Labor EEEz (1/3 oz)

Once your cervix is fully dilated, the work of the second stage of labor begins: the final descent and birth of your baby. At this time start applying Labor EEEz. At the beginning of the second stage, your contractions may be a little further apart, giving you the chance for a much-needed rest between them. Many women find their contractions in the second stage easier to handle than the contractions in active labor because bearing down offers some relief. Others don't like the sensation of pushing. The descent of the baby may be rapid or, especially if this is your first baby, gradual. With each contraction, the force of your uterus -- combined with the force of your abdominal muscles if you're actively pushing -- exerts pressure on your baby to continue to move down through the birth canal. When a contraction is over and your uterus is relaxed, your baby's head will recede slightly in a "two steps forward, one step back" kind of progression. Try different positions for pushing until you find one that feels right and is effective for you. It's not unusual to use a variety of positions during the second stage. Keep using Labor EEEz. It will make the contractions more effective and will shorten the time you need to be in labor.