones). Cried so much that evening. Had an appointment less than 3 days later for an induction with hormones. But thank God, I had my daughter 2 days after, just a couple of hours away from being induced.

[@axmaciel7]

@@luciemondieujemenfous3594 wait why weren’t you able to get a membrane sweep??

[@shareethequeen]

Definitely don’t be discouraged, I went from 1 cm to having a baby in a 48 hour timeframe! Almost there mommas!

[@LCSDarkAngel2006]

I went from not dialated to also having my son in a 48 hr timeframe!

[@twinkitten1]

I went from a closed to barely 1cm at 8am oct 18th to 10cm fully effaced and ready to push at 4:30 am oct 19th, baby born at 5:15 am oct 19th..

[@amajadah8936]

This makes me happy I’m 38 weeks. I’m so excited. 🥰

[@DEFW21]

1. Ripening of cervix 2. Position of cervix 3. Effacement 4. Dilation 5. Cardinal Movements 6. Station

[@2davivadiva]

This is important to talk about because docs will use this as an excuse to say “failure to progress” and then you’re on the route to a c section

[@AC-iw5mv]

100

[@cseghiri]

Yup that’s what happened to me and it’s still a painful memory to this day 😢

[@iamwhoyousayiam6773]

@@cseghiri Don't let it matter to you that much! You got what matters; the baby!

[@bigal5778]

I'm on my third pregnancy. For my first two home births I didn't want to know my dilation. This really helped me. I also didn't watch the clock. Others will do that for you, you don't have to. I found it helpful to just be present and take each contraction by itself. Know yourself and what will help you stay in the game mentally. I plan to do the same thing this time and add some great breathing and relaxation techniques I'm learning on this channel.

[@stephanieandersen462]

Great tip

[@acg3042]

Great advice! Focusing on only the current contraction (not thinking about the next) is the only advice from my nurse midwife that got me through my first labor naturally. The pushing was the best part.

[@livebygodscommands7613]

as a mother of many I can attest @Big Al you are completely correct,... with a healthy pregnancy, and baby doing well in labor all anyone needs to know is im pushing its time to come and catch the baby

[@valeriya105]

I did the same thing, and I noticed I lost complete track of time! One hour felt like 5 minutes.

[@shannonfreeman4753]

.........I no longer can focus on the video, she said chocolate chip banana bread. Now my 24 week pregnant butt wants it 🤣

[@sarahs3988]

Dialation has meant nothing in my pregnancies and births. With my second child I was 4-5 cm for weeks before my son came 9 days past his due date. With my 4th I went into labor a day early when I wasn't quite 1 cm dialated. In labor on my last couple babies I felt defeated as they checked me and I had hardly progressed but was suffering transition like contractions being around a 4, but baby was born 30 min- 1 hour later in each one. I learned that I can trust my body by it's pain, and don't need to focus on dialation, as it can change quickly.

[@SageIsabella]

I feel so disappointed by the healthcare system and birthing mothers. Each one of my pregnancies I was not given the time or opportunity to even TRY to deliver my babies. My last pregnancy, my daughter wanted to go transverse (sideways) and it was at that point that the doctor said “C-Section!!” I was in so much pain I just went with it. But I was so disappointed that they didn’t try to encourage me to keep going. They went immediately to the most convenient for them. And I let them do it!! This time, I want to make sure I have every opportunity to really try to birth my baby the way my body was designed to do. No more c-sections! Please wish me luck 💕😎

[@SL-dp5xb]

I loved this video, especially the description of baby's movements. It makes it feel like a team effort and connects me to the baby more. Anxiety can happen more when we are in our own heads or only thinking of ourselves. Thinking of the baby's journey, as well as our own experience, is better. I'm almost 39 weeks... ready to meet my daughter.

[@anonymouscriminal5632]

I cant believe I made it to full dilation at home before rushing to hospital with my first.

[@ebonydavenport5037]

I’m so glad I found your channel, I feel like you’ve been my virtual doula during the pandemic lol. Love your content. Thanks for helping make me feel comfortable and confident going into birth (currently 36W6D).

[@LoveForbidden0]

Heeeyy just wanted to thank you for your videos! Im almost 35 weeks and i just feel so lucky to have found you during this beautiful journey in my life 💗 you make me feel so positive and relaxed about everything 🥰🙏🏼

[@sevalakyol3755]

Milayni Wever absolutely agreed

[@BridgetTeyler]

You're so close to meeting your baby! You are, indeed on a beautiful journey and I'm so thankful to be a small part of it!

[@LoveForbidden0]

@@BridgetTeyler

[@princesskashish7385]

I think we are on the same Edd:)

[@anarchist_parable]

Squeezing that balloon gave me so much anxiety

[@naurozejaved3415]

Lol

[@agnieszkamravinec8514]

Me too

[@revoltangel]

Lol I was tensing up worried it would pop

[@micateasdale8776]

Same 😭

[@ravenmill1784]

Very informative thank you Bridget! First time mom during this COVID madness is so stressful you have been immensely helpful and made me confident in my body to be able to stay somewhat calm in my 9th month of pregnancy. Thank you so much!!!! 💞💕💗

[@minitac6236]

Congratulations! Make sure you look at her breathing techniques video,which will come in handy whn having contractions. If possible labor at home to spend less time in hospital. You got this!

[@LCSDarkAngel2006]

I paced around the entire time until I couldn’t anymore. :) Labored mostly hours at home and a little more at the hospital. No epidural or medication. Thank you, Bridget for your guidance! I sure hope my second experience is just as easy and wonderful!

[@georgie.rebecca]

The balloon demonstration was helpful, but it made me so tense. I kept waiting for the balloon to pop😬 Overall very informative video ❤️❤️

[@sabrinaberryman2948]

I feel like I should pay you, I have learned everything from your channel and have no need for a doula 😂 thank you

[@adriannegonzalez3277]

If you watch her videos all the way through and don’t skip ads you are paying her basically 😂

[@vailismyname]

Touche

[@lavender1604]

With my son my water broke on it’s own at 35 weeks, just days before 36. When I went in i was only dilated to a 2 with no contractions. We waited some time and still no progress was happening, I ended up having pitocin. I labored for 15-16 hours (pushed for 45 minutes). My doctor at some point started saying my son was stressed and if he didn’t come soon we would have to do a c-section. Every time I contracted my sons heart rate would drop. Thank goodness I dilated from a 7-8 to a 10 quickly and I had him epidural free! I am now 6 years later due with rainbow baby boy #2 and plan on having another natural labor but feeling nervous with how it went with my son, especially during this pandemic. Trying to move my mind into a positive state and give myself some knowledge so I can voice more things I wish I had before.

[@Tpoppss]

I’m being induced tomorrow! I am 41 weeks and 2 days into my first pregnancy. I am not dilated whatsoever, and am praying my body knows what to do. Can’t wait to hold my sweet baby soon.

[@Joraelfa]

How did it go? ❤️❤️

[@oatmealbrownie09]

This is great information. The effacement demonstration was really helpful. I was having trouble visualizing what was happening.

[@Ama.921]

1. Ripening of cervix 2. Position of cervix (posterior to anterior position) 3. Effacement (thinness and shortness of cervix) 4. Dilation (1-10cm) 5. Cardinal movements (babies positions during labor/birth) 6. Station of baby (descend of baby -4 to +4 through pelvis)

[@Angel_art-entertainment]

You’re awesome!! Expecting my 7th baby and I’ve learned so much from you 🥰 God bless you

[@courtneybell2091]

Question. I’m hoping for a vbac after a traumatic and unnecessary csection the first time around. All my research is leading me to believe cervical checks don’t serve much of a purpose at all, and encourage women to actually decline them until you’re in active labor (and even then limit them) Curious your thoughts on this

[@AdoSoulMusic]

My research has led me to agree with no cervical checks at all! We were created with the fight or flight response which this can trigger and stress body out. Let baby come into this world the way God intended :)

[@ariebeston187]

I personally don’t mind the cervical checks. But I hear a lot of women finding them personally unnecessary. I’m a first time mom, 39 weeks and they just ease my mind to know that I’m progressing in one way or the other and that my body can and will get through this. 💜

[@Rkaysmith3]

Cringed when I saw you blow up the balloon. I had a balloon dilation to get me from 1 to 4cm with no epidural. I don’t think I’ll ever look at a balloon the same!😂

[@sydneygraham8190]

I’m 0cm dilated , with soft cervix and my cervix is anterior . My induction is in 1 week 4 days where I’ll be 39 weeks 4 days , I’m terrified .

[@BridgetTeyler]

You got this, Mama! Things can start happening quickly, so it's okay that you're exactly where you're at right now :) Try to do some deep relaxation- destressing your mind helps your body to let go so much!

[@Mrs.J.D.B]

Bouncing on my birth ball watching this and had to stop while watching her push on the balloon. I thought for sure it was going to POP! haha

[@daniellevilloria227]

This was a great video! I have heard about these things individually but never in conjunction to each other. Thank you for painting a clearer picture of all the moving parts and pieces during the birthing process!

[@jessicaecheverria-ramos7830]

I'm watching this right now. I'm getting induced today Dec 2 at 8 pm.. oh boy..

[@elcapitanmorgan556]

Jessica Echeverria-Ramos why are they inducing you ?

[@ahnafahmad8637]

Today is dec 2👀

[@juleselaine9968]

Good luck!!!!! Happy healthy baby!!!! My baby comes May 2020.... I can’t wait 😍❤️

[@mominahabib204]

May God bless you

[@BridgetTeyler]

Good luck, Mama! You're going to meet your baby so soon- trust the process 💕

[@nancyfonsecamartinez4684]

Love your videos! I delivered my first baby 2.5 years ago that sadly ended in a cesarean due to no progress. I dialed to 10cm and pushed for 4 hours and baby was not crowning. I am now pregnant with my second baby and I was looking forward to trying a vaginal delivery again but doctors is discouraging me from it saying I have a small pelvis. Any advice? I would really like to try again since my recovery for the c-section was a nightmare.

[@hannahmoore8359]

I’m currently 38 weeks pregnant and have been dilated at 2 cm since 36 weeks. I had a natural delivery with my son, but have been nervous for some reason with baby #2. I don’t know why because honestly it was everything I hoped it would be with my son. I guess I’m scared I won’t be so lucky this time! But, your videos are so helpful in calming me and reminding me that I can do this again.

[@jackiesinger9932]

Good luck mama!! I had a natural birth with my son too, not by choice, I got to the hospital at 7cm dilated and 100% effaced and had him within an hour of arriving at the hospital so it was super quick. My daughter, I had her within 3.5hrs of arriving at the hospital but I was only 4cm and 60% effaced when I got there. My doctor talked me into getting an epidural so I did, but I had her about 30 min after it was placed and it didn't even work. The only thing it numbed was my left butt cheek and the back of my left leg so I felt everything and I was so upset that I listened to the Dr because I STILL have pain in the epidural spot 3.5yrs later (the nurses didn't tell the anesthesiologist I have scoliosis so he got it halfway in and had to take it out and redo it) and the damn thing didn't even work :(. I'm 31 weeks today with baby #3 and I'm really hoping for a birth like my 1st and not like my 2nd. Good luck and wishing you a safe and quick delivery with a happy, healthy mom and baby 💜

[@halirhoads9326]

I went to the hospital 3 times because my contractions were very painful 5 min apart and 45 sec long. I am 4cm dilated 80% effaced -2. I’ve been contracting for almost 4 days now. My contractions today are 7min apart lasting over a minute long and every time I get checked I’m not progressing. I can’t stand the pain anymore. It’s so exhausting what should I do?

[@lekshmisnair6417]

Hi there..... Please make a video about constipation during pregnancy and after delivery.

[@haleymoon657]

I had preterm labor at 33/34 weeks which they were able to stop thankfully but now I’m almost 42 weeks and not progressing at ALL. I’m 2-3 cm dilated and 70% effaced just like I was 6 ish weeks ago:( now they have me scheduled for a c section this next week and it’s just not how I pictured any of it going. I’ve tried everything to progress things but it’s just not happening

[@alnicolex]

I am SO THANKFUL for your videos. My OBGYN hardly explains anything or tells me many measurements, even with me being at 39 weeks. I am not dilated, but my cervix has softened. All she told me was “Well, if he isn’t here by then, you’ll come in Monday at 6am to be induced.” And then just moved on to her next patient. So frustrating!!

[@fantasyfan8788]

Line

[@fantasyfan8788]

I don't understand? Why are you being induced without any medical reason. 39 weeks is still quite early, 38 weeks till 42 weeks is considered normal full term births. Inductions are extra painful and can lead to epidurals and c-sections. No one know what triggers labour but one theory is that it is by hormones secreted by the babies matured lungs. Early inductions can lead to asthma and lung problems down the line. Is it an American thing. Its seems like a money making scheme by health providers.

[@vailismyname]

Ding ding ding. You are bang on the money.

[@NileGoddess]

It’s sad how they don’t care n push C-section on pregnant moms faces

[@glymandane-ballesteros]

Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful information! I'm 39 weeks pregnant with my first baby. Last week we rushed to the hospital because of spotting during the night. The nurses told us that it was normal because of cervical examination. We thought that the baby will come out already because my Doctor informed us that I'm 2cm dilating already. Until now, we are still waiting. Since no one in our home had an experience with labor and delivery, we try to be alert always. I'm glad I stumble on your channel which is very helpful to prepare me with childbirth. I found some answers to my questions. It also helps me eliminate fear and replace it with excitement. It helps me trust the process. God bless you!

[@adymolina8831]

I am day 4 over my due date. I've been watching every video I can in the mean time since the pandemic has prevented us from attending birthing classes. I know there's no such thing as a "late" baby and he will come when he is ready but I'm just ready to hold my little one. I've been walking like crazy and using my birthing ball as much as possible. Thank you for this explanation. It's helping me understand why he might need more time. You are the best.

[@tubularmouse03]

I’m 4cm dilated at 38weeks 6 days. 😒 no contractions or pain..

[@tubularmouse03]

Next day I gave birth @ 39 weeks

[@AnaR-r2y]

Mee too I am exactly 38 weeks and 6 days today with 4 cm dilated. I have been having contractions for the past days but they will stop. I went to labor and delivery and they sent me home cause my contractions were not too close together. Did you do anything else to increase contractions and start labor. I am so over it. I went with the most hard cramps pain that I ever had but once I was at the hospital they stopped. Don’t know what to do.

[@Rachel-dx8nc]

I love your videos! I am 34 weeks & enjoy listening to your videos while I am at work. I am trying to be as educated as possible & listening to you really has helped me learn more & help ease some of my fears about birth. Thank you for providing these! Especially on KZbin for free. It is wonderful for those us us that can not afford to take classes or pay for a Doula.

[@rjmariano4925]

I just had my baby July 3rd 2021 and I was watching your videos since my 2nd trimester and literally your videos helped me go through a normal vaginal delivery💖🙏🏽

[@flowergirl3728]

Can you please tell more! How easy/difficult it was? Im due in a few months and first time for me. I really realllyyy want a natural vaginal birth. Pls share!

[@mariahkristinerealtor]

Your videos make me feel sooo much better & actually excited about birth, thank you so much for sharing 😍

[@MrLorenzoe]

About to take NCLEX and end up here! Thanks for the explanations it really helps.

[@lyss222]

When my water broke a d I arrived at the hospital I was 4cm and 50% effaced. I had irregular contractions and my doctor assured me I was in the latent stage of labor and they would eventually pick up. After about 6 hours the contractions started getting a good deal stronger. They checked me again and my doctor said "OK I don't want you to be disappointed but you're still 4cm. But you're almost fully effaced and your cervix has moved forward." I was like "yay that's progress!" Gotta thin out before it can really open! It took about 4 hours to go from that point to pushing baby out!

[@casey848]

Thank you so much for this video. I am 38 weeks along and have an irritable uterus. It feels like I am always in labor when I am not. I keep hoping they are true labor contractions but this video made me realize maybe everything is not in line yet and it is okay to wait. Thank you!!

[@DorothyBukikun]

Same happening to me at 37 weeks

[@the_corinthians_twelve_teacher]

I am 24 weeks right now and your videos are making me SO HAPPY and excited for my baby to be born! I am a Christian and believe Holy Spirit has a lot to do with helping me, mixed with God's already AMAZING design He put within me using teamwork on giving birth! Having Jesus makes a HUGE difference in my outlook on my first child. I'm so so excited. I know it's going to be a new triumph to have in my life and all the moms who have made it through birth encourage me as well. WOMEN ARE SO AWESOMELY DESIGNED ❤🙏🏼♥️🙏🏼♥️

[@verilyisayuntoyou4329]

There is a Christian hypnobirthing app which I’ve heard is good! I’m currently only 5 weeks with baby number 3 and hoping for a vbac as I never had the unmediated natural birth I hoped for. Hope all goes well x

[@homegrownlearningandliving]

I always turn down dilation checks through end of pregnancy and during labor, no need for me to even know

[@joshuaheart8908]

I’m a Dad watching this ❤️🙌🏾💯

[@micateasdale8776]

Very informative video i didn't really know about any of this 😱 (I'm 39+5) I feel like this was extremely important for me to know!

[@divinelov3777]

I’m due with my second early March, having a home birth so these videos are amazing for me right now

[@gabriellefaith7202]

I’m 37 weeks today and Your videos are helping ease my fears

[@RomanaComelyOfficial]

Bridget, in what mood is the baby during the labour? Is it a kind of a sleepy mood or is he or she kind of meditating and focuses to get out or is he or she fully alert and waiting for the uterus to slide them out? Do we even know something like this? I'm wondering☺️ I love your videos, please keep making them. They are VERY helpful. I am an analytic mind so I like to know things in details to know what's happening, to be able focus on my part of a job, do it effectively and not wonder what the baby does, how do I look like down there, what is behind me, what is in front of me. It's really good to know what's happening and you do it in a really understandable way. I love to be prepared and you really give me the possibility to be prepared, so thank you a lot🙏🏼

[@NileGoddess]

I wish someone answered

[@nat4465]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I’m trying to keep calm about my progression, I’m only 39 weeks but I don’t want to stress about dilation. I have been having irregular cramping (or contractions) losing mucous plug I think here and there but nothing strong yet which I was hoping for.. it calmed me down to know there are other ways my body is progressing. Let’s see how it goes, this is my fourth baby and each experience has been so different so it’s hard to tell but I trust God that all will be just fine. 😊

[@autumnmoon6536]

This made me feel so much better 💜 At my 38 week 5 day appointment, I was still only 1cm dilated but my cervix is in an anterior position, I’m 75% effaced and baby is between a -2 and -1 station. Hopefully labor starts soon! Can’t wait to meet our little one 🤰Thank you for this!

[@lizetteaguirre5863]

I just had an appointment and my doctor checked me to see how far I was dilated . I’m 38 weeks and I am not dilated at all . He made me feel very discouraged and said that I wasn’t working hard enough to dilate. I walk about 20-30 minutes almost every day and do exercises as often as I can but it doesn’t seem to have done much .

[@Medaya14]

I'm so sorry someone had to make you feel this way, especially before you were going to need all the strength and confidence you can get - to get through labor and delivery when the time did come. Unfortunately though, in my time spent looking into labor and delivery there really is little you can actually do to get the baby in the "correct position" or here any quicker. In a literal sense, there is nothing you can do to 100% facilitate your body to go into labor on your own, and even methods like inductions in the hospital are not even 100% guaranteed to work. And actually it is fairly common for that to take place, along with even epidurals to not work. The body is such a fascinating thing, and your body and the baby are going to do as they need and want. Actually I've learned that it's the baby that will actually trigger your body to go into labor by releasing a hormone that encourages the entire process along. So even with that in mind alone, that should be enough to help get the point across that again - there's really nothing you could be doing wrong. In fact it is better for you to have been resting and not focused on trying to initiate labor, because the more you relax the more the baby relaxes and you have a higher chance of the baby and your body to be able to release that oxytocin and really be able to get labor started when those hormones hit. Interesting stuff! I just wish doctors were more transparent about the entire process and didnt put personal opinions or baseless information out there for mama's to worry about. At the end of the day we stress and worry about so much and it's not fair to add another thing to that plate. I hope your labor and delivery went well, and that you are enjoying your time with your little one!

[@hakib.]

due date feb 4. iwas 2 cm last week. this week is just 3 cm. i just want her out. we are very excited already. i dunno when isnshe coming out.

[@Foot_Ankle_Lady]

Hi...i just had a membrane sweep today.im exactly 37 weeks and this decision was because my placenta is very calcified. What can i do facilitate labour after a sweep? Thanks.

[@sarahiridescent5017]

That's what I want to know. I had my sweep today at 39 weeks 4 days. I'm also 2cm dilated so I really want to know how to kickstart things

[@Lifeszebarbie]

How did you find out the placenta was calcified??

[@carmelapring8617]

I'm stock at 2cm since last 3 weeks, been eating pineapple since my 37 weeks. My due date is 7/30. This video is very helpful for me. I just keep myself calm and do exercises to dilate fast. Wish me luck to have a safe normal delivery. Trying VBAC. Hope your info can work for me.

[@mollyfreeman1674]

Were you able to do your vacation? Hope so!!

[@raznabegum3576]

While you were at 2cm were you having contractions

[@sonesthajonck6430]

36 weeks. This is so educational. Thank you for sharing your knowledge

[@wendyhughes2234]

Thank you so much for this vital information! I had cesareans with my two sons- (turning 15 years old and 11 years old, respectively). It turned out that my son, Gregory- came two weeks earlier than the professionals thought. On the day before Gregory was born, I had a visit with my dr. She put me on a fetal monitor and made a comment that I was having Braxton hicks contractions. When we got home I did start to feel that more. By about 1:00 am it looked as though my water was trying to break. But his head blocked the opening so that it stopped any more leakage. I didn't feel equipped (psychologically ready/psyched up to go through regular labor. I had two brain surgeries when I was 17 years old, so my original OBGYN didn't think it would be safe to go through regular labor. But this time I would really like to have a water birth. And- quite frankly- I don't trust the mainstream health system with a certain thing that they are pushing on people- even/especially the most vulnerable. Thank you for this video.

[@revoltangel]

That’s a really cool demo with the balloon !!!

[@rubyang06]

how can you move your posterior cervix to anterior? any tips?

[@LadyElfTari]

39+4 weeks, one day past my "official" due date and definitely feeling anxious and frustrated about not starting. Was 3.5 cm at last Monday's appointment and I think I lost the last of my mucus plug + the bloody show yesterday but no labor yet aside from the sporadic contraction here and there. Some cramping. I'm really hoping to be done soon but I know I can't push things. Luckily my obgyn has been pretty hands off and isn't going to induce me if I don't have to be induced. But it's hard not to be ansty. Thanks for the clear and detailed information.

[@elizabethbrink476]

No cervical exams. The ob sticks their fingers in there blindly and could rupture your bag of water. Surprised she suggested this.

[@mariams6876]

Who else was nervous that the balloon will pop 😅

[@rachaelepperson5537]

Can you make a video about feeling the urge to push before being fully dilated and what to do? I hemorrhaged with my first and want to do a better job with my second. Thank you for your awesome videos!!

[@verygoodwolf]

I have been 100% effaced for over a week now and 4cm dilated. Baby is still too high to start labor. I'm being induced tomorrow and I'm nervous - hoping that progression is without a hitch.

[@crunchyasmrgal4371]

What was it like ? 👍

[@mariaFlorezskulllover]

At 37 weeks and 5 days i was told i was effaced 70% and dilated to a 2 , have had a bunch of pressure over the past days been loosing my mucus plug by bits and my stomach dropped! 38 weeks now and no consistent contractions 😩 it’s frustrating that it still can be days till birth 😩😩😩

[@seizuregirlllll]

I’m 40 weeks in 2 days and nothing. Occasionally contractions but it all just goes away

[@auroraliu2541]

My husband and I LOVE all Bridget's videos! She makes these valuable knowledge so easy to digest! I feel empowered, thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@faryalsaleem4662]

Much much much love bridget. If it hadn't been your videos I would've collapsed and given up during labor All I remembered were your breathing techniques and tips. They made it so easy for me to go on without medication. God bless you. I had my baby girl 2 days back. She's healthy and am doing good💕 am a first time mom and my labor starting from 1 cm dilation till birth was shortened to 6 to 7 hours in total with your informative videos that I followed during pregnancy especially the exercises during pregnancy and active labor. Good luck with everything 😍🥰

[@jessicarae1924]

My cervix was up and behind my babies head for 40+ weeks and through quiet a few hours of back labor, it lowered and opened up all the way within 5 hours and baby popped out shortly after.

[@kyndalgarrett3175]

You say dilation isn’t everything but at my hospital IT IS. that’s ALL they care about here. I’m stuck at 4 cm and they won’t keep me and help induce me.

[@rananawito3526]

I have GD and I’m so scared that they won’t give me a chance to give birth naturally and they’ll push me to do a c section faster than other women without GD :(

[@Medaya14]

I read this earlier today, as I'm getting an induction tomorrow - I've been watching a lot of videos and reading a ton. A doctor has said something along the lines of "express your concerns, repeat them, yell them, request a new doctor or nurse, MAKE THEM hear you. No one is going to be a bigger advocate for you than YOU." That hit me so hard as I have general fears and extreme trust issues with doctors, but after reading I realized that doctor is right. We have more power than we realize and along with that we do have a say in what happens and when (of course unless you or the baby are in real tangible danger). Just remember your wants and needs, flex and flow throughout the process of course but remember that this is YOUR birthing experience and you have every right to try and get the care you deserve.

[@OK-kf7bf]

Im 39weeks 4cm dilated and no contractions as of right now 😩 , I got sent home yesterday bc apparently my contractions weren’t strong enough....

[@AnaR-r2y]

Same here 😫 what happened? How long before you have the baby? I was sent home too with 4 cm dilated at 39 weeks... I am so over it and don’t know what to do. Any advices?

[@OK-kf7bf]

@@AnaR-r2y I ended up getting induced a few days later, I really wanted my doctor to delivery my baby and since we were a few days away from Christmas she was going on vacation and coming back after New Years.

[@OK-kf7bf]

@@AnaR-r2y honestly just wait it out until baby is ready, I know you are tired and eagerly waiting for baby to come but just wait. I wished I would’ve waited until my water broke or until I actually started to feel contractions. I feel like I cheated getting induced lol if that makes sense

[@AnaR-r2y]

@@OK-kf7bf I totally understand you I was induced with first baby not fun at all but I never had contrations or menstrual like cramps with first one. Since baby #2 is keeping me with the worst menstrual like cramps I do not know what to do lolz. Thanks you for responding 😉

[@OK-kf7bf]

@@AnaR-r2y same here ! That’s so crazy, the cramps were horrible for sure ! If you have a heating pad I recommend you use it on your lower back ! It helps a ton !

[@alyupde9337]

Hey I’m three out of four! All but dilation. Hopefully this will be over soon! -39 weeks with irregular contractions for weeks

[@EvakarenMuriithi]

This is perfect💛💛🇰🇪🇰🇪

[@winglesswanderer9667]

I feel so thankful that I found your channel, Bridget❤ Just watching your videos bring so much of calmness and reduce my stress. I'm almost 37 weeks and was anxious because of the pandemic but now, I'm quite confident thanks to you!! God bless you😇😇 Will recommend your channel to anyone and everyone who is pregnant that I know😁

[@deca_meditation]

Such a complicated process can't be improved with interventions... Still, all of this sounds pretty scary both to me and my husband. Oh gee XD

[@kailebrogan447]

the waiting game is very real right now

[@jasminkelley934]

do you have the ring of fire the entire time the baby is crowning??

[@oliverandamms738]

1:25 @1.5x speed you're welcome

[@jackiesinger9932]

I am so so glad I found your channel a couple months ago! Your videos are so informative and reassuring, and your voice is so calming to listen to. I've been binge watching your videos and have even watched a few multiple times lol. I'm 31 weeks today with baby #3 and I'm more nervous this time than I was with either of my other births 😬. I wish you were in my area because I would love to have you for a Doula, but unfortunately, we are on opposite sides of the United States lol, I'm in Florida. Thanks again for making such great content, can't wait for more videos!

[@carolinebueno9634]

What if at 40 weeks your provider wants to start talking about induction 😢

[@melissaochoa5057]

Due date is tomorrow, so 39 weeks and 6 days today! So I am very happy to see this video because I feel like these last two weeks are never ending, and may need to be induced if he doesn’t want to come on his!

[@BridgetTeyler]

The last few weeks can feel like forever but know that your patience is giving your baby the time they need to do that last bit of crucial development before being ready to face the world!

[@melissaochoa5057]

Bridget Teyler had to come back because the second after I typed this comment my water broke! Still needed pitocin, could not dilate past 9 cm and ended up needing a c-section after 18 hours of hard labor :( Appreciate your videos!

[@summerdayy5849]

week Before last I was 4 centimeters 40% Effaced then 4 in a half centimeters 60 percent effaced. I pray I have my baby tonight or tomorrow.

[@DaughterofKings22]

Thank you so much for your videos.

[@JMUS15]

I thought cervix exams are not really helpful as they only measure at that point in time.

[@phoebecortes5280]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Im on my 6mos and feeling anxious and excited. I found all your videos extremely helpful especially for first time moms. God bless you heart.

[@AhMit-t4s]

Mu baby is posterior positioned does that mean the cervic position is also posterior or anterior?

[@iamnazmakhatun2898]

Thank you so much ❤️ this will be easy to visualise now during my visualisation meditation ❤️❤️

[@chialara5302]

How good is that balloon demo!! Love it thank you x

[@jonesfamilyfarms9325]

I’ve been 50% effaced and 2cm dilated for weeks now. I’ve also has contractions (not Braxton Hicks) for four weeks but haven’t made any progress! I’m 39 weeks tomorrow and so frustrated. This is my second pregnancy and my first came at 37 and 4 days 😭

[@sevalakyol3755]

Thanks a lot! Your videos are really helping me relax more, empowering me with knowledge and making me feel better prepared while gaining dats in hospital. Please keep informing us 🙏 Also, is there anything you can advise for twin pregnancies with a risk of preterm labour? Thanks!

[@BridgetTeyler]

Twin pregnancies usually result in labor that begins early. Focus on the things you can control- your level of activity, nutrition, and stress. Listen to your body as far as activity goes- it's important to not try to push yourself. Eat adequate amounts of foods, especially foods high in healthy fats like avocado, nuts, coconut oil, fish, and eggs- this helps babies to pack on the pounds they need and helps their brain develop. Drink LOTS of water! Dehydration is one of the main causes of preterm labor symptoms. And try to eliminate stress- whether it's work, relationships, about the birth, etc., having a calm sense of mind will greatly impact your body too!

[@sevalakyol3755]

Bridget Teyler thank you ❤️I’m already in complete bed rest by prescription. I’ll eat more of those 🙏 and keep watching your videos ☺️

[@sashabythesea9149]

I didn’t dilate even 1 cm for my last baby 12 years ago, they said my cervix was hard like scar tissue. I’m now 24 weeks pregnant again (11 years later) and interested in anything I can do to soften my cervix toward the end of my pregnancy. I do prenatal yoga and meditation but if there are any specific meditations or anything you can recommend I really would love to have a natural birth this time instead of a c section. I am a prenatal yoga teacher and would love to be able to practice what I preach with the breathing and relaxation techniques for birth. Thank you for your amazing informative videos 😊🙏🌺

[@sashabythesea9149]

So good to hear you say dialation isn’t everything!

[@143CHANTAL]

So informative. Thank you!

[@minatimohanty7153]

Thank you so much for enlighting and empowering me with all these knowledge and information.Love from India

[@francescange-xq6nq]

I wish I would have seen this for my first baby!! The first time my water broke first, then after 24 hours they had to induce. I remember crying my eyes out when after several hours in, after more than one painful pelvic exam because my cervix was still high and posterior, (not to mention I was desperately hungry) they told me I had only dilated from 1 to 1.5 cm 😅😅 if I had known my progress wasn’t hinging on how much I was dilated I may have had a less distressing time 😅 and this is very encouraging now for my third, with whom I hope I can start labor at home! Thank you for all the great info!!

[@eva-mariel9064]

Monday morning I was 1cm dilated and -2 station according to the midwife who checked my cervix. She also noted that my cervix was still long and thick. I kinda took that as some discouraging news but I’m a 1st time mama and have no idea what some of the medical terms mean. Can someone explain?

[@cheyenne5375]

I'm so discouraged, I am 38 weeks and so far no signs. This is suppose to be my vbac...but Doctor is concerned that I'm not going to dialat, again. She tried to do a sweep and couldn't...