What Really Happens To Your Body When Labor Begins

When labor begins, the body shifts into a powerful, orchestrated process with a rhythm set by the contractions. At Our Birthing Center in NJ, we celebrate natural birth and support you through the journey with this embodied wisdom in mind. 

And what is the magical ingredient that begins this journey to a joy like no other? Oxytocin. This hormone is released in pulses and triggers uterine contractions while enhancing bonding and milk flow.

Awakening the Contraction Cascade

Labor typically begins with subtle changes: Braxton Hicks tapering off, “lightening” as the baby descends and maybe the mucus plug budding loose. 

What signals the true start? Hormonal orchestration. Rising prostaglandins soften and dilate the cervix while oxytocin pulses increase regularly. Pressure from the baby’s head against the cervix stimulates the Ferguson reflex: more oxytocin, stronger contractions, and gradual progress.

What Moms Feel and Why

Early labor often brings mild cramps or menstrual-style aches. As the cervix dilates, contractions grow stronger, longer, and closer together. These uterine contractions are the uterus tightening and relaxing, essentially pushing the baby downward. 

Pain levels and sensations vary, and each phase may shift from manageable discomfort into more intense pressure, especially in your lower back.

Hormones that Move the Process

Oxytocin drives contraction waves and fosters emotional bonding and peace, but when stress spikes, adrenaline levels can disrupt this flow. That’s why Our Birthing Center in NJ designed spa-like private rooms to reduce stress and a soothing environment for natural births. 

Endorphins, which are nature's miraculous pain relievers, kick in during contractions, helping mothers-to-be find rhythm and even euphoria.

Physical Changes Stage by Stage

First Stage (Latent to Active): The cervix moves from 0 to full dilation (10 cm). During the latent phase, contractions are irregular and mild. In the active phase, they intensify and cause steady cervical progress.

Second Stage: Once dilation is complete, the body may enter a passive phase before active pushing begins, supported by hormones and maternal effort.

Third Stage: After the wonderful moment when your baby is born, continued oxytocin release helps the placenta detach and controls postpartum bleeding.

Why Relaxation Matters

Stress disrupts hormonal flow. Anxiety or bright lights can trigger a fight-or-flight response, inhibiting oxytocin and slowing labor. That’s why breathing techniques, movement, warm showers or tubs, and a calm atmosphere are essential tools, especially in a natural birth setting.

These non-drug supports empower moms like you to tap into the essence of labor and work with it as it unfolds at its own pace.

Supporting Your Natural Birth 

The body’s design for birth is intricate and intuitive. When stress is minimized and support is abundant, labor often progresses smoothly. With credentialed midwives providing continuous care in serene spaces, moms are encouraged to make themselves comfortable: snack, hydrate, move freely and find what helps them surrender to each wave.

Book a visit at Our Birthing Center in NJ and prepare yourself for natural birth with wisdom, trusted care and nurturing support.