Pregnancy Mistakes You Can Make During Labor

Don't concentrate too much on the first signs of labor. This is only going to stress you out, getting you all frazzled and you might end up getting to the hospital too early. Obviously you want to make sure you get to the delivery room on time but labor can actually progress more productively and quickly if you stay at home until contractions are more frequent and regular. Moving around in your own familiar place can help things progress nicely.

False labor pains are quite common as well, and if you pay too much attention to them, you might be convinced about a dozen times that you're in active labor. Take a deep breath, if you think the contractions are coming at a regular pace, time them, and relax. Call your doctor if you have any questions or think you might be going into the 'real thing'. Don't diagnose yourself to be in labor and start practicing techniques you may have learned. If you can ignore the contractions, do so. When they're the real thing, you'll know and you definitely won't be able to disregard them.

Make sure you rest when you're supposed to. If you're nearing your due date, don't sit up all night waiting for labor to strike. Make sure you get as much rest as you possibly can, and stay on schedule as much as possible. You'll need your rest, especially if you experience a longer labor. Some mom's to be get excited at the first contraction and want to stay up and experience each one. You won't miss out on the birth of your child, so missing a few hours of mild contractions is no big deal.

Depending on your medical situation you may be advised not to eat when you go into active labor. The reasons for this typically have to do with the medication you are administered during your labor and possible interactions that could occur. However, if you're still at home and you're hungry feel free to eat something nourishing that will give you energy for the delivery ahead. Some doctors will even approve you to eat once you have arrived at the hospital depending on how far you have progressed when you arrive. Staying hydrated and fueled is actually a much better idea than feeling weak, hungry, and dehydrated.